What Is The Career Growth Path For A Software Tester?

Most people are of the belief that the world of IT is one that is ruled by developers. However, the fact is that without the testers, the developers are pretty helpless. Very plainly speaking, a developer is one who writes the codes for a particular software or application. The same is then passed over to the tester. The tester then evaluates the same and puts the code under test for all given conditions.

Proper and detailed description of all possible situations is needed. If even one situation is missed out, it can have massive reparations when passed on to the client. This huge responsibility of ensuring that things are perfect after they leave the developer's desk and before they reach that of the client is something that is the tester's responsibility.

Now having understood the important role that testers play in an IT company, the next step for us is to understand that for somebody who starts off their career as a software tester, the opportunities of growth in this field are enormous. This article evaluates the career growth plan for a software tester and how you can enhance your qualities to climb up the corporate ladder.

• Career Growth Plan

Fresh out of engineering college, most people kick start their career as a QA intern. In fact, some students start off with this role in their 8th semester of engineering itself. Once that is done and the degree is obtained, these young testers join organisations as test executors.

The main job role of test executors is to create test cases and report test bugs. If they excel in this role, they are promoted to the role of a test designer. This person comes up with different test design techniques, critical analysis and is responsible for managing metrics.

After a couple years of excellent performance in this role, they are promoted to the position of a senior tester who specialises in testing techniques and business sectors. If you are able to display exemplary performance here as well, the next role that awaits you is that of a technical tester. However, the growth does not stop here. The technical tester reports to the test manager and if you are dedicated enough you can drive your way to this role as well.

• Pick A Path

For a layman, the world of IT is broadly divided into two parts - that of software development and software testing. However, the fact remains that even under testing there is a wide range of things that you can specialise in. You do not really need a special degree for the same. You just need to make a pick and start working on it.

Your company or organisation will then train you so that you are proficient in the field. The fields include that of CRM (like Salesforce), ERP (like SAP) or simple manual testing. A detailed knowledge of industry verticals, like banking, healthcare or manufacturing, also helps one grow in their career as a software tester.

• Choose Tougher Assignments

As human beings it is our natural tendency to stick to our comfort zone. This is what prompts us to choose easier assignments over the tougher ones. However, if you keep on doing only things that you are comfortable in, you will never grow. In order to grow you need to take up newer and bigger challenges.

That way you will discover your hidden potential and you will find yourself doing things that you did not know was possible. Needless to say, this will put you on the path of professional success.

• Navigate Your Career Path

Some people are fortunate and they have managers and mentors who take an active interest in their career growth. However, not everyone is that lucky. This does not mean that there is nothing that you can do about it. Take proactive measures to invest in professional skill development.

Try to enrol in some course that will put you on the path of professional success. It is also a good idea to join a testing and QA association. By attending regular meets and participating in activities organised by this type of organisation, you will actually enhance your technical skills while having fun and building professional connections.

• Move On At The Right Time

While it is better to stick on with your firm during the initial few days of your career, you must know the exact point when it is appropriate to move on. If you think you are being exploited or are constantly at odds with your supervisor you can consider calling it quits.

Also, if you feel that you are not learning anything new and have hit a plateau in your career, you should not waste any more time in the same company. However, with respect to switching companies, one thing that you need to bear in mind is to not change your organisation more frequently than you should. Doing so will make your future employers question your loyalty towards service.