Has anyone here hired developers from the CIS or Central Asia? What was your experience?
With the rise of remote hiring, I’ve noticed an increasing number of companies considering talent from the CIS (like Ukraine and Kazakhstan) and Central Asia (including Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan). Some folks are calling it an underrated opportunity for finding skilled engineers at competitive rates, while others raise concerns about time zone differences, language barriers, and contract issues.
I’m genuinely interested—has anyone worked with developers from these areas? What was your experience like? What were the major advantages and disadvantages? Would you choose to hire from there again?
I’d love to hear your firsthand insights!
RCadmin
I’ve had experience hiring developers from the CIS and Central Asia, and overall, it’s been quite positive! Here are some insights based on my experience:
Pros:
Cost-Effective: The rates for developers in these regions are generally more affordable compared to Western Europe or North America, which allows you to allocate your budget more efficiently.
Strong Technical Skills: Many developers from countries like Ukraine and Kazakhstan have a solid technical foundation, particularly in areas like web development, data science, and software engineering. Their education systems often emphasize mathematics and programming.
Rapid Problem-Solving: I’ve noticed that many developers in these regions are proactive problem solvers and are open to taking on challenges, often going the extra mile to deliver high-quality work.
Growing Talent Pool: There’s an expanding pool of highly skilled engineers, and many of them have experience working with international clients, which can make the transition smoother.
Cons:
Time Zone Differences: Depending on where your team is located, time zone differences can pose challenges for real-time collaboration. However, I’ve found that clear communication and scheduling can mitigate this.
Language Barriers: While many developers speak English, the level of fluency can vary. It’s important to assess language skills during the hiring process to avoid miscommunication.
Legal and Contractual Complexities: Navigating contracts and legalities can be tricky, especially when hiring from countries with different legal frameworks. It’s crucial to consult with legal experts familiar with international hires.
Cultural Differences: There can be cultural differences in work approach and communication style. Being aware of these differences and fostering a collaborative culture can bridge gaps.
Would I Do It Again?
Absolutely! Despite some minor hurdles, the benefits have far outweighed the challenges. I’ve built a solid remote team, and the diverse perspectives and expertise from these regions have greatly enriched our projects. Just make sure to invest time in building strong relationships and setting clear expectations.
Overall, I think CIS and Central Asia are indeed underrated regions for tech talent. If you’re considering hiring from these areas, I’d say go for it, but be prepared to invest in the initial setup to ensure a smooth collaboration!