I'm a bit incredulous whenever I see the claim that HMs are looking for extensive side-projects because I have quite a few on my github and resume I don't think

I'm a bit incredulous whenever I see the claim that HMs are looking for extensive side-projects because I have quite a few on my github and resume I don't think anyone interviewing me has even looked at them or at least no one has ever asked me anything substantive about any of my projects during an interview. The one exception is the startup that I worked on full-time for a period. I think most HM's look at extensive side-projects as a red flag that you are flighty and unreliable and will be hacking on weekend toys instead of working. Ultimately I think people are just lazy and don't care most of the time. edit: regarding IP assignment agreements - in CA these are unenforceable for anything invented on your own time and equipment, companies still make you sign them because they do need the IP assignment for the stuff you produce on their time which is fine.