Do you want to become a reputed software testing engineer? Whether you want to transition into software development later on or continue to become a rock-star software tester, it is a good idea to pursue a career as a software tester as your first job. If yes, then this post is just for you. This post will act as a guide to help you become a software tester.
Why do you want to become software testing engineer?
The first phase towards becoming to become a reputed software testing engineer is about awareness. You should start with asking yourself why you want to be a software tester. Why software testing, but not programming, graphic design, IT, or database administrator, etc. You must have a clear answer as to why you want to opt for the career in testing. Keep asking more Why until you find what really motivates you to move into software testing. Understanding the Why and What will help you realize that if software testing is for you or not and if it’s something you want to do and get along. You need to be passionate about testing. Anyone can be trained. But only the people with real interest and passionate in this field can make a name for themselves.
Software Tester Requirements
In order to make your career in this field, you should have your academic background in Computer Science. A degree B.Tech/ B.E., MCA, BCA, BSc will do. If you do not hold any of these degrees, then you must complete a software testing certification like ISTQB and CSTE. In addition to this, it requires some specific skills like Business oriented, open mindset, Business oriented, open mindset, Self-learner, Critical thinking, Knowledge of mobile technology, Result oriented and Passion and enthusiasm towards testing.
Skills required to become a software tester
As a software tester, you should have good aptitude skills combined with knowledge of testing tools methodologies. As a fresher, most of the time, you would not have exposure to any test cases. In such situations, you could join a training institute that offers hands-on testing training. Other skills which are required in this field are-
- Analytical Skills
- Organizational Skills
- Communication Skills
- Time Management Skills
- Technical Skills
Choose the niche
In IT field, you need to specialize as a specialist is always preferred over a generalist by most companies. Some of the popular testing niches you can choose are-
1. Manual testing: In this method, a tester performs the role of the end user- one who will be using the software product. It’s a monotonous process by which the tester has to use all of the software features to find bugs. In most scenarios, testers perform these tests based on an already laid out plan.
2. Automation testing: Using this mode of testing, a tester can evaluate software by writing scripts that automate the tasks. You don’t need to manually do everything which saves a lot of time. This is often the most cost-effective way of testing a software over the long term
3. Performance testing: In this method of testing, software is tested against a specific workload. Some of the metrics that would be evaluated are responsiveness, maximum load capacity and so on.
4. Practice on applications to test bugs: - All applications have bugs. You can spend your time on exercising the application you use every day such as Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, Google Chrome browser, Firefox and see if you can find bugs.
5. Write a Perfect Cover Letter and Resume: - Always customize your resume and make sure that you include a custom cover letter with each job application. Also, instead of trying to apply to 50 different employers at a stretch, apply to just a few relevant ones.
Rahul
