Xiangyang Liu wrote:

So hiding the Ph.D. when looking for a programming job is the correct approach then

Most definitely ! Unless you have reason to believe from the job ad that convinces you otherwise. Or like you stated earlier -

Xiangyang Liu wrote:

Once you get some real experience, it does not matter any more.

You're never gonna know who's gonna poke questions in your face at the interview. It could be a new staff we just hired, a senior staff or one of the boss types who: a) Thought PHD means a "Pretty Hectic Day" b) Think you're trying to rub our noses in your degree c) Don't have enough experience or the skills to draw appropriate references. And plus, you could always pipe in your credential should you feel the need to emphasize your background. To be honest with you we'd rather hear it that way a lot of the time. Keep a genuine excuse (for the other types) in your arsenal on why it wasn't on paper to begin with. But also remember - not all Bosses can afford to, or are meant to have strong technical background. In mid to large orgs, there are enough of political reasons on why it could prove unfavorable. Leaning on my experience, it really boils down to character. A good boss should primarily boss well without being too bossy !!

Xiangyang Liu wrote:

Just wondering which part of me is horribly naive

Just one part: 5. Thinking individuals (like the one you're responding to) are ever going to serve you unbiased opinions. Especially those who equate "hiding" to a cardinal sin versus information abstraction (need-to-know-basis).

What's academic credential gotta do with the price of beer ?? Individuals get their PhD for academic pursuit or other interests as well. Bosses can give a rat's ass about a PhD without a professional experience to back it up. So if you have credentials that don't pertain to the job requirements, "Keep it to yourself" is what we'd say. Anyone who thinks the majority of the bosses think otherwise is a Juvenile with an overdose of ego !