The simplicity and versatility of Python have made it one of the most popular and easy-to-learn programming languages in the world. Numerous major companies rely on Python to create websites, and software, conduct data analysis and automate tasks. Since it is a general-purpose language, programmers can use it to create a variety of unique programs.
These reasons make a Python developer one of the most sought-after roles. Global companies are looking to hire Python developers to create next-gen solutions. However, hiring a Python developer can be challenging, as there are so many professionals skilled in the language. If you are a business looking for Python developers in India, use this checklist to find the ideal candidate.
Checklist For Hiring Python Developers
1. Understand the goals of the company and why you need a developer
You must have a clear idea of the goals of the developer, expectations from them, and their value addition to the business. In simple words, introspect what you exactly want from the Python developer amidst a specific project, what skills you desire, the time duration of the contract, etc. Communicating these objectives clearly will give the developer much-needed context of their role and how they can contribute more.
2. Check the experience of the candidate in Python
Experience is the most important facet of a candidate. It speaks volumes about the candidate’s ability to work on diverse projects and their work patterns. With experience, prioritize the kind of projects/work the candidate has over their years of experience.
3. Mention the necessary qualifications in the job description
When you are sure of the profile you need, note down the expectations and your offer for the ideal candidate. These may include a high-school diploma, a bachelor’s degree, a professional-level diploma, or a certificate from a reputable institute. List them down and add “nice to have” wherever necessary.
4. Rank the required skills by their preference
Once you are ready with the portfolio experience, it is time to note down the skills the candidate must possess to deal with the projects of your organization. Of course, a good command of Python is the first detail you will mention. Other skills you may want to add can be:
- Data structures
- Fundamental of CVS
- Any popular web framework
- Object-oriented Programming (OOPs)
- Cloud computing services
Aside from technical skills, you can also include interpersonal skills such as good communication, team-building, and leadership.
5. Advertise the job description
After creating the job description, advertise it on social media and other job portals so candidates can view them, assess themselves, and apply for the role. The social media site LinkedIn is the most common platform for advertising a vacancy. You can add the details of the job post separately and also share it with your network in the feed. Ask your network to re-share the post in their feed to leverage the wide outreach of the platform.
6. Conduct a skills assessment test
Resumes are good for understanding a candidate’s qualifications for the job role. However, you must assess their ability to perform in difficult situations. Hence, it is advised to create a subtle assessment test that helps in shedding more light on the candidate’s suitability for the role. Once the candidate clears the assessment test, they are almost the ideal profile you are looking for.
7. Conduct a final round of video interview
Once you are sure of the candidate’s abilities to tackle difficult problems, join them in a video interview to understand their enthusiasm and discuss their workflow. Since the candidate is joining a new team, it is important to ensure they are a cultural fit and add a new dimension to the department. Talk to them about their approach to their tasks, how they write clean codes, and how up-to-date they are about the latest developments in Python.
Common Questions To Ask In The Interview
To find your ideal candidate for Python development, consider asking the following questions during the interview:
- What are the biggest benefits of using Python?
Answer to expect: A summary of the benefits –
- Python has a very simple syntax
- Coding is quick and easy in Python
- Data analysis is faster
- The community support is great
- Python offers numerous code editor types
- What is a dynamically-typed language?
Answer to expect: A dynamic-typed language is one in which the interpreter generates variables a type at runtime based on the variable’s value at that particular moment.
- What is Scope in Python?
Answer to expect: Scope refers to the particular coding area where the variables are displayed. It determines the accessibility of a Python object. The scope cannot be accessed from any place in the program and must be declared to access the specific variable in the code.
- What is PEP 8, and why is it important?
Answer to expect: PEP 8, also known as PEP8 or PEP-8, is a document that suggests best practices for creating Python code. It was written by Guido van Rossum, Barry Warsaw, and Nic Coghlan in 2001. Every Python developer must understand PEP 8 since it helps in making the Python code more consistent and readable.
- Define a pass statement
Answer to expect: A passing statement helps in avoiding errors when an empty code is prohibited. It is essential in loop declarations, class definitions, function definitions, or statements where empty code is permitted.
- How does Python manage memory?
Answer to expect: Python leverages a private heap that contains all the necessary objects and data structures for managing memory. The Python memory manager administers the private heap.
- What are SOLID principles?
Answer to expect: SOLID is an abbreviation for the first five object-oriented design (OOD) principles laid down by Robert C. Market. The full form of SOLID is:
S: Single-responsibility Principle
O: Open-closed Principle
L: Liskov Substitution Principle
I: Interface Segregation Principle
D: Dependency Inversion Principle
- What is the Zen of Python?
Answer to expect: The Zen of Python is a set of 19 guiding principles for designing the Python programming language.
- How to create a class in Python?
Answer to expect: To create a class in Python, use the command class and follow it up with the class name. The syntax is:
class ClassName:
#statement_suite
Key Takeaway
This checklist will guide you in finding the right Python developer. You can also use this checklist to create a formal hiring process. Python is one of the most sought-after programming languages; hence finding the right candidate for your company may take some time. Use your network wisely to advertise the job vacancy, and always assess the skills of the candidate before leading them to the final round of the interview. Additionally, if you’re short on time to search for a qualified specialist, it’s wise not to rely on chance. You can partner with a Python development outsourcing company, which presents a valuable opportunity for your business. These firms employ a team of experts and they ensure the success of your projects, aligning them with industry best practices, all while delivering cost savings compared to in-house development
The choice between an in-house team and outsourcing is significant, but regardless of your decision, the key factor is to ensure that you find professionals who are highly competent in their work.
