Skill set was C++ but also web tech such as React / Angular. Javascript. Current side projects are node/react/flutter.<p>I worked for myself. So I have no current experience. Ordinary employers seem to see this as red flag. No callbacks.<p>Are portfolios still a thing or should I go for non-profits and rebuild a network that way? Portfolios got me work back when I was contracting.<p>How would I transition back in? I'm in 40s.
Look at smaller companies where your "worked for myself" is seen as a plus than a minus at say a larger/corporate company. Smaller company is not always same as startup btw where there is more risk. I run a small company and I could really use entrepreneurial people who couldn't quite do their own thing on their own but would fit in a team where they have plenty of autonomy and decision making capabilities considering they bring the relevant temperament/experience/talent/skills.
I had less trouble back when I was not working for a few years. Switching jobs is a yellow flag in itself. And often people want to hire someone yesterday, so they're not so willing to hire someone who needs a notice period.<p>Portfolios are still useful, but they don't get you past the resume screen, only the latter screening processes.<p>Web tech is in very high demand, so you should have little problem in an average company, at least something better than a non-profit.
> Ordinary employers seem to see this as red flag.<p>Rather than looking for employers — avoid the standard HR trap.<p>Instead, Look for the guy WHO you can best help.<p>LinkedIn is useful here— sort individual profiles by market/Industry/title etc…<p>Companies with fewer than 50 people, usually have easier access to true senior decision-makers. Reach out directly for discovery conversation.
Talk to people you know. The people you worked with. The people you worked for. And anyone who worked for you.<p>Also, contact the alumni organizations of any schools you attended.<p>Put your resume/CV on popular job boards and update your Linkedin so recruiters can find you.<p>Good luck.