3 overlooked career skills developers need for success

If you’re looking to become a software developer, it’s important to have soft skills, as well as technical proficiency.

Employers are always looking for IT professionals that are highly skilled in software development, but ensuring you have a range of soft (aka transferable) skills will help you stand out from the crowd.

What soft skills do I need as a developer?

It’s time to think about what soft skills you need to make yourself a standout candidate to potential employers. Soft skills are just as important as technical skills, but they’re not always as easy to learn! We’ve chosen three soft skills that you should focus on improving (if you haven’t already), so you can start building up your arsenal of soft skills.

1. Communication.

You might not realise it, but communication is a key part of being a great software developer. Communication is needed in all facets of development, from writing documentation for frameworks and libraries, to communication with co-workers and stakeholders. The ability to be able to communicate complex ideas and concepts with those around you means you’ll be a better collaborator, and a better employee.

If you’re able to listen to and express concerns, as well as explain your ideas for improving different projects, then you’ll find that you’re able to achieve much more than if you’re working in isolation. The ability to bounce ideas off those around you can’t be overstated, and it’s a skill that you’ll use every day, even if you don’t realise it.

2. Problem solving/creativity.

Problem solving/creativity will help you when you run into a seemingly unsolvable problem while working on your next piece of software. Is there a bug you can’t seem to fix, or a feature you can’t seem to implement? This is where your ability to think outside the box comes in.

As a developer, it’s helpful to be able to break down a big problem into bite-sized chunks and tackle those chunks one-by-one. In your career as a software developer, you’ll definitely encounter issues that you’ve never seen before, and being able to approach them in a way that gives you the best chance of success is something you’ll always value.

3. People skills.

In any workplace, people skills are crucial. In an ideal world, you won’t need to deal with conflict, but there are always going to be a range of personalities in the workplace, and it’s important to get along with everyone!

If you’re able to understand where your colleagues are coming from when confronted with a complex issue, you’ll be much more likely to be successful when trying to complete your next project. People skills also equip you with the ability to lead or manage a team if that’s something you’re looking to do as you progress up the career ladder. 

What other skills does a developer need to be successful?

While these soft skills are crucial, you can’t forget other important aspects of being a software developer! Some skills that you might not have thought about before, but can help you succeed in any workplace include:

• Your mathematical ability – you never know when it’ll come in handy to be able to quickly complete some mental arithmetic!
• Your attention to detail – one mistake can derail your code!
• Time management skills – being able to work to deadlines mean you’ll be able to handle multiple projects at any one time.

As your career progresses, you’ll find different skills that you want to work on, which is a good opportunity for both personal and professional development. The best software developers are always learning, because much like technology, they understand the importance of evolving.

How do I attain these skills?

A great way to improve your skills is through completing further education, like a course tailored towards the technology sector. It’s important to understand the syllabus of any course that you’re looking to complete, so you can check whether it’ll help you develop both technical and soft skills.

Upskilled’s ICT50120 - Diploma of Information Technology allows you to work in a simulated workplace, which means you’ll get to practice both technical and soft skills. It’s a great way to ensure you’ll be job-ready upon receiving your certificate.

What will I learn from the course?

As well as giving you the knowledge so you can embark on a career as a developer, you’ll also learn skills essential for the workplace. Some of the things you’ll learn while completing a ICT50120 - Diploma of Information Technology with Upskilled include:

• How to promote workplace cyber security awareness and best practices
• How to install and manage complex ICT networks
• How to gather, analyse and interpret threat data
• How to install and upgrade operating systems
• How to create dynamic web pages
• How to think critically
• How to lead and manage a team
• How to build emotional intelligence

Develop your soft skills and prepare for a career in software development

If you’re looking to become a software developer, then Upskilled’s ICT50120 - Diploma of Information Technology can set you on the right path. This nationally recognised course can provide you with both the technical expertise, as well as the soft skills, to succeed in any workplace. Looking for more information about the course? Get in touch with our education consultants on 1300 009 924 to learn more!