Mistakes to Be Considered While Hiring Web Developers
a month ago
5 min read

Mistakes to Be Considered While Hiring Web Developers

In today's digital era, imagine a business not being online—it's like a fish trying to survive on land! Sounds tough. Right? To make a mark in this expansive digital jungle, a slick website is key, and that's where professional web developers come into play. 

But here's the catch: making mistakes while hiring web developers can cost you both money and precious time. Stick around, and we'll walk you through dodging those hiring mistakes and share some insider secrets to hire web developers in India.

  • Clear communication: The starting point

According to the McKinsey study, effective communication leads to a 20-25% increase in productivity. During the hiring process, gray areas can result in missteps and squandered efforts. Hence, it's crucial to lay out your cards, specifying what you're aiming for. 

Say, you're keen on an online shopping site; have you pondered about features like interactive chat support or a virtual dressing room? And what about the steps a user takes while on your site?

Creating a comprehensive brief is like gifting a roadmap to your developer. It should encapsulate the project's goals, the bells and whistles you want, insights about your target users, and visual design preferences. 

And once the wheels are in motion, set up routine touchpoints to review progress. Use platforms like Slack, Trello, or Jira to keep the dialogue open and documented.

  • Prioritize technical proficiency

The digital realm is teeming with developers, but not all are cut from the same cloth. Think of coding as crafting; many might know the basics, but only a handful can truly shine. To gauge a potential recruit's prowess, consider setting up tailored coding exercises or challenges. 

Sites like Codility or HackerRank come in handy for this. And don't just stick to coding. Dive into their grasp on web layouts, database knowledge, and their pulse on current tech waves.

This strategy ensures you're not just getting a coder, but a maestro. After all, their tech groundwork will be the deciding factor in your site's speed, growth potential, and overall user vibe.

  • Portfolio examination

Peeking into a developer's portfolio is akin to flipping through their professional diary. It beams with their past exploits, design flair, and tech chops. When you're sifting through it, go beyond a mere glance. 

Pro tip: 

Check out the responsiveness of their crafted sites. How do these fare on varying devices or browsers?

Zoom in on works that resonate with your needs. If they've dabbled in something akin to your vision, they're likely better equipped to navigate through known hurdles and apply industry best tricks. Plus, a diverse portfolio can also underscore a developer's versatility and range - a golden trait in the ever-shifting world of web design.

  • Avoid the cheap option trap

It's human nature to hunt for deals, especially when it comes to maximizing returns. But, in the web development arena, going for the cheapest bid can backfire. 

Sure, a budget-friendly developer might seem like a steal initially, but the aftermath can be riddled with glitches: from erratic codes, non-adaptive layouts to potential security loopholes. Fixing these blunders can often drain more resources than investing in quality from the get-go. 

Beyond the dollar signs, ponder over the potential lost hours and the blow to your brand's image. Rather than just pinching pennies, weigh the holistic value a developer can usher in.

  • Consider cultural and time zone differences

Stepping into the global arena to hire web developers is like opening a door to a world brimming with talent. But remember, every region has its unique rhythm. 

The cultural backdrop might influence work habits, the way they chat or email, and even their creative flair. Plan meetings that suit both time frames. Leverage tools that bridge the time gap. And hey, diverse viewpoints? They're the secret sauce for innovation.

  • Check references

Think of references as a sneak peek into a developer's track record. They spill the beans on things that might stay hidden during chats or when you're browsing their portfolio. 

Were they always on the dot? How did they juggle communications? Did any disagreements pop up, and how did they smooth things over?

  • Flexibility and adaptability

Let's be real; web development is like shifting sands. With tech trends changing, users hopping from one preference to another, and the dynamic needs of businesses, you'd want developers on your team who can roll with the punches.

Here's an idea: during interviews, toss them a curveball, a "what would you do if..." kind of question. It's not always about the right answer but how they tackle the question. 

If they’re keeping up with the tech scene, always hungry to learn more, and can zig when a zag is expected, then you’ve got a keeper in the digital world who’s always on the move.

  • Understand their process

Each developer or squad has their game plan, a blueprint they swear by, from the idea's birth to its big launch. And getting a sneak peek into this can help set the stage. Maybe they’re all about the Agile life? Or perhaps they swear by the Scrum code? 

When you’re clued into their process, you get the lowdown on how things will roll out, when to expect updates, when to give your feedback, and so much more. Furthermore, a clear game plan often means fewer fumbles along the way.

  • Post-Development support

Building a website isn't a "set it and forget it" deal. Once the confetti settles post-launch, you might need tweaks, patches, or even a feature addition. And that's when your developer shouldn't go missing in action. 

So, when discussing terms, chat about the aftercare. How long will they stick around post-launch? Are they your go-to for any sudden bugs? Or perhaps for some feature jazz-up? Their willingness to see the entire journey through speaks volumes of their dedication.

Options to hire web developers

  • Freelance platforms: In the Asia-Pacific region, approximately 85% of employers employ freelancers. Platforms such as Upwork, Freelancer, and Total are often go-to spots to hire web developers in India. Still, navigating them requires some attention. Dive into reviews, have in-depth discussions with potential candidates, and ensure they resonate with your project's objectives. 

  • Development agencies: They usually boast a crew of specialists who can juggle everything – from designing and coding to QA testing and support after the site is live. The beauty of this approach? You tap into a diverse pool of expertise, ensuring each segment of your project is crafted with precision.

  • Referrals: The saying goes, "Nothing beats personal recommendations," and it rings true when you're on the hunt for web developers. A nod from business partners, pals, or fellow industry players can sometimes be the golden ticket. A developer who comes with a thumbs-up has, in all likelihood, showcased their prowess in real-world setups.

  • Offshore development: Thanks to our interconnected digital landscape, geographical boundaries have blurred. Many businesses are setting their sights on global horizons for top-tier talent. Considering developers from regions like India could be easy on the pocket, thanks to the attractive exchange rates and competitive pricing. Not to mention, countries like India are buzzing with tech-savvy professionals acquainted with the latest in web tech.

Conclusion

Hiring the right web developer or team can pivot your digital journey from just "meh" to "wow". It's not just about ticking technical boxes but finding a match that gels with your project vision and company vibe. By avoiding common mistakes while hiring web developers we've highlighted above, you'll be on track to partner with a developer or crew that aligns seamlessly with your aspirations.