How to Hire a HubSpot Developer: A Complete Guide

Hiring a skilled HubSpot developer can be a game-changer for businesses looking to optimize their sales, marketing, and service efforts. Whether you’re customizing your HubSpot CRM, building tailored workflows, or developing integrations, having the right developer on your team ensures you maximize the platform’s capabilities.

This blog post walks you through everything you need to know to hire the best HubSpot developer for your needs.

1. Understand What a HubSpot Developer Does

Before hiring a HubSpot developer, it’s essential to know what they bring to the table. A HubSpot developer is proficient in using and customizing the HubSpot platform to align with your business objectives. Key responsibilities include:

  • CRM Customization: Tailoring HubSpot’s CRM to fit your specific business processes.
  • Template and Website Development: Creating custom themes, landing pages, and email templates that reflect your brand.
  • Workflow Automation: Setting up advanced workflows for marketing, sales, or service teams.
  • Integration: Connecting HubSpot with other tools or third-party platforms like Salesforce, Slack, or custom APIs.
  • Reporting and Analytics: Developing custom reports and dashboards for actionable insights.

2. Define Your Needs and Objectives

Before searching for a developer, define the scope of your project. Ask yourself:

  • Do you need ongoing support or a one-time project?
  • Are you focusing on marketing, sales, or both?
  • What specific tasks do you need help with (e.g., creating email templates, building integrations, optimizing workflows)?
  • Are you looking for a general HubSpot expert or someone specialized in development (e.g., API integrations or website customization)?

Having a clear understanding of your needs will help you find a developer with the right expertise.

3. Skills to Look for in a HubSpot Developer

A HubSpot developer should have a blend of technical skills, platform expertise, and business understanding. Key skills include:

Technical Expertise:

  • Proficiency in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript for web development.
  • Knowledge of HubL (HubSpot’s markup language) for building custom themes and modules.
  • Experience with HubSpot APIs for integrations.
  • Familiarity with backend technologies (e.g., Python, Node.js) if advanced integrations are required.

HubSpot-Specific Knowledge:

  • Experience with HubSpot CMS and CRM.
  • Understanding of HubSpot tools, including Marketing Hub, Sales Hub, and Service Hub.
  • Expertise in setting up custom workflows and automation.

Soft Skills:

  • Strong communication skills to understand your requirements and translate them into solutions.
  • Problem-solving abilities to tackle technical challenges.

4. Where to Find HubSpot Developers

Finding the right HubSpot developer requires exploring the right platforms:

Freelance Platforms:

  • Upwork and Freelancer: Look for HubSpot-certified freelancers with strong reviews and a solid portfolio.
  • Toptal: Offers access to pre-vetted developers with extensive experience.

HubSpot Solutions Directory:

  • HubSpot’s Solutions Partner Directory is an excellent resource for finding certified agencies and freelancers.

Job Boards:

  • Post your requirements on platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, or AngelList.

Communities and Forums:

  • HubSpot Developer Community or Reddit’s r/HubSpot forum can connect you with professionals passionate about HubSpot.

Referrals:

  • Ask for recommendations from your network or business partners.

5. Questions to Ask During the Interview

When interviewing HubSpot developers, focus on assessing their technical abilities, experience, and approach to problem-solving. Key questions include:

  1. What HubSpot certifications do you hold?
    • Look for certifications like HubSpot CMS for Developers or HubSpot CRM Implementation.
  2. Can you share examples of past projects?
    • Request portfolios or case studies that demonstrate relevant work.
  3. Have you worked with businesses in my industry?
    • Industry experience can be beneficial but isn’t always necessary.
  4. How do you approach troubleshooting and problem-solving?
    • Assess their critical thinking skills.
  5. Are you experienced with HubSpot APIs and integrations?
    • If you need custom integrations, ensure they’re proficient in API development.
  6. How do you handle deadlines and communication?
    • Clear communication and project management are crucial for success.

6. Consider Certifications and Experience

HubSpot certifications ensure that a developer is proficient in using the platform. Look for certifications such as:

  • HubSpot CMS for Developers
  • HubSpot Marketing Software Certification
  • HubSpot Sales Software Certification

Beyond certifications, prioritize hands-on experience. A developer with real-world experience working on similar projects is more likely to deliver quality results.

7. Evaluate Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

While technical skills are crucial, don’t overlook soft skills like communication, collaboration, and adaptability. The best developers can translate technical jargon into actionable plans and integrate seamlessly with your team.

If you’re hiring a freelancer, ensure they have strong time management and remote collaboration skills. For full-time hires, assess how well they align with your company culture.

8. Define the Scope and Set Clear Expectations

Before hiring, draft a detailed project brief that includes:

  • The project timeline and milestones.
  • Specific deliverables (e.g., templates, workflows, integrations).
  • Your budget and payment terms.
  • Communication frequency and preferred tools (e.g., Slack, email, project management software).

Clear expectations reduce misunderstandings and ensure both parties are aligned.

9. Budgeting for a HubSpot Developer

The cost of hiring a HubSpot developer varies based on experience, project scope, and location.

  • Freelancers: Typically charge $50–$150/hour. For larger projects, you may negotiate a flat fee.
  • Agencies: Offer comprehensive services but may cost $5,000–$50,000+ depending on the complexity.
  • Full-Time Developers: Salaries range from $70,000 to $120,000 annually, depending on experience and location.

Choose a developer who offers the best balance of cost and quality for your needs.

10. Test the Developer with a Small Project

Before committing to a long-term engagement, consider hiring the developer for a smaller task, such as:

  • Designing an email template.
  • Creating a custom landing page.
  • Setting up a simple workflow.

This test project will help you evaluate their skills, communication, and ability to meet deadlines.

Conclusion

Hiring a HubSpot developer is an investment in your business’s growth. The right developer can help you unlock HubSpot’s full potential, driving more efficient processes and better customer experiences.

By understanding your needs, seeking candidates with the right skills, and setting clear expectations, you’ll be well-equipped to find the perfect HubSpot developer for your team.

Ready to start your search? Whether you hire a freelancer, agency, or full-time developer, take your time to evaluate candidates thoroughly to ensure they’re the right fit for your goals.