There are plenty of jobs descriptions that ask for examples of open source contributions. In my current job, and every previous one for the last eleven years, the projects I work on are in house, so I have nothing I can show to potential employers. If I had a good SO reputation I would see it as a reasonable alternative to show to potential employers.
(I am working on a side project at the moment mainly to get around the problem I described, but this is taking a whole lot more time than answering a some SO questions.)
> If I had a good SO reputation I would see it as a reasonable alternative to show to potential employers.
I get the sentiment, but it holds little value for me. (I'm in the potential employer category.) I find it pointless as a meter of competency.
> I am working on a side project at the moment mainly to get around the problem I described, but this is taking a whole lot more time than answering a some SO questions.
Think about this comment for a minute. A side project takes longer to complete and requires more discipline and concerted effort. SO questions are quick hits, small scope, and are basically lather-rinse-repeat (find a question, answer it.)
Care to hazard a guess which one of these choices of time I might find more appealing in a candidate?
Better job offers? Or maybe just invisible internet points.