Jobs Simply

How far my C++ knowledge will help me for a job with .NET as an ancillary skill?

I never learned .NET and just know that it's a framework where you can use multiple languages. On the other hand, I've a good understanding of C++. I was asked for .NET experience apart from other mandatory skills for a job opening. So, can you tell how far can I use my C++ knowledge to substantiate the point that I am not a complete newbie for .NET.

Public Comments

1. Your C++ skills will go a long way in helping your cause. Of all the .NET languages, C# is modelled very closely on Java and C++ in terms of syntax and OOPs concept. Hence for you to start programming comfortably using C# is only a matter of days, if not hours. C# also has a lot of inbuilt classes and functions that make your job as programmer very easy. Stuff which you spent a lot of time and several hundred lines coding in C++ can easily be completed by just calling inbuilt functions in C#. So all the best. You can easily convince your interviewer that you can adapt to .NET with your knowledge of C++.
2. I'd agree with smokin' wisdom's advice. The only thing to add would be to begin learning C# yourself. That will show initiative and can only help future job applications (a one language developer has a limited future). Also, at least understanding some of the concepts before you go in will help you present a better understanding of the challenges. If you've only done C++ and not done anything like MFC (or other OO windows libraries) then you are going to have to convince them you know or can learn how to interact with Windows controls. C++ for console applications is a lot different then windows applications.