As a tech founder, you should avoid hiring wrongly. Finding the right programmer to bring an app idea to life is one of the most important steps in the app development journey.

Whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur or a first-time founder, securing the right talent can mean the difference between success and failure.

So make better decisions with these 11 proven tips to help you find a programmer for an app who not only has the technical skills but also understands your vision and business goals.

Content

• Why finding the right programmer for your app is important
• How To Find A Programmer For an App
• Top Platforms to Find Programmers for an App
• Summary

How To Find A Programmer For an App

Here are 11 key steps to take when you want to find a programmer for an app:

1. Define Your App’s Scope and Requirements
2. Look for Experience in Similar Projects
3. Choose the Right Platform for Hiring
4. Conduct a Thorough Technical Assessment
5. Prioritize Communication Skills
6. Consider Cultural Fit
7. Understand the Cost vs. Quality Trade-Off
8. Check References and Reviews
9. Assess Their Commitment to Continuous Learning
10. Ensure They Understand Your Business Goals
11. Start with a Trial Project

1. Define Your App’s Scope and Requirements

Before you even begin searching to find a programmer for an app, you must have a clear understanding of what you need. This includes defining the scope of your app, its core features, its target audience, and the problem it aims to solve.

Having a detailed requirements document is essential—it will not only help you communicate your vision to potential programmers but also ensure you find someone with the right skill set.

Key Considerations:

• What platforms will your app support? (iOS, Android, Web)
• What core features must your app include?
• What is your budget and timeline?
• Are there any specific technologies or programming languages required?

With a clear scope, you’ll be able to filter out candidates who don’t match your needs, saving time and ensuring that the programmer you hire can deliver exactly what you envision.

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2. Look for Experience in Similar Projects

Experience is key when it comes to app development. When you find a programmer for an app, prioritize those who have worked on similar projects.

A programmer with relevant experience will not only understand the technical requirements but also anticipate potential challenges. Look for candidates with a portfolio that includes apps similar in complexity and scope to yours.

Where to Look:

• Platform with well-vetted devs like Rocketdevs
• Online portfolios on platforms like GitHub, Behance, or personal websites.
• Reviews and case studies on freelancing sites like Upwork or Toptal.
• Recommendations from industry peers.
  
  

Pro Tip: When reviewing portfolios, don’t just look at the final product. Ask potential candidates about the challenges they faced during development and how they overcame them. This will give you insight into their problem-solving abilities.

3. Choose the Right Platform for Hiring

Depending on your budget, project size, and urgency, there are different platforms you can use to find a programmer:

Dedicated Developer Marketplaces:

• RocketDevs: A platform specifically designed for hiring vetted developers for various projects, particularly useful if you need someone quickly.
• Gun io: Connects you with top developers in the U.S. for freelance, contract-to-hire, or permanent positions.
  
  

Freelance Platforms:

• Upwork: Ideal for finding freelancers of all levels, with the option to review ratings and feedback from past clients.
• Toptal: Focuses on top-tier talent, ensuring that only the top 3% of freelancers are available.
• Freelancer: Similar to Upwork but with a larger pool of global talent.
  
  

Job Boards:

• Stack Overflow Jobs: This is popular among developers, where you can post job listings or search for developers actively seeking new opportunities.
• AngelList: Ideal for startups looking to find tech talent who might also be interested in equity compensation.

4. Conduct a Thorough Technical Assessment

While it might be tempting to go for the cheapest option, especially if you’re on a tight budget, it’s important to understand the cost vs. quality trade-off.

When you find a programmer for an app a lower rate might save you money upfront, but it could cost you more in the long run if the programmer lacks experience or delivers subpar work.

Assessment Methods:

• Coding Tests: Use platforms like HackerRank, Codility, or LeetCode to set coding challenges that reflect the kind of work they’ll be doing.
• Technical Interviews: Conduct live coding sessions or problem-solving interviews to assess their thought process, coding style, and ability to handle real-world scenarios.
• Review Past Work: If the programmer has open-source projects or contributions on platforms like GitHub, you can review their code for quality, readability, and efficiency.
  
