What is Next.js?
Next.js is a React framework offering huge success for building applications. The framework comes with multiple built-in features.
It comes with an intuitive page-based routing system to support dynamic routes. It allows pre-rendering, including both server-side and static generation rendering on a per-page basis.
The automatic code splitting ensures fast page loading speed. Node.js also allows client-side routing with optimized prefetching.
Node.js also comes with built-in Sass and CSS support. It also offers support to different CSS-in-JS libraries.
What to Look for in a Next.js Developer?
You should look for the following while hiring a Next.js developer:
-
A bachelor’s degree in computer science
-
A postgraduate degree in computer science (preferable)
-
Familiarity with different concepts like code-splitting, static pre-rendering, and universal applications
-
Node.js expertise as a backend developer
-
Next.js expertise as a front-end developer
-
A background in developing using ReactJS
-
Ability to build responsive and well-structured UIs for web-based apps
What Should You Know Before Hiring a Next.js Developer?
Before hiring a Next.js developer, you should know that it helps improve SEO and performance. Node.js developers can easily build efficient programs.
Single-page applications can cause problems related to marketing. Their loading time is a concern.
Search engines find it difficult to extract information due to the slow loading time. But Node.js has the capacity to fix this issue.
The simple and small framework includes static side generation as well as server-side rendering.
Around a decade ago, there was a huge buzz surrounding static websites. But it’s still useful for some websites.
Next.js is great for enjoying the benefits of a static website. A Next.js developer will ensure that everything is run smoothly.
Skills to Look for in a Next.js Developer
The skills required to become a Next.js developer are as follows:
Knowledge About JavaScript
Next.js developers require an in-depth understanding of JavaScript. Any candidate who is clueless about JavaScript is not suitable for the job.
Both React and Next.js have JavaScript as the fundamental programming language. An efficient Next.js developer will be familiar with every JavaScript programming concept.
Cross-Platform Compatibility Proficiency
Software developers must always remain updated about the latest happenings in the technological world. They should be familiar with the compatibility issues of different browsers and platforms.
It will ensure that developers will know how to replicate their work on different browsers using new technologies.
Node.js developers must be ready to offer solutions using new resources. It will guarantee fast and error-free development.
Knowledge About Databases
Knowing how to write clean codes isn’t enough for running applications. A database will be necessary for storing data and hosting the app.
Next.js developers should be experienced in working with different databases. Some popular databases for Node.js developers include SQL, Apache, Cassandra, Oracle, and MongoDB.
Experience in Working with React
Every Next.js developer should have adequate knowledge about React. It has become one of the most trustworthy JavaScript Libraries.
It was developed by Facebook to resolve issues associated with other JavaScript libraries. Some relevant working experience with React gives an edge to Next.js developers.
Version Control Knowledge
The knowledge of version control is also a top skill for Next.js developers. Next.js developers are often expected to work in cross-functional, front-end, and backend teams.
Working in teams requires synchronization and top-quality version control. A global experience with Git and related platforms is a plus point.
Steps to Hire Next.js Developers
The steps for hiring Next.js developers are as follows:
1. Assess the Personality
You must ask about the strengths and weaknesses of the candidates. You should also take an interest in their hobbies and favorite leisure time activities.
Assessing the personality of candidates will help you understand whether they are the right fit for your organization.
2. Consider Soft Skills
Apart from the technical skills of candidates, you should also evaluate their soft skills. For instance, you need to find out their ability to work under pressure.
You should also evaluate their communication skills. They must communicate efficiently, especially while working in teams.
3. Ask Industry-Relevant Questions
You can ask industry-relevant questions like the following:
-
Can you describe some of the top features of Next.js?
-
Do you know how to disable etag generation in Next.js?
-
Can you set up a CDN in Next.js?
The questions will help you assess the technical knowledge of the candidates.
