6 Ways To Find Software Developers for your startup.

How do I find software developers for my startup?

Depending on where you are in the stages of your startup, you are probably trying to build a Minimum Viable Product “MVP” or take your MVP from the prototype to the next iterations of development.

Some startups might have a few obstacles that may inhibit them from finding adequate help for their software development needs because of limited resources, budget, limited experience in hiring, competition with established companies, limited networks, or the hiring needs are not clear.

Here are some options to try to get around this obstacle. Some solutions might differ depending on company size, budgets, and urgency. In addition to this, these options have their pros and cons.

1. Interns: Some students are looking for projects for their portfolio to gain experience before they go into the workforce. If the startup begins to grow there might be opportunities for them to become permanent employees of the company later on.

A potential drawback to this is that interns can be less experienced and they are usually looking for opportunities to learn from leadership. While this can be an inexpensive option, it can run the risk of not adhering to your ideal timeline if there is too much trial and error in the software development life cycle depending on how complicated and nuanced your technology is.

2. Offshore Remote Teams: Another option can be to work with offshore remote teams or offshore agencies that can work collaboratively with you to meet your development needs.

A potential drawback to this can be communication issues, differences in time zones, ensuring the ownership of your intellectual property, and the inability to ensure quality.

3. Part-Time Employees: Part-Time employment can be a potential option for your start-up while allocating a certain amount of hours a week, so you can have some dedicated help.

A potential drawback to this can be limited availability and commitment to your project. Also, due to how competitive the landscape is to attract engineering talent there is the risk they will prioritize a full-time opportunity if the time comes.

4. Independent Contractors: Hiring a freelancer or independent contractor can help with specific projects or tasks as needed. Independent contractors can have potentially higher fees and usually have more agency and autonomy over how they execute their projects. There is also less control over their timeline and schedule. Since they are not an internal component of your startup, they can work their own hours and potentially take priority on other projects if they need to. In certain cases, some independent contractors might hand the work off to someone else (or sub-contract) in the hopes of getting the requirements completed before a deadline. In doing so, there can be a risk of quality being ensured.

5. Utilizing networks and communities: Some networking groups create opportunities to meet people who are also interested in startups and are looking to build something especially if there is alignment in the mission, vision, and other shared interests. In the midst of all this, there can be opportunities to create partnerships and involve other potential cofounders.

A potential drawback to this is that this can leave a lot up to chance and you might not be near a community where events like this are readily available to you.

6. Talent Acquisition Partnerships: Sometimes called headhunters or recruiters and can sometimes operate on an independent basis or work in conjunction with an agency. Recruitment services can be a good way to find talent based on a specific technical profile. Talent Acquisition Partners do the heavy lifting when it comes to sourcing, screening, and making sure they move along in the interview process smoothly while making sure the candidates are in alignment with the startup’s needs.

A potential drawback can be the cost of their services. Usually, headhunters operate on a retained fee or take a percentage of the annual salary as compensation for services completed. Another potential risk is making sure the vendor you are using is experienced in sourcing and can provide candidates that align with your needs.

In summary, there are pros, cons, and potential risks to every choice and you have to assess what might be the best option for you at the time.