I have over 15 years of experience in software engineering and programming. Over that time I have assisted many startups and launched the worlds first permanent digital storage company.
My experience with outsourcing is unmatched. Being a developer myself, it took a long time to learn how to hire competent developers. This years I was ranked in the top 10% of hiring entities on Freelancer.com.
The ideal candidate should be able to look at the big picture. If the candidates are new, their prior projects should always be considered in hiring. I've hired many developers who promise the world, but do not deliver. The finger often gets pointed back at you, and sometimes, their right. Good developers are easy going and take the hits with you. Communication is also paramount.