What do employers look for in hiring software engineers?

I'm a rising third-year college student majoring in computer science and consider a possible career in software development. But I also heard that this pathway is very competitive, and thousands of applicants compete for limited amount of positions. I wonder in this case, what employers would look for and how they distinguish between so many applicants. I know that technical projects on resumes, OAs, interviews are all important, but wonder which part an applicant should focus the most on? How important are cover letters? What makes one applicant hired and another not hired? I guess this question applies to both internship and full-time jobs. Thanks! :)

12 vote7 answers

Active