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Top 8 In-Demand Tech Skills to Hire For

Top 8 In-Demand Tech Skills to Hire For

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Kumari Trishya
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January 17, 2024
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4 min read
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Hiring is hard — no doubt.

Identifying the top technical skills that you should hire for is even harder.

But we've got your back.

Based on the hiring trends we have seen on our HackerEarth Assessments platform, we made a list of the top technical skills you should be focusing on in 2025.

What are these tech skills? Keep reading to find out.

8 tech skills in high demand in 2025

Imagine you have a marketing degree but zero skills on how to create a marketing strategy. Would you be qualified for the marketing role? Nope. Similarly, if you don’t have these 8 top technical skills, you won’t be able to survive as a developer in 2025.
Here are 8 technical skills you need to get your grip on in this coming year:

1. Java

Do you know Amazon is currently the most popular JDK vendor with 31.35% of the market? This is a mere example of how important Java as a skill currently is and how valuable it will be in the upcoming years.
This is what a Redittor has to say about Java:
In a nutshell, Java is known for its platform independence and scalability. It continues to be a top choice for building robust and versatile applications.
  • Java has been a robust and versatile programming language with a strong ecosystem, widely used in enterprise-level applications.
  • Android uses Java as one of its primary languages

Also, read: How to Assess a Java Developer Skills While Hiring

2. Logical Reasoning

Whether a dev is solving real-world problems or tackling a personal project, logical reasoning will help you understand how they analyze problems, break them down into smaller parts, and apply rules and principles to achieve the right solution.
Overall, logical reasoning is the bedrock of effective problem-solving. As a recruiter, you should prioritize candidates who not only possess technical expertise but also possess strong logical reasoning abilities.

3. CSS

In the past few years, companies have moved digital — which has opened more doors for technology companies to create more technology products. With this comes another important part — designing websites for such companies.
But with designing beautiful design comes a challenge: not being able to design responsive websites.
According to GoodFirms, 71% of web designers say they lack responsiveness with multiple devices — which is a top reason for customers to leave the website.
The good news is, you can avoid and eliminate this problem with the help of CSS. When an engineer has proficiency in CSS, they can not only create visually appealing websites but also understand the thought process of responsive website design, accessibility, and cross-browser compatibility.
So, look for developers with knowledge of CSS to contribute to the creation of seamless and visually stunning user interfaces, enhancing overall user engagement and satisfaction.

4. Data Structures

Tech companies look for knowledge of Data Structured Algorithms (DS) when hiring employees because:
  • Companies want developers who can choose the right algorithms to save company resources such as servers, computation power, and money.
  • Developers have to write efficient code — which requires expertise in DSA.
As a recruiter, aim for candidates who can efficiently organize and manipulate data — as this skill is essential for optimizing algorithmic performance.
To be able to incorporate DSA into your interview process, first, you must know the commonly used data structures:
  • Array — it holds and indexes items of the same data type
  • Linked lists — it organizes data into a linear, sequentially linked order
  • Stacks — it allows programmers to access recently placed items first
Once you learn the different data structures, you can include them in your technical assessments and check for the DSA knowledge in tech candidates.

5. C++

If you’re hiring backend developers, C++ is a must-have skill due to its high-performance computing and system-level programming.
Organizations looking to build resource-intensive software, such as gaming engines or operating systems, should prioritize candidates with expertise in C++.
Also, read: The Complete Guide to Hiring a C++ Developer

6. JavaScript

JavaScript stands strong under the top 10 positions in the TIOBE Index Rating of 2023 with rank #6 in 2023.
Clearly, JavaScript remains the backbone of dynamic and interactive web applications. With frameworks like React and Angular, JavaScript has expanded its reach to both frontend and backend development.
With proficiency in JavaScript, Devs can create responsive and feature-rich user interfaces and server-side applications.

When hiring a JavaScript developer, here are a few skills you should focus on:
  • Proficiency in core JavaScript — strong grasp of core concepts of the language including variables, data types, functions, control flow, and object-type programming
  • Knowledge in front-end development — Understanding of HTML, CSS, and Document Object Model (DOM) to create interactive user interfaces
  • Experience with popular front-end frameworks — Knowledge of React, Vue, and Angular
  • Familiarity with server-side programming — Knowledge of Node.js, Express.js, and database technologies

Also, read: 6 Best Practices to Design JavaScript Coding Challenges with APIs

7. Python

Big tech companies like Reddit, Amazon, Dropbox, Paypal, Pinterest, and Instagram (and many more) use Python. According to JetBrains State of Developer Ecosystem report, 27% of respondents showed their interest in learning Python compared to other programming languages like Java and JavaScript.
Why? Python is more readable, versatile, and has extensive libraries. Developers well-versed in Python bring efficiency to tasks ranging from data analysis and machine learning to web development. The language's simplicity and readability make it an excellent choice for rapid prototyping and development.
Recruiters should prioritize candidates with Python skills, recognizing the language's role in driving innovation across various domains.