  

Pro Tip: Make sure the technical assessments are directly relevant to the work they’ll be doing on your app. If your app requires complex algorithms, include a challenge that tests algorithmic thinking. If it’s heavy on UI/UX, include a design problem.

5. Prioritize Communication Skills

A programmer’s ability to communicate effectively is just as important as their technical skills. They need to understand your requirements, provide updates, and discuss any challenges that arise during development.

Poor communication can lead to misunderstandings, delays, and ultimately, a product that doesn’t meet your expectations.

What to Look For:

• Clarity: Can they explain technical concepts in simple terms?
• Responsiveness: How quickly do they respond to emails or messages?
• Proactivity: Do they ask questions or suggest improvements to your ideas?
  
  

Pro Tip: During the interview process, pay close attention to how the programmer communicates. If there’s a language barrier or if they struggle to explain their thoughts clearly, it might be a red flag.

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6. Consider Cultural Fit

Cultural fit goes beyond just aligning with your company’s values; it’s about finding someone who understands and respects the way you work. If you’re hiring remotely, consider time zone differences, working hours, and the programmer’s experience with remote work.

Key Considerations:

• Work Ethic: Do they take ownership of their work and demonstrate a strong commitment to deadlines?
• Collaboration: Are they comfortable working with a team, and do they value feedback?
• Adaptability: How well do they handle changes in scope or unexpected challenges?
  
  

Pro Tip: If possible, start with a smaller project or a trial period to see how well the programmer fits with your team’s culture. This can save you from potential conflicts down the road.

7. Understand the Cost vs. Quality Trade-Off

While it might be tempting to go for the cheapest option, especially if you’re on a tight budget, it’s important to understand the cost vs. quality trade-off.

If you’re trying to find a programmer for an app, a lower rate might save you money upfront, but it could cost you more in the long run if the programmer lacks experience or delivers subpar work.

You can look at it this way:

• Hourly Rates vs. Fixed-Price Projects: Decide whether you prefer to pay by the hour or agree on a fixed price for the entire project. Fixed-price projects can help you avoid budget overruns, but they require a very clear and detailed scope.
• Long-Term Costs: A higher-quality programmer might cost more initially, but they can save you time and money by delivering a product that requires less rework or maintenance.
• Negotiation: Don’t be afraid to negotiate. Experienced programmers may be willing to adjust their rates if they’re excited about your project or if you’re offering long-term work.
  
  

Pro Tip: When budgeting, include a buffer for unexpected expenses. App development can be unpredictable, and it’s better to be prepared for additional costs than to be caught off guard.

8. Check References and Reviews

Before making a final decision, always check references and reviews from previous clients or employers. This step is important for verifying the programmer’s experience, work ethic, and ability to deliver on their promises.

What you should Ask:

• Were they able to meet deadlines?
• How did they handle challenges or setbacks?
• Would you work with them again?
• How well did they communicate throughout the project?
  
  

Pro Tip: Don’t just rely on written reviews—try to speak with past clients or employers directly. A quick phone call or video chat can provide much deeper insights than a written review.

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9. Assess Their Commitment to Continuous Learning

The tech world evolves rapidly, and the best programmers are those who continuously update their skills and knowledge. When you set out to find a programmer for an app, consider asking candidates about the last course they took, the conference they attended, or the new technology they’ve learned.

What to Look For:

• Curiosity: Do they enjoy learning new things and keeping up with industry trends?
• Certifications: Do they have certifications in relevant programming languages, frameworks, or tools?
• Personal Projects: Are they involved in open-source projects or personal coding challenges?
  
  

Pro Tip: A programmer who is committed to continuous learning is more likely to bring innovative solutions to your project and adapt to new challenges.

