If you’re looking to become a software engineer, these are the top skills to have.
With the ever-evolving world of IT, everywhere we look there is an element of technology incorporated into our world. Software engineers are behind them all: designing, developing and testing their programs. They are in demand and will continue to be with the expansion of our modern technological world.
If this is an industry that interests you, here are some top skills to have to make you shine:
1. Computer programming and coding
To be a software engineer, it’s essential to know computer programming languages in order to build code for programs. It's like knowing the alphabet before you’re able to read; programming languages work in the same way.
Languages include:
Python
Java
C#
Ruby
The ability to code programs will come from the knowledge of understanding the basic principles and fundamentals of a computing language. Having this knowledge will not only excel your skills in this field but are also a must-have top skill.
What makes it even better is that there are plenty of courses available that can teach you these languages.
2. Software development
In order to build software, you will need to understand the process of software development. From analysing what your users want to then building and developing the program. This will then lead to testing the program and modifying it. This cycle continues till the developed program matches the specification.
Acquiring this skill is key to making yourself more marketable in the IT industry.
3. Object-oriented design (OOD)
Another great skill to have under your belt is object-oriented design. This concept forces code to be planned out in order to encourage a better flowing program in a systematic manner. This is a bonus as you will learn about the system lifecycle, and this is a part of that.
4. Software testing
Testing programs for any bugs and discrepancies is another skill that you’d want to acquire as a software engineer. It’s good to know that whatever code you’ve written, you'll also be able to remedy any errors when running it.
5. Written and verbal communication
It goes without saying, but we've added it in, that written and verbal communication skills are paramount. You'll want to convey your thoughts and software development steps with your team in order to move forward with writing the best code for the job.
6. Problem solving
As a software engineer, problem solving and troubleshooting are greatly rewarded skills to possess. If you’re able to think outside the box and solve the complexities of bugs that arise in coding then you’re at an advantage.
7. Teamwork
You’ll need good interpersonal skills in order to collaborate with other team members to get a program up and running. Working well in an environment with others will help boost morale and productivity so it’s a handy skill to have.
Rounding this up, the seven skills mentioned above are the top skills of a software engineer. So if you’re thinking of taking this career path, be sure to cover as many as you possibly can.
