> How do you recognise good programmers if you’re a business guy?
Simple. Ask someone who knows. If you don't know anyone who knows, you might want to reevaluate whether you should be getting into the tech industry.
As for the arrogance thing - look at Brin/Page, Ellison and Gates, etc. - all hackers. When a "business" guy's achievements in the hacker space outdo these hackers' achievements in the business world, be sure to let me know.
Being a self-important egomaniac is one of the most common qualities of people who start their own businesses. Is that what you were detecting in my tone? Well, you're very observant.
Simple. Ask someone who knows. If you don't know anyone who knows, you might want to reevaluate whether you should be getting into the tech industry.
As for the arrogance thing - look at Brin/Page, Ellison and Gates, etc. - all hackers. When a "business" guy's achievements in the hacker space outdo these hackers' achievements in the business world, be sure to let me know.