Shopify Developers For Hire: 13 Secret Tips No One Tells You

Looking for hiring a Shopify developer is in high demand as more and more businesses are planning to set up their own Shopify stores.

To keep up with this e-commerce trend and help you find the right candidate for your organization, in today’s article, we will provide you with 13 secret tips no one tells you when looking for Shopify developers for hire.

Shopify developers, who are they?

A Shopify developer is a professional specializing in working with the Shopify platform to create and customize online stores for businesses. Shopify is a widely used e-commerce platform that permits individuals and businesses to set up and manage their online stores without needing extensive technical expertise. 

However, many store owners turn to Shopify developers for more complex or unique requirements to help them build, customize, and optimize their online stores.

Whether you’re a business owner looking to launch an online store or an existing Shopify store owner looking to enhance your store’s functionality, a Shopify developer can assume a pivotal role in helping you achieve your goals.

Why do you need a Shopify developer for your online store?

You may need a Shopify developer for your online store for several reasons:

• Customization: If you want your online store to have a unique design or specific functionality that goes beyond what’s offered by standard Shopify themes and apps, a developer can create a custom solution tailored to your brand and business needs.
• Complex Features: Some businesses require features like subscription models, product configurators, or advanced search functionality. A Shopify developer can build and integrate these features seamlessly into your store.
• Optimized Performance: To ensure your online store loads quickly, provides a smooth user experience, and ranks well in search engines, a developer can optimize your store’s performance by minimizing code, optimizing images, and implementing other best practices.
• Third-Party Integrations: If you need to integrate your Shopify store with other software or services (e.g., inventory management, CRM, or shipping solutions), a developer can ensure a seamless connection and data synchronization.
• Responsive Design: A Shopify developer can make sure your store is responsive, meaning it appears and functions effectively on diverse devices, including mobile phones and tablets, which is crucial for reaching a broader audience.
• Security: Developers can implement security measures to protect your store and customer data from potential threats, helping to build trust with your customers.
• Troubleshooting and Support: In case of technical issues or unexpected problems, a Shopify developer can quickly identify and address problems to reduce downtime and customer frustration.
• SEO: Developers with SEO expertise can optimize your store for search engines, helping you rank higher in search results and attract organic traffic.
• Scalability: As your business expands, your e-commerce site might require scaling to handle heightened traffic and sales. A Shopify developer can ensure your store is ready to handle growth without sacrificing performance or user experience.
• Training and Guidance: Some developers provide training to help you and your team effectively manage and update your Shopify store, ensuring you can maximize its features and capabilities.

While Shopify is designed to be user-friendly and accessible to those without technical expertise, a Shopify developer can help you take full advantage of the platform’s capabilities and provide a tailored solution that aligns with your business goals.

Hiring a Shopify developer can save you time, help you avoid common pitfalls, and ensure your online store stands out in a competitive e-commerce landscape.

13 Tips when looking for suitable Shopify developers for hire

When hiring a suitable Shopify developer, it’s important to find a skilled and reliable professional who can assist you in reaching your online store objectives. Here are 13 recommendations to take into account when searching for and evaluating potential Shopify developers:

1. Shopify experts directory

The Shopify experts directory proves to be a valuable asset for businesses and individuals looking to hire experienced and reputable Shopify developers. 

To use the Shopify Experts directory effectively, start by visiting the directory, filter experts based on your specific project needs, review their profiles, contact them to discuss your project, ask questions, request quotes, check references if needed, and ultimately choose the developer who aligns best with your requirements and budget, ensuring a smoother and more reliable Shopify development experience.

By leveraging the Shopify experts directory, you can find qualified developers well-equipped to help you build and maintain a successful Shopify store.

2. Network within the Shopify community

When searching for Shopify developers, remember that networking within the Shopify community is crucial because it allows you to tap into a pool of experienced professionals, gain insights, and access recommendations based on real experiences. 

To network effectively, participate in Shopify-related forums, communities, and social media groups, attend Shopify meetups and conferences, engage with Shopify experts on platforms like LinkedIn or Twitter, and ask for referrals from fellow Shopify store owners or professionals in your industry. 

