If I employ a programmer, I don't really care how efficient their code is. Obviously I want it to be readable and modular - but it's more important that they actually understand the end user and their needs, than how to write code. Software wouldn't exist without an end purpose. I have seen very expensive software systems, developed by highly paid consultants, costing hundreds of thousands of £ (SAP being a particular bugbear) flop on delivery because basic stuff like a decent GUI isn't thought of.
And sadly I often find that the better programmers are less likely to be able to communicate effectively with the end user.
And sadly I often find that the better programmers are less likely to be able to communicate effectively with the end user.