Tips for clearing Software testing job interview

Software testing in an integral part of Software Development Life Cycle. It is the process of verifying a software program/application with the purpose of uncovering bugs. Software testing can be done by “software testers”. Until the 1980s the term "software tester" was used generally, but later it was also seen as a separate profession. Regarding the periods and the different goals in software testing, different roles have been established: manager, test lead, test designer, tester, automation developer, and test administrator.

The categories of skill looked out in a good software tester are:
i) Testing dexterity.
ii) Field knowledge.
iii) Technical proficiency.
Hence, for locating a vocation in the domain of software testing, the following would be the tips and advices:
a) Being Presentable: Being presentable is being clear, confident and connected with the interviewers. This is achieved not only by keeping up appearances and looks but also by the ability to reach out to the interviewers – which needs excellent communication. In software testing jobs, communication with the customer and among the team members is of utmost importance. Therefore, developing spoken and written communication skills is the first step towards clearing the interview. This also includes presenting a good resume. A resume is the perfect place to boast. Key accomplishments have to be listed clearly. Impact statements should begin with results of previous achievements. For example “cut overhead costs by 25% by streamlining workflow and centralizing operations” – the resume needs to be loaded with active verbs and keyword nouns. In other words, a resume that highlights your skills in the field of testing specifically. The resume should not be vague but should bring to light your abilities for being a good tester.
b) Possession of upgraded field knowledge: Having an expanded and relevant knowledge of the domain is the base criteria in any interview. Here in software tester job, the knowledge of
all kinds of testing methods and approaches (black box testing, white box testing, grey box testing) testing levels(unit testing, system testing, system integration testing, integration testing, regression testing, acceptance testing, alpha testing, beta testing), non functional testing, testing processes and all other related data. Any minuscule information should not be overlooked. An in-depth knowledge of SDLC, programming is a prerequisite.
c) Dexterous testing: Being a skilled tester not only requires in-depth knowledge of the field but also requires good attitude towards testing like the ability to prioritize test cases, prioritizing modules, identifying the important and complex modules, thinking out of the box, having an independent approach- yet sharing a rapport with the teammates is very necessary.
d) Being the best-prepared candidate: To make a distinct impression on the interviewer, a candidate needs to be armed with a little research knowledge about the company. In the interview, when the candidate is asked to speak out for queries, this knowledge has to be applied to ask educated questions. This makes the interviewer aware of the fact that the candidate is very well prepared and has devoted time to search and learn the company. To stand out from the rest of the candidates, bringing a portfolio of previous work samples and discussing the ideas behind them to demonstrate expertise is required.





Finer and concise tips for clearing the interview:
Know all about the company. Questions about business and software questions like how your skills will help the business will be asked. So the interviewer needs to be amazed with your knowledge of the company.
Your education in software testing needs to be made known to the interviewers. List any examples of software testing you have conducted in the past in a job or in school.
Use open ended questions to explain your qualifications. Give examples of each skill you have that are relevant to software testing.
Show your personal qualities, such your willingness to work overtime. Explain that you are a team player who can also work independently and that you are also a problem solver with great communication skills.
Identify which software testing procedures you are familiar with. Describe any experience you have with test plans or test cases.
Explain your knowledge and experience with automated testing and manual testing of software packages. Include the testing tools you used. List your knowledge of software development or programming languages like Java, Visual or C++.
Describe your willingness to learn new things if you don't know a software procedure, program or term used by the interviewer. Remind the interviewer of all your current knowledge and skills including your ability and willingness to learn more.
While questioning a candidate, the interviewer checks if the person is familiar with the basic testing types and/or its purpose etc. Even if the person has really not worked on different types of testing, he/she is expected to know them. This shows that the person puts an effort towards improving knowledge and exploring. Try to relate your theory to practical scenarios. If you do not know an answer, be honest. Let the interviewer know why you do not know this answer. You are a fresher; it is not practical for you to know everything. Beating around the bush gives a really bad impression.
So the baseline in clearing a software testing job interview is –“Be prepared, be confident and think relevant”.