I don't mean to exclude the value of language experience, rather point out that just because someone doesn't know C++ doesn't mean they wouldn't be able to cont

I don't mean to exclude the value of language experience, rather point out that just because someone doesn't know C++ doesn't mean they wouldn't be able to contribute to your team. It's more an argument against companies who won't even entertain the idea of hiring someone without X years of experience in a particular language. When it comes down to it, most programming languages are just syntax and patterns. Most intelligent people can pick up on this. The people who are going to contribute the most to your project and company in the long term are those who love what they do and are passionate about doing a good job.