Building relationships within the Shopify community can lead to valuable connections with developers with a track record of delivering quality work and understanding the unique needs of Shopify businesses.

3. Check freelance platforms

Freelance platforms can offer a wide pool of freelance talent, making it easier to find developers with the specific skills and experience you need. Hence, checking freelance platforms can be a great idea if you are looking for hiring Shopify developers. 

To do it effectively, create an account on popular platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, or Toptal, post a detailed job listing with your project requirements, budget, and timeline, and carefully review proposals from interested developers. 

Check their profiles for reviews, past work samples, and skill endorsements. Conduct interviews or test projects if necessary to gauge their suitability and consider their responsiveness and communication skills. 

Freelance platforms provide a convenient way to connect with Shopify developers worldwide and find the right fit for your project.

4. LinkedIn searches

Another way to directly explore the professional profiles of potential candidates, assess their skills and experience, and even solicit recommendations from your network is to conduct LinkedIn searches when finding Shopify developers for hire.

Use specific keywords like “Shopify developer” or “eCommerce web developer” in the LinkedIn search bar to do it effectively. Filter results by location, experience, and other relevant criteria. Review profiles to check for endorsements, work history, and recommendations from colleagues or employers. 

Additionally, consider contacting your LinkedIn network or relevant groups to seek referrals and recommendations for skilled Shopify developers, leveraging your professional connections to find qualified candidates.

5. Attend e-commerce conferences

Attending e-commerce conferences when searching for Shopify developers provides a unique opportunity to meet and connect with a diverse pool of industry professionals, including experienced Shopify developers. 

Attending conferences can give you valuable insights into the latest e-commerce trends and technologies, informing your hiring decisions. Moreover, you can engage in face-to-face conversations with potential candidates, assess their expertise, and build personal connections, making evaluating their suitability for your project easier. 

6. Use freelance marketplaces with caution

With many platforms mentioned above, it’s essential to use freelance marketplaces with caution when finding Shopify developers for hire because while these platforms provide access to an extensive talent pool, they also come with inherent risks.

Freelancers may vary widely regarding skill level, reliability, and professionalism, and it can be challenging to verify their qualifications. Additionally, some freelancers may bid low on projects but lack the expertise to deliver high-quality work, potentially leading to subpar results or project delays. 

Due diligence is crucial when using freelance marketplaces, including thoroughly reviewing candidate profiles, checking references, setting clear expectations, and using secure payment systems to safeguard your investment and ensure a prosperous outcome.

7. Evaluate portfolios thoroughly

Evaluating portfolios thoroughly and cautiously is vital when finding Shopify developers for hire. A portfolio is often the most tangible and demonstrative evidence of a developer’s skills and experience. However, it’s essential to go beyond just a glance. 

Delve deep into the portfolio to assess the quality and diversity of projects, paying attention to factors like design aesthetics, user experience, functionality, and relevance to your specific project needs. Look for evidence of problem-solving, innovation, and adaptability in their previous work. 

It’s also wise to verify the authenticity of their portfolio by checking if the showcased projects align with their claimed contributions and by reaching out to references or past clients to confirm the developer’s abilities and professionalism.

A thorough portfolio evaluation helps you make informed decisions and select a Shopify developer who can meet your project’s requirements and expectations.

8. Request test project

Requesting test projects from Shopify developers can be a valuable step in the hiring process, but it should be approached with caution. While it can help you assess a developer’s skills and suitability for your project, it’s important to balance evaluating their capabilities and respecting their time. 

When requesting test projects, ensure that the task represents the work they’ll be doing on your project but is not too complex or time-consuming. Communicate your expectations, pay for their time and effort, and set a reasonable deadline.

Remember that experienced developers may be hesitant to invest significant time in unpaid test projects, so finding a balance that allows you to assess their skills while treating them fairly and professionally is crucial.

9. Interview and assess communication

Interviewing and assessing communication skills are crucial when hiring Shopify developers because effective communication is essential for project success. 

