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In the ever-evolving landscape of technology, the individuals who power this sector possess a unique set of personality traits that distinguish them from other professionals. From their problem-solving prowess to their insatiable curiosity, tech talent (technology professionals) exhibit distinct characteristics that contribute to their success in the digital realm.

As Recruiters who work closely with tech talent such as software developers, programmers, database system and computer and information system managers, we discovered that a number of the personality traits that make tech talent exceptional at what they do are often traits that other professionals may typically view as red flags. These stand-out traits allow them to view the world through a different lens while enabling them to navigate the digital world with a unique agility and perspective. Understanding these traits is essential for any organisation looking to hire tech talent.

Common green flag traits of tech talent may include their inherent curiosity and thirst for knowledge. They possess a relentless drive to explore new technologies, methodologies, and frameworks. This insatiable curiosity often leads them to seek new challenges and push the boundaries of what is possible.

Tech professionals, in general, also exhibit a high level of adaptability and resilience. In an industry where change is the only constant, they thrive in dynamic environments and enthusiastically embrace new opportunities. Furthermore, they tend to be natural problem solvers. They have analytical minds capable of breaking down complex issues and devising elegant solutions.

Through our work with several clients seeking Tech professionals with specific skills and expertise, we at Roundpeg Talent have noted several apparent red-flag traits that are actually green flags in the tech world. For instance, an individual who might seem apprehensive when engaging with others and may appear disinterested in a particular task or activity could simply be assessing the situation. This trait is a positive for tech talent; it means they are cautious in their actions and take time to thoroughly assess a problem before taking action in an effort to provide the perfect solution. If this individual is in charge of working with vast amounts of company data, then this level of caution is definitely advantageous.

Another common misconception is that tech professionals are introverts who only want to work in silos. This is an untrue stereotype; while many might be introverted, they often have a strong collaborative spirit and enjoy working with like-minded individuals. They understand the value of collective brainstorming and constructive feedback, leveraging the diverse perspectives of their peers to refine their ideas and produce superior outcomes. However, they can also work independently, allowing them to focus and hone in on the small details that make a difference in the success of a project.

Through assessments such as Psychometrics or Cognitive ability tests, several of our Tech candidates received that reflected an affinity to ‘challenge authority’, which is often misconstrued as disobedient. Contrary to this belief, tech professionals ask challenging questions in an effort to fully understand ‘the why’ behind requests, which subsequently enables them to produce a concise solution that caters to the core problem or .

Overall, it is essential to recognise that tech talent is not a monolithic group, and their personalities and capabilities can vary widely, so when hiring tech talent, it is crucial to assess not only their technical skills but also their within the organisation. This can be accomplished by ensuring assessments include personality tests that align with the technical outcomes required for the role but also acknowledge and account for their personalities beyond their technical responsibilities.  Tech talent may show up differently at work when participating in activities outside their core responsibility area.

When evaluating tech candidates, look for individuals who demonstrate a genuine passion for technology and a commitment to lifelong learning. Look for candidates with a well-rounded skill set and demonstrate the potential for growth and development. Most importantly, consider how the personality traits you identify may . By adopting this kind of approach, you allow both junior and senior tech talent to meet their current requirements while also providing your business with higher calibre talent whose skills can be beneficial in the future in more senior roles or alternative functions of the organisation.

Ultimately, the personality traits of tech talent encompass a diverse range of qualities, from curiosity and adaptability to caution and inquisitiveness. Understanding these traits is essential for organisations seeking to hire tech talent that can thrive in the fast-paced and ever-changing world of technology. Companies can build high-performing teams that drive innovation and success in the digital age by focusing on technical skills, cultural fit, and soft skills.