I agree that it shouldn't cost you a job if you don't have side projects. It shouldn't guarantee you a job if you do—like any other demonstration of who you are

I agree that it shouldn't cost you a job if you don't have side projects. It shouldn't guarantee you a job if you do—like any other demonstration of who you are, it should cut both ways. I always ask to see them if someone has them, and it's hurt in about as many cases as it has helped. If you can't program but have some side projects up on github anyway, I will be able to tell.