Too Long; Didn't Read
Darshan Somashekar: Hiring managers often ask developers to list side projects on their resumes. Side projects are great outlets to explore ideas, learn new technologies, and ship products the way I want to, without the need to get team buy-in or corporate approval. The key, however, is not the project, but how you describe it on your resume. Describe your side project in terms that align with the company you’re applying to. For example, a small startup may value independence, creative thinking, and problem solving - all of which you can demonstrate.