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Software engineers provide an incredibly valuable service to their companies and clients, but it’s about a lot more than just coding. To be a good software engineer, one not only needs to be able to write great code, but also competently build, deliver and ship top-quality software.

The largest specialist recruitment firm in the software engineering world, Hays is committed to successfully matching employers and employees to allow them to innovate and create top-notch software. But first, there are a few important things to know in order to have a successful career in this growing industry.

What is a software engineer?

Being a good software engineer is one thing, but first, what does a software engineer do? Well, through writing code, a software engineer creates and designs computer applications and systems that are intended to solve problems in the real world.

Software engineers and software developers are often referred to interchangeably. However, the professions are not exactly the same as their focuses are slightly different. Therefore, what makes a good software engineer and what makes a good software developer are not quite the same!

The former is more focused on utilising the principles of engineering to build successful programs and applications. Meanwhile, the latter tends to focus a little more on the implementation of programs and designs.

How to be a good software engineer

As a highly skilled profession, being a software engineer requires all-round competence and proficiency – both technical and otherwise.

Important qualities of a successful software engineer

As we’ve discovered, being a software engineer requires a multifaceted skill set. Here are some of the most important software engineer qualities!

Technical knowledge

Being a good software engineer requires comprehensive knowledge of coding. It’s not imperative to know every programming language fluently. However, it goes without saying that what makes a good software engineer is being able to consistently write good code and deliver effective software of a high calibre.

Furthermore, being a competent full-stack developer is sure to set you apart from others in your field. Being a full-stack developer simply means having end-to-end proficiency – that is, not only being able to write excellent code in isolation, but being able to jump in and solve problems at any stage of application and system development.

Essentially, what makes a good software engineer is the ability to write good code and ensure that the software in question is effective at doing its job.

Attention to detail

Producing a large amount of code comes with the territory, but what makes a coder a great software engineer is keen attention to detail. Programming is fickle, and all it takes is one unhandled edge case to throw a spanner in the works.

Therefore, having a good eye for detail is an essential quality in a software engineer – whether it’s avoiding problems before they occur, or identifying them once they’re already causing issues!

A competent and experienced software engineer won’t rush to complete a job for the sake of it – often, this can lead to greater difficulty later on if things start to fall apart! Rather, gaining a deep and comprehensive understanding of the internals from the start will not only avoid such problems, but it will also make it easier to fix issues if they do happen to arise in the future.

A good software engineer will take notes while working and when done, review and test their code before moving on.

Flexibility and adaptability

In an ever-changing and developing industry, flexibility and adaptability are some of the most important software engineer qualities to have. One needs to be able to stay in touch with new technology and be a competent and diligent self-learner.

Being able to grasp new concepts quickly is essential. Furthermore, it’s also really important to be able to know just how much is necessary to learn in a given amount of time for a specific project!

Good communication and social skills

Contrary to stereotypes, successful software engineers are those that can function in a team and have good social skills.

The building and development of applications and systems is a collaborative effort. To be a standout software engineer and create top-quality software, one needs to be able to work within a team – have good communication and collaboration skills, be empathetic towards colleagues, and be a critical thinker with leadership qualities.

Discipline, commitment and determination

Coding comes with rigorous standards that need to be adhered to, as well as best practice and other regulations that need to be followed. In addition, the process can be time-consuming and frustrating, especially if you’re dealing with issues in the code or you’re trying to solve a complex problem.

This is why our list of software engineer skills includes being disciplined, committed and determined – patience is key!

Curiosity and a love for learning

What makes a good software engineer is the difference between simply getting the job done, as opposed to truly understanding how things operate at their very core. A successful software engineer has a desire to learn and understand the intricacies that go into producing the best software possible!

Of course, along with these qualities goes humility – being able to recognise when one’s methods are outdated or ineffective and responding appropriately.

Final thoughts on what makes a good software engineer

What separates a mediocre software engineer from an exceptional one is having a truly holistic approach.

In addition to technical skill, they should possess great attention to detail, flexibility and adaptability, good communication and social skills, discipline, commitment and determination, and most of all, an overarching curiosity and genuine love for learning.

While the profession requires great technical skills, software engineer excellence is about being a truly well-rounded professional.

If you are interested in becoming a software engineer or want to learn more about the industry, don’t hesitate to contact us.