The Changelog: Software Development, Open Source Principles for hiring engineers (Interview)
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Feb 8, 2022 Jacob Kaplan-Moss, software developer and co-creator of Django, shares his insights on effective engineering hiring practices. He emphasizes the importance of work sample tests as authentic simulations of real job tasks. Jacob critiques traditional interview methods and discusses tailoring assessments to match specific roles. He introduces eight key principles for hiring engineers, advocating for a respectful candidate experience. Additionally, he explores the innovative idea of reverse code reviews as a method to enhance evaluations while ensuring a focus on both technical and interpersonal skills.
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The Near-Quitting Team
- Jacob Kaplan-Moss highlights a past hiring mistake where a bad hire almost led to his team quitting.
- This experience motivated him to create better hiring processes.
Interviews Aren't Enough
- Interviews alone are insufficient for evaluating technical skills; work sample tests are crucial.
- Work sample tests provide a better way to assess actual coding abilities compared to traditional interview questions.
Simulate Real Work
- Design work sample tests that closely resemble real work tasks to assess job-relevant skills.
- Avoid generic tests; tailor them to your specific needs.
