There is no denying that technical skills are imperative when working as a software developer. When you are up to date on the latest trends and have an eye towards the future you are well on your way to success. With that being said a team player who is an effective communicator, a problem solver, and who can adapt to any situation takes a candidate to the next level for us at OSTechnical.
What soft skills should you be honing, you ask? We’ve got you covered with a comprehensive list of what sets an extraordinary software developer apart from the crowd.
Communication is Key
Unsurprisingly, a good communicator=a great employee. Those of us in the tech field may not always be the go-to pick for public speaking at a function but effective speakers are a major plus in the office. Explaining technical concepts to non-technical team members increases productivity and overall success. Clear and concise writing in emails, documentation, and reports also contributes to team collaboration. If everyone understands what is going on they can move forward in unison sharing ideas, discussing project requirements, and coordinating tasks.
Teamwork Makes the Dream Work
Software developers are key members of teams that are often made up of other developers, designers, and product managers. To build and improve software you must be understanding and considerate of the different perspectives and personalities that make up your team. When someone has great interpersonal skills they can resolve conflicts and maintain a positive working environment which benefits the group as a whole.
Emphasis On the Problem-Solving
Critical thinking and creativity are must-have soft skills when solving programming challenges. Someone who can “zoom out” and analyze a situation logically will lead to efficient solutions for your company. A creative thinker will utilize that logical side of their brain and infuse it with creativity while developing unique fixes for complex issues that will satisfy and surprise their colleagues. Software development is a notoriously “buggy” landscape and someone with a different point of view is always the right choice for hiring managers.
Adaptable In Any Situation
The tides of tech are always shifting in this high-speed industry. A successful software developer anticipates changes in technologies, methodologies, and project requirements. They are constantly researching and implementing the latest tools, languages, and frameworks. A hunger for learning and a willingness to be flexible are signs of a world-class developer.
Developers With An Attention to Detail
Accuracy and a willingness to do the extra legwork of testing and debugging are qualities to search for during the hiring process. Clear, error-free code is the calling card of an in-demand software developer. Success is all about attention even to the tiniest details in design and functionality. Testing software thoroughly and eliminating bugs the second they rear their ugly heads ensures a high-quality product.
Always On Time
Time management means meeting deadlines and knowing which tasks take priority. Developers work on tight schedules. When someone can manage their time wisely projects are completed on or before they are due and within scope. Prioritizing tasks leads to goals getting accomplished and the ability to handle workloads.
User-Centric Approach
Empathy for colleagues is incredibly important for software developers but when that empathy is extended to the users of a product companies know they’ve found their perfect match. Understanding the needs of consumers and a desire to enhance their experiences when interacting with your business are soft skills that truly shine. Applying user-centered design principles helps create intuitive and effective software that guarantees a loyal following.
Leadership and Mentoring
Leadership skills are particularly important when you are pursuing senior development positions or team leadership roles. A willingness to mentor junior team members by helping them along the journey of their career improves relationships and enhances workplace satisfaction. Helping less experienced developers benefits everyone and boosts project success rates.
Interpersonal Skills
This may seem obvious, but be nice. People who are good at building relationships with colleagues, clients, and other stakeholders lead to more successful collaborations and projects down the road. These are the same people who are excellent at conflict resolution and resolving issues constructively and professionally. Nice software developers who are incredible at what they do from a technological standpoint are our bread and butter here at OSTechnical.
The Benefits of Soft Skills in Software Developers
Better collaboration and communication lead to more cohesive and productive teams. Attention to detail, being a problem-solver, and a user-centric approach result in higher quality software. Most importantly, for your future, developers with strong soft skills are oftentimes the most successful in leadership roles and have better career progression opportunities. Technical skills are a given. At OSTechnical we know you’re amazing at what you do, it’s who you are that we are interested in when we place you in the perfect position.