WordPress Development: An Introduction
WordPress is an open-source content management system (CMS) used to create websites, blogs or applications. It is written in PHP (Hypertext Preprocessor), a scripting language used in web development. WordPress has features such as plugin architecture and templates.
A WordPress developer is an expert who uses the WordPress system to build websites and applications. WordPress developers build user-friendly and interactive websites and take care of front-end and back-end development.
How to Hire WordPress Developer?
Firstly, assess the scope of the project. Hire WordPress developer who has the right technical and soft skills for the job. Hire a developer who has skills in both server-side and client-side languages. Look for a WordPress developer who is creative and can communicate well. Assess candidate resumes. Conduct skill tests and interview them before hiring. Before all these steps, post your requirement on a tech hiring platform so you can choose from a pool of talented WordPress developers.
Things to Consider Before You Hire WordPress Developer
Before you hire WordPress developer, decide what kind of developer you are looking at, in terms of experience. Decide whether you need a mid-level, senior or junior WordPress developer. Do you need a developer for a single client or a variety of clients? Hire according to the needs of the project.
Also, assess the client base you have. Evaluate the kind of websites or applications you need to build. Match the requirements with the comfort level of the WordPress developer. Hire WordPress developer who understands different industries and the needs of end-users.
Always stay updated about the latest trends in WordPress development. This helps you make a sound hiring decision. For instance, voice search has evolved to become a key trend in WordPress development. Understanding user preferences when building a website and thinking of how to integrate voice search helps. Also, building mobile-first WordPress sites which are responsive is a trend that’s caught on. This is because of the emergence of smartphones as the drivers of online shopping and content consumption.
Skills to Keep in Mind When You Hire Top WordPress Developer
HTML and CSS
Hypertext Markup Language or HTML is what defines your WordPress site’s structure. Expertise in HTML is important when you hire top WordPress developer. Also, knowledge of Cascading Style Sheets or CSS is important. CSS dictates the visual appeal of a website.
JavaScript
JavaScript is a language that helps bring an element of interactivity into a WordPress site. Familiarity with JavaScript and its frameworks is essential.
PHP
Hypertext Preprocessor or PHP is the language that WordPress is built on. Knowledge of PHP helps the WordPress developer to connect the database with the user interface portion of the website.
SQL/MySQL
Understanding of how databases work and learning SQL (Structured Query Language) helps in troubleshooting. MySQL is a SQL-based relational database management system used in e-commerce applications and data warehousing. WordPress developers may use MySQL to store data like plugin information or users among others. Knowledge of the same is good to have.
Bootstrap
Bootstrap is a framework used for the front-end, and helps design user interfaces. It helps create mobile-first apps and websites. Consider the knowledge of Bootstrap when you hire top WordPress developer.
Git/Version Control
Familiarity with version control systems like Git helps developers track multiple versions of code and track changes.
SEO
Search engine optimization knowledge is another useful skill. It helps developers optimise WordPress sites and fetch higher search engine rankings.
Command Line Interface
Command line interface is a user interface that’s text-based. It helps run programs and operating systems. It allows users to type in commands to interact with an OS. The CLI used for WordPress is WP-CLI. It helps you run WP commands. Familiarity with the WP-CLI tools is useful.
Soft Skills
The WordPress developer needs to have a range of soft skills. These include innovative thinking, creativity, good communication skills and ability to present ideas well.
Steps to Hire WordPress Developer
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The first step is to write a clear job description. Detail the responsibilities of the WordPress developer. Also, include everyday tasks and job title for the benefit of the applicant.
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The next step when you look to hire WordPress developer is to invite applications for the role by posting on a tech hiring platform.
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Screen candidate resumes for matching technical skill sets and non-technical skills.
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Look for the work experience of the candidate, apart from educational qualifications.
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Next, conduct a skill assessment test to evaluate the WordPress developer. This helps you assess if the candidate can solve problems quickly under pressure.
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Conduct interviews of screened candidates. Ask questions pertaining to WordPress development. Also, assess the candidates’ ability to communicate well.
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Once you have zeroed in on the right candidate, send out an offer letter with terms and conditions. Also, include the salary structure with the offer letter.
How to Identify Reliable and Experienced WordPress Developer?
Ask the WordPress developer to provide references from previous workplaces. Talk to the references to find out more about the reliability of the developer. Find out about their ability to meet deadlines, work in a team or lead a team if need be.
A good way to identify a reliable and experienced WordPress developer is by looking at work samples.
Assess the candidate’s level of expertise and experience from the work they have done in the past. You may also evaluate qualities like attention to detail and ability to innovate. These qualities improve over time so it is easier to spot a candidate with experience by looking at work samples.
Ask the candidate about their career path and find out about their career goals and objectives. This helps you assess if the WordPress developer is committed to giving their best at the role you are hiring for.
