During my career, I had the pleasure to interview more than 300 engineers.

Throughout my experience, I came across an important finding that always stood out with engineers that were successful in the role after they joined the team.

They were all great engineers, but what made them great was not just their technical expertise, but their soft skills.

When I’m interviewing a new engineer I value soft skills more than technical expertise.

Unless I’m hiring for a strict expert in a particular technology, I normally look for engineers that can reasonably articulate things and can demonstrate drive, motivation for learning, as well as being a good team player.

The reason for this, as said above is that teams build great software, not individuals.

I am a big believer in hiring people that can make others around them better, not just focus on their individual contribution.

If everyone makes everyone around them better, we are all exponentially growing. There is no better environment to be in where everyone is always there to help and support you.

What are your thoughts?

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