10. Ensure They Understand Your Business Goals

A great programmer does more than just write code—they understand your business goals and work to achieve them through the app they’re building. During the interview process, discuss your long-term vision and how the app fits into your overall business strategy.

Key Questions to Ask:

• How do you approach understanding a client’s business needs?
• Have you ever contributed to product strategy or suggested features that were outside the original scope?
• How do you balance technical excellence with business objectives?
  
  

Pro Tip: Look for a programmer who asks insightful questions about your business, your target audience, and the problem your app is solving. This shows that they’re thinking beyond the code and considering the bigger picture.

11. Start with a Trial Project

To find a programmer for an app, before committing to a long-term contract, it’s wise to start with a smaller, paid trial project. This allows you to evaluate the programmer’s skills, communication, and fit with your team without the risk of a full-scale commitment.

Trial Project Ideas:

• Prototype Development: Ask them to build a simple prototype or a single feature of your app.
• Code Review: Have them review and optimize existing code.
• UI/UX Implementation: Assign a small design-to-code task to assess their attention to detail.
  
  

Pro Tip: Clearly define the scope, timeline, and deliverables for the trial project, and treat it like a real project. This will give you the most accurate representation.

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Top Platforms to Find A Programmer for an App

1. RocketDevs
2. Upwork
3. Toptal
4. LinkedIn
5. GitHub Jobs
6. Stack Overflow Jobs
7. AngelList
8. Freelancer
9. Fiverr

There are numerous platforms where you can find talented programmers. However, not all platforms are created equal. Below are some of the best places to find programmers who can help bring your app idea to life.

1. RocketDevs

RocketDevs is a specialized platform for hiring developers, similar to Toptal and Turing. Whether you need to find a programmer for an app or a complex software project, RocketDevs provides access to a pool of well-vetted, ready-to-work developers, making it an excellent choice for businesses needing skilled programmers quickly.

RocketDevs focuses on quality, ensuring that every developer on their platform meets high standards of expertise and professionalism.

Pros:

• Access to high-quality, pre-vetted developers.
• Efficient hiring process tailored to the needs of tech companies.
• Developers are ready to start work immediately, reducing onboarding time.
  
  

Cons:

• The platform specializes in tech talent, which might not cover other project needs like design or marketing.
  
  

Tips for Success:

• Utilize RocketDevs for projects where quality and speed are critical.
• Clearly define your project requirements to ensure the best match with developers.
• Take advantage of RocketDevs’ vetting process to focus on the candidates who truly align with your project goals.

2. Upwork

Upwork is one of the largest freelance platforms in the world, offering access to a vast pool of developers with diverse skills.

Whether you’re looking for a front-end developer, a back-end developer, or someone with expertise in a specific programming language, Upwork has you covered.

Pros:

• Large talent pool with freelancers from all over the world.
• Flexible pricing options—hire per project or per hour.
• Ability to review previous client feedback and ratings.
  
  

Cons:

• The vast number of freelancers can make it overwhelming to find the right candidate.
• Quality can vary, so thorough vetting is essential.
  
  

Tips for Success:

• Clearly define your project scope and expectations in the job posting.
• Look for freelancers with a strong portfolio and positive feedback.
• Consider conducting a small paid test project before committing to a long-term contract.

3. Toptal

Toptal is known for connecting companies with the top 3% of freelancers worldwide. Whether you’re looking to find a programmer for an app or need experts in other fields, the platform’s rigorous vetting process ensures that only the best make it onto their roster.

Pros:

• Access to elite developers
• Pre-vetted talent.
• Focus on quality over quantity.
  
  

Cons:

• Higher cost compared to other platforms.
• Smaller talent pool due to the selective vetting process.
  
  

Tips for Success:

• If budget allows, Toptal is an okay choice for high-stakes projects where quality is non-negotiable.
• Communicate clearly with your assigned Toptal representative to ensure they match you with the best candidate.

