There has been a continuous debate on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) that Github profiles are useless, even with stats, streaks, details,..etc. “Recruiters donot care about your Github profile”.
With all my respect to the developers & seniors out there, I am sorry but I disagree.
So, first of all. What is it.
What is a Github Profile?
Github profiles are just your Github profile. They serve as a profile for your code space on internet, showcasing your work, contributions, and interests.
Why polish your Github profile?
Certain people creates polished GitHub profiles to impress their employers, however I believe that is just scratching the surface as the real value goes much deeper than that.
My perspective
In my view, I see it as a reflection of my journey. The stats, the streaks, the technologies that are mentioned works like achievements. I would allow myself to put them there as long as I have the ability to do it. I find this as an engaging method to push myself to discover more.
Stats & Stars
The Github Readme Stats allow me to view my progress like my contributions counts, stars, code lines,.. and that all means something. I love when I see it at like, a few and grows to more later. Yes, numbers ain’t that matters, but they do tell a story to me.
On the other hand, Github stars are a form of social proof that the project is valuable to others and it’s being recognized by the community than just myself. I love the feeling when a notification pops up that someone starred my repository. The numbers here not only encourage me but also prove that my work is community worthy.
Streaks: Gamify your growth
Shout out to DenverCoder1 for making Github readme streak stats.
Denver’s innovation displays the number of days that you code continously. This creation is how I gamify my coding lifestyle by doing at least something everyday to keep the streak. Additionally, this counts every single bit of commitments, which mean even the smallest can lit up the new number. The streak number got me pursuing persistency. Percisely, this maintains discipline and creates an endless motivation to code.
I believe after you have read all that, this does not matters to others anymore.
So are the critics wrong?
Nope. They are not entirely wrong, a flashy Github is not going to drive you anywhere. Your main professional skills and experiences matter more in the long run, and matter the most I believe.
But, stop. People are going too fast and forgot to look around, it’s not just about the code. It’s about showing the ambition, the passion, the consistency, and the discipline to keep going. It’s about building a personal brand that reflects who you are as a developer.
For myself, I have been using it to tell myself a story of my evolution. I see myself from a no-one who literally can’t think what I can do to write down, into someone seeing what should I select to write about. It’s a journey of self-discovery and growth.
The Bottom Line
Building a Github profile is not about vanity or impressing others. It’s about creating a system for yourself to keeps shaping your character. A friendly, authentic profile helps you connect with other developers and tells your story.
Shout out to Pybash1, whose inspired me to write things down and share my thoughts. I hope this article helps you see the value in crafting your own profile, not just for others, but for yourself.
In the end, it’s not just about what others think. It’s about you, your journey, and your growth. Ignore the critics—focus on your own path and keep building!