8. C#

Whether the goal of your organization is mobile development, game development, web application, and service creation, or Microsoft and website application development — C# remains a preferred language.
With its strong integration with the .NET framework, C# enables the creation of robust and scalable software solutions. So, recruiters should consider the demand for C# expertise, especially when hiring for organizations heavily invested in Microsoft technologies.

Feeling confident to hire in 2025?

Whatever you're hiring goals for 2025 may be, HackerEarth Assessments can help. Our skill-first platform helps you hire global developers through curated take-home coding tests that match your tech team's needs. Over the last 11 years, we have helped more than 4000 companies find their purple unicorn through our branded hackathons, hiring challenges, and assessments. You could be next! Happy hiring!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.1. Which technical skills are most in demand in 2025?

Top technical skills that currently are and will continue to be in demand include:
  1. Java
  2. Python
  3. CSS
  4. C++,
  5. C#

Q.2. Which technical skills are in demand in India?

According to The Economic Times, 3 technical skills in demand include Java Full Stack, Data Analytics, and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP).

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Author
Kumari Trishya
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January 17, 2024
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4 min read
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Vibe Coding: Shaping the Future of Software

A New Era of CodeVibe coding is a new method of using natural language prompts and AI tools to generate code. I have seen firsthand that this change makes software more accessible to everyone. In the past, being able to produce functional code was a strong advantage for developers. Today,...

A New Era of Code

Vibe coding is a new method of using natural language prompts and AI tools to generate code. I have seen firsthand that this change makes software more accessible to everyone. In the past, being able to produce functional code was a strong advantage for developers. Today, when code is produced quickly through AI, the true value lies in designing, refining, and optimizing systems. Our role now goes beyond writing code; we must also ensure that our systems remain efficient and reliable.

From Machine Language to Natural Language

I recall the early days when every line of code was written manually. We progressed from machine language to high-level programming, and now we are beginning to interact with our tools using natural language. This development does not only increase speed but also changes how we approach problem solving. Product managers can now create working demos in hours instead of weeks, and founders have a clearer way of pitching their ideas with functional prototypes. It is important for us to rethink our role as developers and focus on architecture and system design rather than simply on typing c

The Promise and the Pitfalls

I have experienced both sides of vibe coding. In cases where the goal was to build a quick prototype or a simple internal tool, AI-generated code provided impressive results. Teams have been able to test new ideas and validate concepts much faster. However, when it comes to more complex systems that require careful planning and attention to detail, the output from AI can be problematic. I have seen situations where AI produces large volumes of code that become difficult to manage without significant human intervention.

AI-powered coding tools like GitHub Copilot and AWS’s Q Developer have demonstrated significant productivity gains. For instance, at the National Australia Bank, it’s reported that half of the production code is generated by Q Developer, allowing developers to focus on higher-level problem-solving . Similarly, platforms like Lovable enable non-coders to build viable tech businesses using natural language prompts, contributing to a shift where AI-generated code reduces the need for large engineering teams. However, there are challenges. AI-generated code can sometimes be verbose or lack the architectural discipline required for complex systems. While AI can rapidly produce prototypes or simple utilities, building large-scale systems still necessitates experienced engineers to refine and optimize the code.​

The Economic Impact

The democratization of code generation is altering the economic landscape of software development. As AI tools become more prevalent, the value of average coding skills may diminish, potentially affecting salaries for entry-level positions. Conversely, developers who excel in system design, architecture, and optimization are likely to see increased demand and compensation.​
Seizing the Opportunity

Vibe coding is most beneficial in areas such as rapid prototyping and building simple applications or internal tools. It frees up valuable time that we can then invest in higher-level tasks such as system architecture, security, and user experience. When used in the right context, AI becomes a helpful partner that accelerates the development process without replacing the need for skilled engineers.

This is revolutionizing our craft, much like the shift from machine language to assembly to high-level languages did in the past. AI can churn out code at lightning speed, but remember, “Any fool can write code that a computer can understand. Good programmers write code that humans can understand.” Use AI for rapid prototyping, but it’s your expertise that transforms raw output into robust, scalable software. By honing our skills in design and architecture, we ensure our work remains impactful and enduring. Let’s continue to learn, adapt, and build software that stands the test of time.​

Ready to streamline your recruitment process? Get a free demo to explore cutting-edge solutions and resources for your hiring needs.