During interviews, you can gauge a developer’s ability to understand your project requirements, ask relevant questions, and articulate their solutions. Pay attention to their responsiveness, clarity in explaining technical concepts, and willingness to collaborate. 

It also helps establish a productive working relationship, ultimately leading to a successful outcome for your Shopify project.

10. Ask for client references

When searching for Shopify developers, you must ask for client references, as this step provides valuable insights into a developer’s past performance, professionalism, and the quality of their work. 

References allow you to hear directly from previous clients about their experiences, including any challenges encountered and how well the developer addressed them. This firsthand feedback can help you assess a candidate’s reliability, communication skills, and ability to meet project deadlines and expectations. 

It also adds a layer of credibility to a developer’s claims about their expertise and track record, giving you greater confidence in your hiring decision and helping you select a Shopify developer who is more likely to deliver outstanding results.

11. Check for expertise in your niche

To ensure that the developer understands Shopify’s technical aspects and has the knowledge and experience to tailor the platform to your unique industry and business needs, you should check for expertise in your niche in the hiring process. 

To do this effectively, review the developer’s portfolio to see if they have worked on projects in your niche before. Ask them targeted questions about their experience with similar businesses and inquire about any specific challenges or solutions they’ve encountered. 

By selecting a Shopify developer with niche expertise, you’re more likely to get a tailored solution that aligns with your industry’s best practices, resulting in a more successful and effective Shopify store for your specific business needs.

12. Consider time zones

For those requiring real-time communication and collaboration, remember to consider time zones in your niche when hiring Shopify developers. Shopify developers working in different time zones can impact project timelines, responsiveness, and the ability to address urgent issues. 

To address this, prioritize candidates in or have a work schedule compatible with your time zone. During the hiring process, discuss their availability and confirm that they can accommodate your preferred communication hours. 

Additionally, establish clear communication protocols, such as regular update meetings or asynchronous communication tools, to bridge any time zone gaps and ensure efficient project management, regardless of geographical differences. 

This consideration helps prevent delays and ensures a smoother development process for your Shopify project.

13. Budget realistically

Lastly, budgeting realistically is one of the most essential factors that can set the foundation for a successful project. It’s crucial to clearly understand your budget constraints to ensure you can afford the developer’s services and any additional costs associated with your Shopify projects, such as app integrations or design work. 

To consider it effectively, define your project scope, identify your budget limitations, and search for developers aligning with your financial expectations. While it may be tempting to opt for the lowest bid, prioritize developers with a proven track record and the ability to deliver quality work within your budget, as unrealistic budget constraints can lead to compromised quality and project delays. 

Where to find qualified Shopify developers for hire?

You can find qualified Shopify developers for hire through various channels and platforms. Here are some popular options:

• Shopify Experts Directory: Shopify maintains its directory of vetted experts specializing in various aspects of Shopify development, including design, development, and marketing. It’s a reputable source for finding experienced developers.
• Freelance Marketplaces: Platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Toptal have a large pool of freelance Shopify developers. You can browse profiles, post job listings, and hire developers based on your project requirements.
• E-commerce Conferences and Meetups: Attend e-commerce conferences, Shopify meetups, or other industry events where you can meet developers in person, see their work, and build connections.
• Local Development Agencies: Depending on your location, there may be local web development agencies that specialize in Shopify. Contacting them can lead to finding skilled developers.
• Online Job Boards: Websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn Jobs allow you to post job listings and review resumes from Shopify developers actively seeking employment.
• Shopify Partners: Shopify partners, including design and development agencies, often have experienced developers on their teams. Collaborating with these agencies can grant access to a pool of qualified experts.

The cost of hiring a Shopify developer

According to WebsiteBuilderInsider, you can expect to pay between $50 and $200 per hour for Shopify development services. 

