7 Things You Need to Attract Awesome Software Developers

Want to entice sought-after software developers to put their tech talents to work for you? Money alone won’t do it.

We asked CyberCoders’ awesome team of developers (who have created the most powerful recruiting platform in the industry, mind you) what they look for when deciding where to work. Salary came in toward the bottom of the list.

Check out what software developers look for in a job:

1. Latest Technology: The best and brightest software developers don’t want to waste their time with yesterday’s tools. They want to learn, evolve and increase their awesomeness – that means living on the cutting edge.

One of the reasons I left my last place is because they were always hesitant about getting the latest technology. I don’t want to be the one who is using a typewriter when everyone else is using a supercomputer.

2. Purpose: Talented tech pros want to use their skills for good. Give them a clear, positive mission in addition to the latest tools to achieve that mission.

I want to work for a business I care about. It’s not just about slinging code, but producing something that has a measurable and positive impact, helps others and solves interesting problems.

3. Great Team: Developers spend a lot of time together – much of it in small rooms with white-board walls — and want to work with like-minded people who they can collaborate with and learn from. Better yet, people who they get along with. Build great teams by involving members in the hiring process. Personality conflicts and poor cultural fit is a great way to lose talent.

The best thing you can do as a developer is to surround yourself with people who are smarter than you, and always learn from them. Software development is a team sport. If you can’t trust your team or get along with your teammates, you’re on the wrong team.

4. Cool Environment: Games, goodies and great surroundings ranked high with CyberCoders developers.

Long hours and overtime are often associated with being a developer; so if you’re going to spend all that time working, you’re going to want to be working in a cool space.

5. Freedom: Team-oriented though they are, developers crave freedom to work their own way. Developing software is a creative undertaking. Micromanaging won’t fly.

Granted, some companywide coding standards are important to be able to work efficiently and effectively together; but if you’re being micromanaged at your desk, you’re probably going to start looking for a new job.

6. Competent Boss: In addition to a boss who doesn’t micromanage, our developers said having a boss who they respect and who knows technology is important. No “pointy-haired bosses,” please.

It is nice to know I’m answering to someone who is worth answering to.

7. Salary: It’s worth noting that salary was toward the bottom of the list of priorities for most of our developers (though it is still made every list!).

It reminds me how much I’m appreciated!