Ever been called a computer nerd?

[Jon12345]

There is one thing that really bugs me. It is when someone who knows %$&^* all about computers and because you work online they end up asking if you are a computer nerd!

Anyone else experienced this prejudice?

What is a good retort to these ignoramouses?

Jon

[trillianjedi]

What is a good retort to these ignoramouses?

"Luddite!"

TJ

[greenleaves]

I actually get a kick when I encounter conversations that go somewhat like this:

-What do you do?
-SE marketing
-errrr
-I work on websites
-errrr
-I do online business
-errrr
-I work on a computer
-OHHHHH, now we are talkin. So how is it with computer work, I have heard (insert extemely over-simplified view [i.e. it's bad or it's good])
-Well actually, it is like any job; it has its ups and downs.

It doesn't bother me that people call me a computer nerd, I have accepted the steriotype.

[Jon12345]

I like the Luditte one. Had to look it up though!

[thumpcyc]

Yup, been called a lot of things in my time, and the ones that called me a computer nerd, are still calling and waving money, trying to get me to come back.

So, it is not so bad as one might think.

Thumpcyc

[Essex_boy]

Never been called a nerd although while at school I used to be called 'computer whizz kid' that real, really, really used to annoy me.

[photon]

I told a friend of mine about PubCon and that I'd be going this time. Then I found out she told her friends that I was going to a "geek conference".

Does that count? :)

[Macguru]

I usually wait for at least 6 persons insulting me so. Guido cut me a deal for kneecap jobs by the dozen. ;)

[vkaryl]

I'm perfectly happy being known as a nerd or geek. What's to dislike?

Sheesh.

[greenleaves]

it is better than being called a politician ;)

[fashezee]

-What do you do?
-SE marketing
-errrr
-I work on websites
-errrr
-I do online business
-errrr
-I work on a computer

Ya....I've had that conversation as well; the worse part is when I mention computer, they think I'm technician and ask if I can fix there problems...issshhh!

[mivox]

What is a good retort to these ignoramouses?

Either:

"Yes." or "I prefer the term 'geek' actually."

[greenleaves]

[quote]the worse part is when I mention computer, they think I'm technician and ask if I can fix there problems[quote]
Yeah and they say things like: "I just can't seem to surf the internet, do you know why that happens?"

[thaedge]

Ditto fashezee and greenleaves... usually the next question is "ohh so what computer should I buy"? Or "insert some problem with a computer", so how do I fix that?

I tell them to call support (if family), if other I tell them I have no clue - its better then telling them to Format a Drive :)

[iamlost]

My son thinks that because he can wup me in first person shooters that I am a wuss.

My daughter who programs as naturally as she breathes thinks that I am passe (assume accent aigu).

I would love to be called a nerdy geek instead of a passe wuss. Want to trade titles?

the worse part is when I mention computer, they think I'm technician and ask if I can fix there problems

Learned my response from a physician years ago:
I smile and say: "Certainly. Be pleased to help. I charge $500CAD callout paid up front plus $120CAD per hour plus all expenses. When is a convenient time?"

The silence is deafening. And sad to say, no one has actually taken me up on it :-(