Guide to Conducting Successful System Design Interviews in 2025

What is Systems Design?Systems Design is an all encompassing term which encapsulates both frontend and backend components harmonized to define the overall architecture of a product.Designing robust and scalable systems requires a deep understanding of application, architecture and their underlying components like networks, data, interfaces and modules.Systems Design, in its...

What is Systems Design?

Systems Design is an all encompassing term which encapsulates both frontend and backend components harmonized to define the overall architecture of a product.

Designing robust and scalable systems requires a deep understanding of application, architecture and their underlying components like networks, data, interfaces and modules.

Systems Design, in its essence, is a blueprint of how software and applications should work to meet specific goals. The multi-dimensional nature of this discipline makes it open-ended – as there is no single one-size-fits-all solution to a system design problem.

What is a System Design Interview?

Conducting a System Design interview requires recruiters to take an unconventional approach and look beyond right or wrong answers. Recruiters should aim for evaluating a candidate’s ‘systemic thinking’ skills across three key aspects:

How they navigate technical complexity and navigate uncertainty
How they meet expectations of scale, security and speed
How they focus on the bigger picture without losing sight of details

This assessment of the end-to-end thought process and a holistic approach to problem-solving is what the interview should focus on.

What are some common topics for a System Design Interview

System design interview questions are free-form and exploratory in nature where there is no right or best answer to a specific problem statement. Here are some common questions:

How would you approach the design of a social media app or video app?

What are some ways to design a search engine or a ticketing system?

How would you design an API for a payment gateway?

What are some trade-offs and constraints you will consider while designing systems?

What is your rationale for taking a particular approach to problem solving?

Usually, interviewers base the questions depending on the organization, its goals, key competitors and a candidate’s experience level.

For senior roles, the questions tend to focus on assessing the computational thinking, decision making and reasoning ability of a candidate. For entry level job interviews, the questions are designed to test the hard skills required for building a system architecture.

The Difference between a System Design Interview and a Coding Interview

If a coding interview is like a map that takes you from point A to Z – a systems design interview is like a compass which gives you a sense of the right direction.

Here are three key difference between the two:

Coding challenges follow a linear interviewing experience i.e. candidates are given a problem and interaction with recruiters is limited. System design interviews are more lateral and conversational, requiring active participation from interviewers.

Coding interviews or challenges focus on evaluating the technical acumen of a candidate whereas systems design interviews are oriented to assess problem solving and interpersonal skills.

Coding interviews are based on a right/wrong approach with ideal answers to problem statements while a systems design interview focuses on assessing the thought process and the ability to reason from first principles.

How to Conduct an Effective System Design Interview

One common mistake recruiters make is that they approach a system design interview with the expectations and preparation of a typical coding interview.
Here is a four step framework technical recruiters can follow to ensure a seamless and productive interview experience:

Step 1: Understand the subject at hand

  • Develop an understanding of basics of system design and architecture
  • Familiarize yourself with commonly asked systems design interview questions
  • Read about system design case studies for popular applications
  • Structure the questions and problems by increasing magnitude of difficulty

Step 2: Prepare for the interview

  • Plan the extent of the topics and scope of discussion in advance
  • Clearly define the evaluation criteria and communicate expectations
  • Quantify constraints, inputs, boundaries and assumptions
  • Establish the broader context and a detailed scope of the exercise

Step 3: Stay actively involved

  • Ask follow-up questions to challenge a solution
  • Probe candidates to gauge real-time logical reasoning skills
  • Make it a conversation and take notes of important pointers and outcomes
  • Guide candidates with hints and suggestions to steer them in the right direction

Step 4: Be a collaborator

  • Encourage candidates to explore and consider alternative solutions
  • Work with the candidate to drill the problem into smaller tasks
  • Provide context and supporting details to help candidates stay on track
  • Ask follow-up questions to learn about the candidate’s experience

Technical recruiters and hiring managers should aim for providing an environment of positive reinforcement, actionable feedback and encouragement to candidates.

Evaluation Rubric for Candidates

Facilitate Successful System Design Interview Experiences with FaceCode

FaceCode, HackerEarth’s intuitive and secure platform, empowers recruiters to conduct system design interviews in a live coding environment with HD video chat.

FaceCode comes with an interactive diagram board which makes it easier for interviewers to assess the design thinking skills and conduct communication assessments using a built-in library of diagram based questions.

With FaceCode, you can combine your feedback points with AI-powered insights to generate accurate, data-driven assessment reports in a breeze. Plus, you can access interview recordings and transcripts anytime to recall and trace back the interview experience.

Learn how FaceCode can help you conduct system design interviews and boost your hiring efficiency.

