What is it with job posters using phrases like “Ninja” or better yet, “Rockstar” to describe their ideal candidate? Why would a software developer ever conjure up these images? Have these job posters ever met a rockstar before? Rockstars sleep all day, and party and play music at night. Ninjas throw stars and use nunchucks. I’m not so sure these are these qualities that software companies are actually looking for in a candidate. So why do they use these ridiculous terms?

In reality, being a software developer means sitting in a chair all day until your back and eyes hurt— a far cry from the stealthiness of being a ninja, or the excitement of being a rockstar. In actuality, what the job poster is actually seeking is a slave — Someone who will crank out an endless list of commands without question or hesitation. As a job seeker, these are the types of companies to be wary of. They are over-glorifying the job, and being over-complimentary to get something from you.

I would much rather work for a company that values my judgement, and encourages me to share my thoughts— not call me a ninja and give me a free slice of pizza and a beer on Friday.