·5 min read
How to Hire an MVP Developer (What to Look For)
Hiring the wrong developer is expensive in time and money. Here's how to find the right one.
What to Look For
- •Shipped products, not just code (link to live apps)
- •Experience with your type of product
- •Good communication in initial conversations
- •Asks smart questions about your business
- •Reasonable availability for your timeline
Interview Questions That Matter
- •"Show me 3 MVPs you've shipped in the last year"
- •"What's your process for the first week?"
- •"How do you handle scope changes mid-project?"
- •"What happens if you miss the deadline?"
- •"Can I talk to your last 2 clients?"
Red Flags
- •No live portfolio—only screenshots or code repos
- •Can't explain their process clearly
- •Price seems too good to be true
- •Promises features without understanding your needs
- •Poor communication in the sales process
- •No contract or unclear terms
- •"Yes" to everything (should push back sometimes)
Agency vs Freelancer
| Factor | Freelancer | Agency |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | $2,000-$8,000 | $5,000-$20,000+ |
| Speed | Often faster | More structured |
| Risk | Depends on individual | More backup capacity |
| Communication | Direct | Through PM |
| Ongoing support | Variable | Usually available |
How to Evaluate Portfolios
- •Visit the live sites—do they still work?
- •Check mobile responsiveness
- •Look for products similar to yours
- •Test the user flows—are they smooth?
- •Contact portfolio clients if possible
The Test Project Option
If you're unsure, offer a small paid test project (1-3 days). This reveals more than any interview.
The best predictor of future success is past success. Prioritize developers who've shipped MVPs that look like what you're building.