10 In-Demand Mobile App Developer Skills Companies Look For

Updated 28 November 2022

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Mobile app developers are in-demand due to the ever-growing number of mobile phone users. Candidates who know complex programming languages and are skilled with digital tools and techniques are more likely to get a mobile app developer job. If you want to work as a mobile app developer, understanding the role's most valuable skills and how you can demonstrate them on a resume and cover letter can be beneficial. In this article, we discuss mobile app developer skills and their importance, provide 10 examples of these skills, explore how to improve them and show how they apply in the workplace.

What are mobile app developer skills?

Mobile app developer skills are qualities, technical proficiencies and relevant industry knowledge that mobile application developers use. These skills help developers to create mobile applications, develop better security measures and maintain their competitive advantage in the industry. With cell phones increasing utility and internet penetration, almost all businesses can benefit from a mobile application. Because of this demand, learning these skills and becoming a mobile app developer can be lucrative.

10 in-demand mobile app developer skills

Here are 10 common mobile application development skills employers look for in a candidate:

Programming language skills

Mobile application developers require advanced programming skills, particularly in mobile application languages such as JavaScript, C++, Python and C#. Programming language proficiency demonstrates your ability to use the languages to build functional mobile applications. While education programmes can help you gain additional knowledge, most languages do not require formal education to learn. This means that you can teach yourself these skills using resources online.

Back-end development skills

Having back-end computing knowledge can help you identify and correct system issues before releasing them to the public. Some examples of back-end technology that a mobile app developer works with include:

Framework: Developers understand how to design and maintain back-end frameworks to build a functional mobile application.
Database management: This includes knowing how to manage databases and secure information so that you can design applications that protect users' personal information.
Hardware interaction: This is an understanding of how software and hardware interact with each other so you can resolve system and equipment flaws.
Security: Developers can create secure databases by understanding the security challenges of mobile applications.

User interface (UI) design

Having good UI design skills can help you to design application interfaces that are simple, aesthetic and functional for users. Focusing on the design and functionality of the software's UI can also help you to understand its compatibility with other programs and recognise problems users have with the app interface. Designing a good UI can help with the success and widespread use of the mobile app, which can advance your career in development.

Cross-platform development skills

Because of the increasing number of mobile platforms, developers require the ability to develop applications for different platforms and operating systems. Having a diverse skill set and an understanding of cross-platform concepts, like code reuse, service support and simple testing, makes you more competitive in the industry. You can consider exploring and learning additional skills to develop your knowledge.

User experience design (UXD)

User experience design is useful for making mobile apps function efficiently for users. UXD includes creating interactions between humans and mobile apps based on insights from various UX research and analysis of test user behaviour data. It plays a critical role in making users like a mobile application. Being able to demonstrate an understanding of users and not just stakeholders can show that you are a commercially aware candidate.

Cybersecurity skills

The primary goal of cybersecurity is to safeguard mobile apps from external viruses and threats and the digital data of mobile app users. Increased cybersecurity dangers have also resulted in increased demand for cybersecurity skills among developers to make mobile applications safe to use. Understanding how to secure information, protect apps from data breaches and possible external threats and address security issues makes you more desirable candidates for the employer and also helps you to grow your app user base.

Computer proficiency

Mobile app developers use computer software to develop their applications. This requires computer proficiency and practical experience with software development tools. You can also consider creating computer software or other programs to diversify your skill set and increase computer proficiency.

Internet of things (IoT) skills

Mobile application developers typically possess IoT skills, such as device connectivity and security and a working knowledge of how mobile devices and apps connect to the internet. Acquiring this skill can benefit you in the development of more complex apps and their associated systems for businesses, such as enterprise applications. These are usually more focused on IoT capabilities, which demand a high level of expertise in specific development concepts and system security.

Presentation software

Presentation enables the efficient communication of ideas among various stakeholders in the organisation. In a developer role, you may present prototypes before full development, so being able to show your thought processes and demonstrate the value of an idea means you can enjoy greater control over projects. Being good at presentation skills also gives a competitive advantage and increases your chances of getting shortlisted for positions.

Agile development

Mobile app developers often work in Agile work environments. Agile development focuses on increasing the speed and efficiency of the development process through better delegation. By dividing the project into smaller sections and prioritising its tasks, you can manage the steps efficiently. You can also use agile development to save time and cost on projects and create a more collaborative and transparent work environment for your team and client.

How to improve app developer skills

Here are three steps you can follow to improve your mobile app development skills:

1. Look for learning opportunities

You can initially develop your skills by undergoing a Bachelor's Degree in Software Development before moving on to a Master's Degree in Web and Mobile App Development. Opportunities may also present themselves throughout your career, including workplace courses, seminars, education and training programmes and workshops. Mobile technology develops quickly, so regularly updating your knowledge helps you to perform most effectively.

2. Take part in networking events

Networking is an excellent way to expand your professional support system and develop your skills as a mobile app developer. Taking part in networking events, such as tech seminars, coding camps or other public meetups, provides additional opportunities to connect and build relationships with other professionals. You can also create a profile on networking or meetup websites to connect with global professionals, stay current on industry news and get updates about upcoming events.

3. Earn certifications

Earning new certifications can help you gain a competitive advantage in your field and diversify your skill set. Consider pursuing industry-specific certification courses, such as a programming language certification. Having a strong certification portfolio can help you get a higher salary and advance your career opportunities with leading technology companies.

What are app developer skills useful for?

Here are some of the ways you can apply your mobile app development skills in the workplace:

Developing new apps: You can use your programming and design skills to collaborate with a team of designers and programmers to create new mobile applications for both the company and its clients. This requires a diverse skill set, including user interface design, programming language knowledge, IoT design and cybersecurity.
Collaborating with team members and clients: As an app developer, you collaborate with team members to design and develop apps using your diverse technical knowledge and interpersonal skills. You can include your client in the development process and combine your technical skills with business and communication skills to improve client relationships.
Improving security: You can leverage your cybersecurity skills to protect apps from common cyber threats and create secure portable applications. You can also use your IoT and cybersecurity knowledge to ensure that IoT devices outside the company's network cannot cause data breaches or gain unauthorised access.
Designing better UI and UX: Your UI, UX design and programming skills can help you develop more intuitive UI and responsive applications. This assists you in identifying design flaws or errors in the testing phase.

Please note that none of the companies, institutions or organisations mentioned in this article are associated with Indeed.