How Candidates Use Technology to Cheat in Online Technical Assessments

Impact of Online Assessments in Technical Hiring In a digitally-native hiring landscape, online assessments have proven to be both a boon and a bane for recruiters and employers. The ease and...

Impact of Online Assessments in Technical Hiring


In a digitally-native hiring landscape, online assessments have proven to be both a boon and a bane for recruiters and employers.

The ease and efficiency of virtual interviews, take home programming tests and remote coding challenges is transformative. Around 82% of companies use pre-employment assessments as reliable indicators of a candidate's skills and potential.

Online skill assessment tests have been proven to streamline technical hiring and enable recruiters to significantly reduce the time and cost to identify and hire top talent.

In the realm of online assessments, remote assessments have transformed the hiring landscape, boosting the speed and efficiency of screening and evaluating talent. On the flip side, candidates have learned how to use creative methods and AI tools to cheat in tests.

As it turns out, technology that makes hiring easier for recruiters and managers - is also their Achilles' heel.

Cheating in Online Assessments is a High Stakes Problem



With the proliferation of AI in recruitment, the conversation around cheating has come to the forefront, putting recruiters and hiring managers in a bit of a flux.



According to research, nearly 30 to 50 percent of candidates cheat in online assessments for entry level jobs. Even 10% of senior candidates have been reportedly caught cheating.

The problem becomes twofold - if finding the right talent can be a competitive advantage, the consequences of hiring the wrong one can be equally damaging and counter-productive.

As per Forbes, a wrong hire can cost a company around 30% of an employee's salary - not to mention, loss of precious productive hours and morale disruption.

The question that arises is - "Can organizations continue to leverage AI-driven tools for online assessments without compromising on the integrity of their hiring process? "

This article will discuss the common methods candidates use to outsmart online assessments. We will also dive deep into actionable steps that you can take to prevent cheating while delivering a positive candidate experience.

Common Cheating Tactics and How You Can Combat Them


  1. Using ChatGPT and other AI tools to write code

    Copy-pasting code using AI-based platforms and online code generators is one of common cheat codes in candidates' books. For tackling technical assessments, candidates conveniently use readily available tools like ChatGPT and GitHub. Using these tools, candidates can easily generate solutions to solve common programming challenges such as:
    • Debugging code
    • Optimizing existing code
    • Writing problem-specific code from scratch
    Ways to prevent it
    • Enable full-screen mode
    • Disable copy-and-paste functionality
    • Restrict tab switching outside of code editors
    • Use AI to detect code that has been copied and pasted
  2. Enlist external help to complete the assessment


    Candidates often seek out someone else to take the assessment on their behalf. In many cases, they also use screen sharing and remote collaboration tools for real-time assistance.

    In extreme cases, some candidates might have an off-camera individual present in the same environment for help.

    Ways to prevent it
    • Verify a candidate using video authentication
    • Restrict test access from specific IP addresses
    • Use online proctoring by taking snapshots of the candidate periodically
    • Use a 360 degree environment scan to ensure no unauthorized individual is present
  3. Using multiple devices at the same time


    Candidates attempting to cheat often rely on secondary devices such as a computer, tablet, notebook or a mobile phone hidden from the line of sight of their webcam.

    By using multiple devices, candidates can look up information, search for solutions or simply augment their answers.

    Ways to prevent it
    • Track mouse exit count to detect irregularities
    • Detect when a new device or peripheral is connected
    • Use network monitoring and scanning to detect any smart devices in proximity
    • Conduct a virtual whiteboard interview to monitor movements and gestures
  4. Using remote desktop software and virtual machines


    Tech-savvy candidates go to great lengths to cheat. Using virtual machines, candidates can search for answers using a secondary OS while their primary OS is being monitored.

    Remote desktop software is another cheating technique which lets candidates give access to a third-person, allowing them to control their device.

    With remote desktops, candidates can screen share the test window and use external help.

    Ways to prevent it
    • Restrict access to virtual machines
    • AI-based proctoring for identifying malicious keystrokes
    • Use smart browsers to block candidates from using VMs

Future-proof Your Online Assessments With HackerEarth

HackerEarth's AI-powered online proctoring solution is a tested and proven way to outsmart cheating and take preventive measures at the right stage. With HackerEarth's Smart Browser, recruiters can mitigate the threat of cheating and ensure their online assessments are accurate and trustworthy.
  • Secure, sealed-off testing environment
  • AI-enabled live test monitoring
  • Enterprise-grade, industry leading compliance
  • Built-in features to track, detect and flag cheating attempts
Boost your hiring efficiency and conduct reliable online assessments confidently with HackerEarth's revolutionary Smart Browser.
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