As a senior engineer having done tons of side projects that I really enjoyed doing, when I approach a customer for a contract it is not rare that the customer tells me : "We could saw your code online / your involvement in that or that" so it is a good showroom for your skills.
Consider it as an investment,
1. because it is an opportunity to learn new stuff compared to your daily professional routine
2. because it is a way to demonstrate your skills.
Remember that you sell your expertise, not just your time.
BTW : yes, lawyers do pro bonos ! For exactly the same reason, for the fun of the case and their image.
As a senior engineer having done tons of side projects that I really enjoyed doing, when I approach a customer for a contract it is not rare that the customer tells me : "We could saw your code online / your involvement in that or that" so it is a good showroom for your skills.
Consider it as an investment, 1. because it is an opportunity to learn new stuff compared to your daily professional routine 2. because it is a way to demonstrate your skills.
Remember that you sell your expertise, not just your time.
BTW : yes, lawyers do pro bonos ! For exactly the same reason, for the fun of the case and their image.