Couldn’t agree more. IMO, the perfect talent is the kind you grow yourself.

No number of interviews or tests will lead you to a magical perfect candidate 100% of the time, but those with less experience are great because they’re eager to accept a lower salary and will attack just about any problem you throw at them enthusiastically because every challenge is a new chance to prove their mettle.

Obviously it takes time to build a program where mentorship is valued and more senior folks help to develop newer teammates, but if you want the highest quality talent, it’s hard to beat homegrown.