The Changelog: Software Development, Open Source

Principles for hiring engineers (Interview)

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.

01:17:59

Creator website

Episode guests

Jacob Kaplan-Moss

Highlights

AI Chapters

Episode notes

The Broken Practice of Using Algorithms Exercises as Proxies for Programming Skill

01:54

The Compensation of Time

01:20

How to Offer Exercises Late in the Hiring Process

01:28

Intro

3min

Rethinking Tech Hiring Practices

20min

Tailoring Hiring Assessments

8min

Hiring Engineers: Effective Work Sample Strategies

11min

Navigating the Complexities of Hiring Decisions

5min

Enhancing Candidate Experience in Hiring

20min

Revolutionizing Code Reviews in Interviews

6min

Enhancing Hiring Practices Through Shared Insights

5min

This week we’re joined by Jacob Kaplan-Moss and we’re talking about his extensive writing on work sample tests. These tests are an exercise, a simulation, or a small slice of real day-to-day work that candidates will perform as part of their job. Over the years, as an engineering leader, Jacob has become a practicing expert in effectively hiring engineers — today he shares a wealth of knowledge on the subject.

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Featuring:

Jacob Kaplan-Moss – Website, Mastodon, X
Adam Stacoviak – Website, GitHub, LinkedIn, Mastodon, X
Jerod Santo – GitHub, LinkedIn, Mastodon, X

Show Notes:

Something missing or broken? PRs welcome!

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