Plus, keep in mind that the cost of hiring a Shopify developer can vary significantly based on several factors, including the developer’s experience, location, the complexity of your project, and the specific services you require. Here are some general guidelines to give you an idea of what to expect:

• Project-Based Pricing: For larger projects, some developers may provide project-based pricing. This could range from a few thousand dollars for a small customization project to tens of thousands or more for a comprehensive e-commerce website development.
• Monthly Retainers: If you need ongoing support and maintenance, you may hire a Shopify developer on a monthly retainer. The monthly retainer fees can span from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars, contingent on the level of service required.
• Location: Developers in North America, Western Europe, and other high-cost-of-living regions typically charge higher rates than those in Eastern Europe, Asia, or South America. You might find cost savings by hiring developers from regions with lower labor costs.
• Experience and Expertise: Developers with more experience and expertise tend to charge higher rates. If you need advanced features, complex customizations, or integration with third-party systems, you may need a developer with a higher skill level, which can impact costs.
• Scope of Work: The complexity and scope of your project greatly influence the cost. Simple theme customizations or app integrations will cost less than building a custom e-commerce site from scratch.
• Timeline: Developers may charge a premium for expedited work if you have a tight deadline.

To get an accurate estimate for your project, it’s essential to discuss your specific requirements with potential developers and request detailed quotes. Be transparent about your budget constraints, and consider not only the upfront development costs but also ongoing expenses for maintenance, updates, and support. 

Remember that investing in a skilled Shopify developer can pay off in the form of a high-quality, efficient, and successful e-commerce store.

Hiring Shopify developers from Mageplaza

Mageplaza is an ideal choice for those who are running short on time and budget but still want to find a high-quality candidate for your project. The Mageplaza team is a part of the Avada Group, which has successfully developed numerous Shopify apps with good ratings and high download rates, such as:

• Avada EU GDPR Cookie Consent
• Avada Trust badges, pop‑up
• Avada WhatsApp Chat, FAQ Page
• PDF Invoice Order Printer, POS
• Avada: Size Chart, Size Guide
• Avada Upsell Cross Sell Bundle

 Some advantages of hiring Shopify developers from Mageplaza can be named as:

• Shopify expertise: Having accumulated almost a decade of expertise, Mageplaza’s Shopify developers possess comprehensive knowledge of this platform’s facets. They have collaborated with clients spanning diverse industries, including but not limited to E-commerce, healthcare, education, manufacturing, food & beverage, and more
• Code: Mageplaza develops innovative solutions using JavaScript, HTML, CSS, and Liquid, rigorously testing them across diverse browsers and devices. Every line of code is meticulously reviewed by an experienced Shopify expert to ensure quality and accuracy..
• Transparency: Mageplaza’s project managers keep you informed about your project’s progress through emails, calls, and video conferences on a flexible schedule, tailored to your preferences and needs.
• Timeliness: Mageplaza works closely with you to create a feasible timeline, factoring in project scope, resources, and challenges. They then commit to keeping the project on track, ensuring it meets the agreed schedule for successful completion.
• Security: Mageplaza prioritizes your privacy and security by signing NDAs and contracts before starting any project. They also implement advanced security measures to protect your data in your Shopify store, ensuring ongoing safety.
• Support: Mageplaza’s Shopify experts are available around the clock, eliminating time zone concerns. They provide ongoing support to ensure your project runs smoothly and offer peace of mind.
• Pricing: Mageplaza provides cost-effective Shopify expert services tailored to your needs. They offer discounts for larger projects and ongoing collaborations, ensuring budget-friendly solutions.
• Scalability: Partnering with Mageplaza’s Shopify programmers enables business expansion without sacrificing quality. It also helps you stay competitive and frees up resources for other essential aspects of your operation.
• Innovation: Mageplaza is dedicated to continuous innovation, staying ahead in the industry with the latest advancements. Their commitment to staying informed about new technologies and trends empowers your business to stay competitive in the ever-evolving landscape.

TALK WITH SHOPIFY EXPERTS NOW

Conclusion

In conclusion, finding the right Shopify developer for your e-commerce business is crucial to success in the competitive online marketplace. 

While the process may seem daunting, armed with these 13 secret tips, you’ll be well-prepared to make an informed decision and hire a Shopify developer who can take your store to new heights.