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5 tips on how to attract and retain software developers


A software developer is one of the most in-demand job roles in 2022, it is also considered a highly skilled job and therefore the candidate pool might not be very big. If you want to attract software developers, it is important to make sure you are offering the right sort of package and company benefits. Retention is also just as important within companies, as engaged employees are more likely to be productive and want to help the company succeed.

We have put together a list of 5 tips to help your company stand out from the crowd, and attract the right candidates:

1. Write a compelling job advert

If you want to attract the best talent, you will need to write an appealing job description. Be sure to know what type of role you are recruiting for and think of what benefits might appeal to them the most. For example, if you are hiring a junior software developer, prospects of personal development and courses may seem more appealing to them. However, a more senior software developer may be looking for flexible hours and a work-life balance.

If you already have a tech team, look to them to help you write a suitable job description, as any incorrect language could put off high-quality candidates.

Click here for more tips on writing an IT job ad.

2. Highlight your employer’s branding and company mission

A lot of companies are transforming digitally and therefore their tech teams are becoming their most important asset. Software developers are often self-starters and motivated individuals, and therefore they to know their work is going to have an impact on a company’s success.

Click here to read more on employer branding to attract tech talent

3. Do you offer non-traditional job benefits?

Salary is often important, and companies need to make sure they are meeting the industry average salary in order to stand a chance at attracting tech talent. However, companies need to think beyond this in order to stand out amongst other employers.

For example:

  • Flexible working opportunities that help employees achieve a work-life balance.
  • Unlimited PTO, or paid leave for new parents
  • Gym membership reimbursement
  • Well-being programs

4. Why is creative freedom important?

Software developers are often creative individuals who enjoy problem-solving. Therefore, it is important for them to have the opportunity to be creative within the projects you give them. Obviously, developers will need to comply with company guidelines, but it is important to reassure them that they will be trusted to get on with the role and not be micromanaged.

5. Make sure you can provide ongoing training support and opportunities.

Software developers are already skilled, but with developing technologies they will want to make sure they keep on top of trends and innovations. Any enthusiastic software developers will want to know their employers are willing to invest in them and help them excel in their field. Whether that’s training them to use relevant modern technologies or encouraging them to enrol on an educational course, both employer and employee will reap the benefits.

These are just some of the points to consider when trying to attract and retain developers. When hiring in 2022, it is important to go beyond the job role and think about the individual and the type of person you think would fit in with your company.