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4. LinkedIn

LinkedIn is more than just a social networking site; it’s a powerful tool for finding and connecting with top-tier professionals. Whether you’re looking to find a programmer for an app or other specialized talent, LinkedIn’s advanced search capabilities allow you to filter candidates based on location, experience, skills, and more.

Pros:

• Direct access to a wide network of professionals.
• The ability to see mutual connections and recommendations.
• InMail feature allows you to reach out to candidates directly.
  
  

Cons:

• Requires more proactive effort compared to freelance platforms.
• Candidates might not be actively looking for jobs.
  
  

Tips for Success:

• Use LinkedIn’s advanced search filters to narrow down your candidate pool.
• Consider posting your job in relevant LinkedIn groups for greater visibility.
• Personalized messages can increase your chances of getting a positive response.

5. GitHub Jobs

GitHub is a haven for developers, making it an excellent place to find programming talent. GitHub Jobs allows you to post job listings that are visible to the platform’s community of developers.

Pros:

• Access to developers who are actively engaged in coding and open-source projects.
• Ability to review candidates’ GitHub profiles and contributions to assess their skills.
  
  

Cons:

• Primarily attracts developers who are already part of the GitHub community.
• Limited to job postings; no freelancing options.
  
  

Tips for Success:

• Encourage candidates to include their GitHub profiles in their applications so you can review their work.
• Engage with potential candidates by commenting on or contributing to their open-source projects.

6. Stack Overflow Jobs

Stack Overflow is another platform popular among developers. Known for its Q&A community, Stack Overflow also offers a job board where you can find skilled programmers.

Pros:

• Access to a highly engaged community of developers.
• Candidates are often active contributors to the Stack Overflow community, showcasing their expertise.
  
  

Cons:

• Highly competitive, with many companies vying for top talent.
• Best suited for permanent hires rather than freelance work.
  
  

Tips for Success:

• Craft a detailed job description that highlights the unique aspects of your project.
• Engage with candidates by participating in Stack Overflow discussions.

7. AngelList

AngelList is a platform specifically designed for startups, making it an ideal place to find a programmer for an app and developers interested in entrepreneurial ventures. It’s also a great place to find talent open to equity-based compensation.

Pros:

• Focused on startup culture, attracting developers who are passionate about innovation.
• Flexible compensation options, including salary and equity.
  
  

Cons:

• Smaller talent pool compared to larger platforms.
• May attract candidates looking for startup opportunities rather than short-term projects.
  
  

Tips for Success:

• Clearly communicate your startup’s mission and vision to attract like-minded developers.
• Offer competitive equity packages to attract top talent.

8. Freelancer

Freelancer is another popular platform that connects businesses with freelancers across various disciplines, including programming. It offers a competitive marketplace where you can post your project and receive bids from interested developers.

Pros:

• Wide range of freelancers with varying levels of experience.
• Budget-friendly options with the ability to negotiate pricing.
  
  

Cons:

• Quality can vary significantly, requiring thorough vetting.
• The bidding process can sometimes lead to underqualified candidates vying for projects.
  
  

Tips for Success:

• Don’t automatically go for the lowest bid—focus on quality and experience.
• Ask for work samples or a portfolio to assess the freelancer’s capabilities.

9. Fiverr

Fiverr is known for its ‘gig’ economy, offering a range of services at different price points. Whether you’re looking to find a programmer for an app or need assistance with smaller tasks, Fiverr also has a section dedicated to higher-end, professional services, including app development.

Pros:

• Affordable options for smaller projects or specific tasks.
• The ability to see upfront pricing and clear deliverables.
  
  

Cons:

• May not be the best platform for large-scale, complex projects.
• Quality can vary, especially at lower price points.
  
  

Tips for Success:

• Look for Fiverr Pro sellers who are vetted for quality and professionalism.
• Clearly outline your project needs and expectations before hiring.

Conclusion

It’s best to find a great programmer who can check most, if not all of these boxes, and where better to find one than RocketDevs? Do you want to find a programmer for an app? Let’s help you get started. Try RocketDevs now