Why does everyone say to learn Python first but then all the job posts want JavaScript?

I've been learning Python for 3 months now. Took a course on Udemy, did some small projects. But when I look at entry level coding jobs in my area, almost all of them ask for JavaScript or React. My friend who works at a startup said I should switch to JavaScript because that's what actually gets you hired. But another guy on Reddit said Python is better for beginners because it's simpler. Which side is right here? Has anyone else run into this problem where what you learn and what jobs want don't match up?

2 comments

2 Comments

oscarb771mo ago

Your friend's right honestly. Look at the actual job boards - Python jobs exist but they're mostly for data science or senior backend roles, not entry level. Entry level web dev jobs are basically all JavaScript because every company needs someone to maintain their React frontend. Python is simpler to learn as a first language but that doesn't matter if nobody's hiring for it. Udemy courses on Python won't help if you can't even get an interview. Have you checked how many junior Python dev jobs are in your area compared to junior JavaScript ones?

amy1541mo ago

In my city there are maybe 2 junior Python jobs posted right now vs like 20 for JavaScript. I check every week and it's been that way for months. Python is great for learning but it's not matching up with what companies actually need at entry level. If you want a job soon JavaScript is the safer bet.