[giantg2]

You aren't getting it - your manager is the one who decides if you're experienced, if you get that raise, etc. The use of the word "experienced" in this context is being used as a credential. Credentials are granted through authority. So yes, it very much is true. I would even say that if one doesn't understand the role that perception plays, then they clearly dont have much developer experience.

[AnimalMuppet]

There is a difference between building software well and persuading your manager that you build software well. (The better the manager, the smaller the difference.) Some of us have had certain coworkers over the years that sharply illustrated the difference.

We're talking about the former - about actually being good at building software. You seem to be obsessed about talking about the latter. Fine, I guess, but that's not the discussion the rest of us are having.

[giantg2]

From the title (italics for emphasis): "Ask HN: What qualities show that you're an experienced software engineer?"

"Show", clearly communicates that perception is a component of the question. Who cares if you're actually good if nobody knows it, potentially including themself.