For employers
Skilled Developer Hiring Guide
Hiring senior developers is a different game from junior hiring. They're harder to attract, slower to move, and the cost of a bad hire is much higher. This guide covers what works.
Where senior developers come from
Mostly through trusted networks and opt-in talent platforms. Job boards and cold outreach are low-yield.
What senior developers want
Interesting problems, strong teams, transparent compensation, real autonomy and a hiring process that respects their time.
The interview
Senior interviews should focus on system design, prior decisions and trade-offs - not LeetCode. Discuss real problems from your codebase.
Closing the offer
Move fast, be transparent about progression, and don't lowball - senior developers are highly aware of the market.