Hiring Developers, Simplified
Most hiring processes are too long, too inconsistent and too dependent on a single recruiter. This guide lays out a simple, repeatable process for hiring developers that you can run with a small team.
Step 1 - Kick-off
Agree role profile, must-haves vs nice-to-haves, salary band and target hire date with the hiring manager up front.
Step 2 - Sourcing
Use a vetted opt-in pool plus your own network. Avoid spraying outreach - it produces noise, not signal.
Step 3 - Screen
A 25-minute call covering motivation, salary, notice period and one or two technical anchor questions.
Step 4 - Technical interview
Job-relevant exercise, ideally on real (anonymised) problems from the team. Aim for 60–90 minutes total.
Step 5 - Team & values
Conversation with two people from the team. No surprise panel; no trick questions.
Step 6 - Offer
Move fast. Verbal first, written same day. Address counteroffers up front.