How do you ensure you have the perfect person for the Software Application Developers position you wish to fill?
This question becomes more critical when it comes to hiring software application developers. This is because the software section is the backbone of any company’s growth.
There is a surge in demand for tech talents. However, HR professionals or hiring recruiters face various challenges in conducting tech recruitment. Here we will help you determine what technical skills need to be looked out for when hiring software application developers.
Why Are Developers Hard to Find?
Companies in the market for software developers typically understand what they need but often struggle to find the top tech talent.
The most significant problem with hiring software developers is, of course, competition. The bigger the industry you are in, the fiercer the fight to recruit the best candidate. And if the position you are recruiting for is to onboard tech employees remotely, you might be competing for that particular candidate with virtually the entire world.
Hence, getting hiring decisions right is vital and can cost you if mistakes are made.
Technical Skills Of Outstanding Software Developers to Look For While Hiring
1. Artificial Intelligence (AI)
AI is rapidly changing the landscape of work and is a highly sought-after skill. The increased popularity of AI and machine learning and its promise to automate everyday tasks means professionals with these skills and expertise are in high demand.
According to a report, 49% of companies are currently exploring or planning to use machine learning (McKinsey). The top skills to be known within AI include C++, Amazon Web Services (AWS), and Python. Now that businesses are more into implementing AI to keep up with the demand during Covid-19, most companies will want people with expertise in AI.
2. Data Structures and Algorithms
This skill is also one of the topmost priorities by most recruiters, checking their problem solving and coding skills. A good software developer or programmer will know how data will be organised and how it can be used to solve a real problem.
Data structure and algorithms are the heart of programming. Writing good, clear, understandable code that doesn’t require a large number of comments is the best way to judge the competence of a software developer. It also shows the developers’ dedication to the craft beyond just getting the job done.
3. Flair for Programming Languages
Withdrawing candidates who lack experience with specific programming languages and tools is not the best way to find the right talent. Instead, find out if a candidate manages their time effectively to produce a working solution or spend much time on one aspect.
Since programming is constantly evolving, developers need to grasp new techniques, best practices, and technologies quickly on their own. Therefore, to be a perfect fit for your organization, candidates need to excel in at least one programming language in depth.
4. Basics of Testing
Earlier it used to be the case where the developers would only have to write a bunch of codes and pass it over to a bunch of testers and find the bugs. Not anymore! With so many software projects adopting the so-called Agile process, both the software developers and testers will have to work more closely together.
With that said, during the tech interview, you also need to ensure that your candidate knows something or at least the basics of testing – system testing, white-box testing, black-box testing, unit testing, test automation, etc. A great developer will tend not to trust their code until they have tested it extensively.
5. Knowing the Nuances of Different Operating Systems(OS)
Different OS work in different ways, so your developers should understand the nuances of each one. This is a key skill as it will often change the requirements, challenges, and opportunities involved in a development project.
The three essential OS developers need to know are – Linux, Windows, and Mac. However, if your company’s technical projects are designed for mobile or tablet devices, developers will also need to be familiar with Android and iOS. Understanding the differences between OS is crucial to the developers as they need to know whether the OS is playing a role in their project, which will help identify and solve issues.
6. Integrated Development Environment (IDE)
IDEs allow developers to write, modify, compile, run and debug their codes. Hence, they play a vital role in developing technical projects and are fundamental for ensuring high-quality and consistent code.
IDEs improve the code quality, speed up development, and help maximize the value of the developer’s result. Therefore, whatever development language technical professionals use, they must be familiar with the relevant IDE. This helps in optimizing the quality of their work.
7. Databases
Working with databases is a fundamental part of any developer’s role. They need to know how to store, create, insert, update, and delete records when required. In addition, developers need to use them efficiently since most applications and software development require database usage.
The best developers need to know how to work with multiple SQL queries. This may be vital as most companies, including yours, will often be running different databases like- Oracle, MongoDB, Redis, Cassandra, etc.
There’s no doubt that there is a pool of talented developers in the market whose skills match your organization’s requirements. The skills listed above should help you find the right software application developer to deliver your software development projects effectively.
At CodeQuotient, we solve the tech talent shortage by preparing the top students from colleges to become highly valuable and sought-after tech professionals. If you want to know more about us, contact us today.
