For juniors I look for some background in the area I'm hiring in with some success in that area. Mainly, though, I look for enthusiasm and eagerness to learn,

For juniors I look for some background in the area I'm hiring in with some success in that area. Mainly, though, I look for enthusiasm and eagerness to learn, the ability to communicate clearly, and intelligence. I also look for a balance of self-determination and the willingness to work through a problem on their own but also enough sense to know when and how the to ask the right questions when needed. Finally, honesty. If they've fluffed up their resume that is a red flag. You are not going to be hiring senior level developers who've misclassified themselves. Juniors are going to take work; there is no avoiding that. Adjust your expectations to that reality and you will have a better chance of pulling in an employee that will do well for you over time.