I’ve had the same experience too. A side project is interesting, shows initiative, and if it comes down to you and another otherwise equal candidate - it may w

I’ve had the same experience too. A side project is interesting, shows initiative, and if it comes down to you and another otherwise equal candidate - it may well be the deciding factor in a hiring decision. On top of that, hiring aside: the skills and expertise I’ve gained from a side project have been invaluable, and even for this reason alone I’d say it has been well worth it.