Introduction
Having been a software developer for a few years, I have to say that my favorite job offers or postings are those that guarantee their idea is revolutionary and as a developer I would be crazy to not want to get in on the ground floor.
Now I am not going to say that all startups are bad because clearly our industry has proven this point wrong.
What I do want to explain is that as a developer, I am sure many others get this pitch sometimes too often. So recently, when I was approached by a previous co-worker looking for a developer to work on their new idea, I tried to take some time to share some advice before turning down their offer.
DISCLAIMER – I know this person and while I am certain that their idea probably has some merit to it, lately my time is filled with the workings of my own ideas on top of my normal work schedule and of course the schedule of a parent with a child whose day almost never seems to end after school activities.
First and foremost, you need to understand the simple fact that developers are regularly pitched the line about the next greatest idea. Don’t be discouraged if we don’t share your enthusiasm. Rather change your approach, remember that you need to sell your idea to us just like you would a potential investor or future customer.
Back when I was in college, I wanted to get this part-time sales job because the hours were perfect and the commission was awesome. I learned their product (even better than the manager who interviewed me), was dressed to impress for the interview and attempted to wow with my knowledge.
At the end of the interview, the manager asked me one simple question. “What is the most important skill of a salesperson?”
Stumped at first, the answer seemed simple, they had to know the product.
Wrong!!! The most important skill to a salesperson is to become their clients friend so as to build a level of trust when completing the deal. The interviewing manager sat down with me and explained as best as could be done to an 18 year old who knew everything at the time.
So first things first, try to become friends with the development community and do so in a manner that doesn’t paint you as that creepy uncle who buys pizza for everyone. Take some time and learn the things we like to do and take an interest in us as much as you want us to take in your idea.
The next piece of advice should be simple and hopefully already be something you are doing.
Network, network, network.
I had recommended to my friend that they should try some of the local entrepreneurial events happening in our area.
Startup Weekend - I attended/competed one of these events a couple of years ago and let me say that it was a blast. There is an even mix of people who are developers, marketers, sales and everyone else you can think of starting a company with. What makes these events successful is that from the very beginning a team is built which shares in the idea that the company they are building is the next greatest thing.
! Million Cups (1MC) – So while I have not attended my own local meet-up, the positive feedback I hear from the community is that this is a must for new entrepreneurs. It ties back to the original idea of networking.
Hackathons – Ok, so I know that some of you are probably thinking this would be a great event to meet developers and pitch your idea. While I can’t speak for all developers at these events, I can share with you my personal belief. I am at the event to hangout with people who love developing software as much as I do. An unwelcome approach at an event like this will automatically land you in that creepy uncle category I mentioned earlier.
Finally, if a developer is going to dedicate their free time towards your project then you should understand that they will expect to be an equal partner in the adventure. You may have come up with the idea but we were the ones who transformed your idea into a tangible thing.
Take these recommendations and use or pursue them however you choose. I am sure that along the way, more will be learned but hopefully this will get you started. I normally sign-off by saying “Happy Coding” but instead let me say this…
Happy entrepreneuring and best of luck in making your idea a revolutionary one.
