As per the latest Statista report, there are currently 27.7 million developers worldwide, and this figure is expected to climb to 28.7 million by 2024. At first glance, it might seem that hiring a software developer should be a piece of cake. However, the reality is quite the opposite.
The reality is that in 2023, the software engineering industry confronts an acute shortage of skilled professionals. We’re facing a massive shortage of skilled devs, with as many as five job positions available for every developer, while the demand for software developers is estimated to rise by 22% by 2029.
The situation becomes even more alarming as the IDC (International Data Corporation) has forecasted that by 2025, there will be a worldwide deficit of 4 million developers. This shortage might potentially result in an approximate loss of $8.5 trillion in annual revenue by 2030 due to the global talent shortage.
As we can see, in this high-stakes environment, it is crucial to assemble a team of highly skilled software developers rapidly. But the question still remains: How to hire software developers fast? And how can you fast-track the process of finding skilled software developers?
All of these questions and more will be answered in the article below. Stay tuned and read on to discover the solutions.
Software developers’ hiring process
So, what is the process of hiring a developer? The following stages cover the core elements of the software developer hiring process, from attracting candidates to finalizing job offers. It’s important to note that some companies may have variations in this process, and the specific steps and assessments can differ widely depending on the company’s size, industry, and nature of the software development role.
Job posting & candidate sourcing
At first, companies create job postings with role details shared on platforms like job boards, the company´s website, social media, and professional networking. It´s better if a tech expert handles candidate searches, evaluating qualifications to match needs. This usually takes from 1 to 3 weeks.
Resume screening & initial screening
Recruiters review resumes and applications, shortlist candidates, and conduct initial screening interviews to assess interest, communication skills, and role fit. Focus on essential qualifications during resume screening and use the interview to gauge enthusiasm and cultural alignment.
Technical interview
Passing the initial screening leads to technical assessments. These involve coding challenges, algorithm explanations, code optimization, system design, or pair programming sessions to assess problem-solving and coding skills. Assessment methods vary by role and company preference.
Offer
Once you’ve found the right candidate, it’s time to make a job offer. This offer includes details like salary, benefits, job duration, and the start date. This process usually takes about a week, sometimes less. When the candidate agrees to the offer, they’ll sign a contract to confirm their employment.
Onboarding
Onboarding for new software developers includes introductions to the team, company values, and project details. Before starting the onboarding phase, the developer is given a period, typically from 2 to 4 weeks, during which a developer can wrap up any remaining tasks and tie up any loose ends in their previous work commitments.
How long is the hiring process for software developers?
The time it takes to hire a developer can vary depending on several factors. Firstly, the complexity of the role and the specific skills required, the location of the job opening, and the thoroughness of the screening and interview process can affect hiring time as well.
Companies with multiple rounds of interviews, technical assessments, and reference checks may take longer to make a hiring decision than those with a streamlined process.
How long is the onboarding process for a software engineer?
The onboarding process for a software developer typically involves introducing them to the company’s coding practices, development tools, and project workflows. They may receive training on the company’s technology stack and software development methodologies. Besides, they’ll get acquainted with their team members and project objectives.
How much does it cost to hire a software developer in the US?
As a recent report states, a software development project typically spans anywhere from one to nine months. On average, a tailor-made software project is anticipated to be approximately 4-5 months long. When it comes to the financial aspect, the price ranges for software development projects extended from a modest $3,000 to a substantial $120,000.
Hourly rates for software developers typically range from $20 to $100 or even higher, depending on experience and location. More specifically:
- Entry-level software developers typically charge hourly rates ranging from $20 to $50 per hour;
- More experienced software developers with 5 or more years of experience can demand hourly rates of $55 -$70 or higher;
- Full-time software developers may have an average hourly rate of $75 to $90 or more, depending on factors such as location, experience, and required skills;
- Senior programmers with extensive expertise in multiple programming languages may command rates of up to $100 per hour.
Besides, the geographical region can substantially impact hiring costs, with places like San Francisco, California; San Jose, California (Silicon Valley); New York City, New York; Seattle, Washington; Boston, Massachusetts; Washington, D.C.; Austin, Texas, that are home to many tech companies, startups, and a competitive tech job market, which often leads to higher salaries and hourly rates for software developers.
You should also consider expenses related to recruitment, onboarding, and potential benefits for developers. And don´t forget that developers with specialized skills, like machine learning or cybersecurity, can command different rates in the job market.
3 winning strategies for attracting and keeping software developers
When it comes to getting and keeping the best software developers, you need smart tactics. The following 3 approaches such as offering good pay, creating a great work atmosphere, and helping them grow – are key to attracting and holding onto top talent in the tech world.
- Remote work opportunities. The majority of software developers highly appreciate the idea of working from home or other flexible locations. In fact, a recent survey found that a whopping 80% of them want to do this for most of their work hours. So, companies that provide remote work options not only make their software developers happy but also get access to a wider talent pool.
- Offer a competitive payment. Paying software developers well not only attracts top talent but also motivates them to do their best work. A competitive salary acknowledges their skills and dedication, fostering a sense of value and commitment within the team. When developers feel fairly compensated, they are more likely to stay with a company, leading to lower turnover rates and a stronger, more productive workforce.
- Growth opportunities. These skilled individuals drive innovation and progress. When you provide opportunities for them to learn and take on new challenges, you keep them engaged and efficient. For instance, 86% of Kitrum employees feel that the company provides them with opportunities for personal and professional growth. The investment in their growth leads to better products, happier customers, and long-term success for the company.
Kitrum’s advice on rapid software developer hiring
First and foremost, create a detailed candidate profile. It must contain all your requirements, including both technical and soft skills. Having a clear understanding of who you are looking for will definitely speed up the process of searching for the right fit.
Next, remember to be fast in writing and sending out messages to potential candidates. Make sure you include the right amount of information in your messages, ensuring there’s all necessary project information, details about the tech stack, and specific project-related nuances.
The same applies to scheduling the initial call with the recruiter. You can use various tools like Everlinks, Everlinks, Linkpop, Linktree, or Lnk.Bio with all the recruiter’s details so that the person can see who they’ll be communicating with, and a calendar link should be included. This simplifies communication in the early stages. Of course, it’s important to conduct a great call, share as much as possible about the company and the project, and use storytelling methods to build friendly relationships right from the first call.
Lastly, it’s all about fast processing. In order to speed things up, find out about slots for technical call right during the first call. In some cases, you may even consider scheduling these calls on the very same day.
To summarize
You have probably realized that finding a software developer quickly can be quite a challenge. So why not delegate this job to professionals? KITRUM can significantly simplify the process for you. With our dedicated, highly experienced team and streamlined processes, we take the hassle out of the equation, allowing you to focus on more critical aspects of your project.
