What I want to see in junior developers is simply enthusiasm for programming and their ability to learn. Both are easy to spot by having a nice conversation wit

What I want to see in junior developers is simply enthusiasm for programming and their ability to learn. Both are easy to spot by having a nice conversation with them and maybe pairing with them for a few hours. > we had so many applicants (400+) that it was a tough challenge discerning the best candidates You just want good candidates that fit your company. Then you /make/ them the best by teaching and mentoring them. > I would like to hire senior developers instead, but they are too expensive for my budget Sorry to say it but this sounds not like a good place for junior developers. You can't just put them in a senior position and expect results for cheaper payroll costs. They need to learn (experienced developers need to learn too, but juniors even more so).