Beyond Coding: 10 Essential Developer Soft Skills

Software development is a highly technical and specialized field that requires a vast array of hard skills and knowledge. However, in today’s increasingly interconnected world, software developers must possess not only technical abilities but also a set of developer soft skills that are equally vital for achieving success in the industry.

Developer soft skills are considerably more indicative of future job performance than hard skills. Soft skills play a crucial role in how developers tackle work-related tasks, build relationships, and interact with colleagues and stakeholders. In fact, the 2022 Global DevSecOps Survey by Gitlab found that a greater reliance on soft skills such as communication and collaboration will help DevOps professionals navigate the future of work.

Here are some of the most important software developer soft skills that hiring managers should consider when finding the best fit for their projects and teams:

1. Communication

Effective communication is one of the most essential developer soft skills, as it is critical for interacting with team members. It’s also useful when conveying complex technical information to non-technical stakeholders. Developers must be able to explain their ideas and solutions clearly and concisely. They must also be able to listen actively and respond appropriately to feedback and suggestions.

2. Collaboration

Software development is a team effort, and the ability to work well in a team is crucial for success. Developers who can collaborate with designers, project managers, and other team members to reach common goals are in high demand. They must be able to contribute their expertise and skills to the team while acknowledging and respecting others’ ideas and opinions.

3. Time Management

In a recent survey by Stack Overflow, developers cited meeting deadlines and maintaining a healthy work-life balance as their biggest challenges. Deadlines are unavoidable in software development. Employers should look for developers who can accurately estimate project timelines, prioritize tasks, and effectively manage their time and workload.

4. Problem-Solving

Software development is all about solving problems. Hiring managers value developers who can approach complex technical problems with an analytical mindset. The ideal developers can break down problems into smaller, more manageable tasks. They can deliver effective solutions that meet business requirements while adhering to best practices and standards.

Andela hosts regular hackathons and EPIC tournaments where participants get to showcase their product-building and problem-solving skills. These events allow engineers worldwide to work individually or with a team, represent their region, and create innovative solutions using cutting-edge technology.

5. Creativity

Software development is not just about writing code — it’s also about designing and building software solutions that solve real-world problems. When assessing web developer soft skills, employers should look for tech professionals who can think outside the box and push the boundaries of what’s possible.

Andela helps companies find innovative problem-solvers from different parts of the globe. This diversity fosters creativity by encouraging the quest for new information and perspectives, which leads to better decision-making and problem-solving.

6. Adaptability

The world of software development is constantly evolving, with new technologies, programming languages, and platforms powering the future of work. However, statistics show that over 50% of developers are struggling to keep up with the pace of technological progress.

Developers who are open to learning new things and can adapt to emerging technologies and techniques have a significant advantage over those who are averse to change. In today’s fast-paced software development environment, the ability to pivot quickly and seamlessly between projects and technology stacks is critical.

7. Attention to Detail

Software development requires a high level of accuracy and attention to detail. Developers must be meticulous and precise while handling complex code, projects, and documents. This includes the ability to analyze a problem, employ thorough testing protocols in their code, and identify and fix any errors or bugs. They must also ensure that they follow best practices and coding standards.

8. Accountability

Developers must be capable of taking responsibility and accountability for their actions and decisions. They must take proactive steps to ensure the quality and security of the software they create. Practicing accountability also helps build a culture of transparency and continuous improvement — where developers learn from their mistakes and strive for better results.

9. Emotional Intelligence

Emotional intelligence, also known as emotional quotient or EQ refers to how software developers respond to challenging situations in the workplace. It is among the top developer soft skills that have become increasingly critical to succeed in the tech industry. Developers who empathize with others, communicate effectively, and handle challenging situations are the most likely to thrive in team environments and build positive relationships with teammates, clients, and stakeholders.

Tech experts with a high level of EQ can stay calm and composed in the face of common development challenges, such as changing client demands and integration issues. They persevere through obstacles at work and stay focused on achieving company goals.

10. Self-awareness

Software developers must have a strong sense of self. To unlock their full potential, they must be capable of recognizing their strengths and weaknesses. They should be confident in what they know yet humble when they have an opportunity to learn.

Secure software developers are the most likely to advance in their careers because they don’t let their anxieties and self-doubt hold them back. They are always willing to recognize areas for improvement and then put in the effort to develop those skills. They are also not afraid to seek constructive feedback, proper training, and mentorship from seasoned professionals in the field.

Soft Skills, Strong Results: Find the Right Fit with Andela

Finding qualified software developers is challenging enough. But in addition to having solid technical skills, hiring managers should look for candidates with excellent developer soft skills. Often, the soft skills they bring to the job distinguish a good developer from a great one.

Partner with Andela if you’re having trouble finding developers with the right soft skills. We employ a rigorous vetting process to ensure you only meet and hire tech professionals with the skills and knowledge you need.

And we won’t just match you with the top candidates. We leverage human expertise and AI-powered technology to find you the best fit for the role, team dynamics, and company culture.

Build your dream team with Andela and scale your business with software developers you can trust and rely on.