Hiring a developer in 2025 presents unique challenges, especially for small indie studios like Ballard Games. With limited funds and a massive influx of applicants—159 for a recent position—efficiency is paramount. The three-person team at Ballard Games managed the entire hiring process manually, from reviewing applications to conducting interviews. They used social media and platforms like Work with Indies to attract candidates, leading to a flood of applications that forced them to close the job listing early. The team employs a two-pass system for application review. The first pass quickly identifies irrelevant candidates, while the second offers a more thorough evaluation. They prioritize candidates' expected salary and availability upfront to streamline the process, avoiding time wasted on candidates with unrealistic salary expectations. Since indie studios often can’t compete with larger companies on salary, they emphasize the benefits of working in a small team, such as greater creative control and ownership of projects. For the technical assessment, Ballard Games opts for a practical take-home assignment that reflects actual job tasks instead of abstract coding challenges. This method not only evaluates candidates’ skills but also helps them determine if they would enjoy the work. The assignment is designed to be manageable within a reasonable timeframe, and candidates are encouraged to ask questions for clarity. The entire hiring process took about four weeks, showcasing the team's commitment to finding the right fit while managing a high volume of applications effectively.