Re-entering the Testing Field After a Six-Year Gap: A Comprehensive Guide

Starting a career in testing after a six-year gap can be challenging but with the right approach, you can successfully transition back into the field.

Assess Your Skills and Knowledge

Identify Relevant Skills: Evaluate the skills you have from your previous experience and how they relate to testing. This could include analytical skills, attention to detail, or experience with software development.

Learn New Tools: Familiarize yourself with current testing tools and methodologies. Popular tools include Selenium, JUnit, TestNG, and JIRA.

Update Your Knowledge

Online Courses: Consider taking online courses or certifications in software testing such as the International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB) or courses on platforms like Coursera, Udemy, or LinkedIn Learning.

Stay Current: Read blogs, watch webinars, and follow industry news to understand the latest trends and technologies in testing.

Gain Practical Experience

Personal Projects: Start testing personal projects or contribute to open-source projects to build your portfolio.

Internships or Freelance Work: Look for internships or freelance opportunities that allow you to gain hands-on experience.

Network

Join Professional Groups: Participate in testing communities, forums, or local meetups to connect with professionals in the field.

LinkedIn: Update your LinkedIn profile to reflect your interest in testing and connect with industry professionals.

Revise Your Resume and Prepare for Interviews

Tailor Your Resume: Highlight relevant skills, courses, and projects. Emphasize your willingness to learn and adapt.

Practice Interview Questions: Prepare for common testing interview questions focusing on both technical and behavioral aspects.

Apply for Jobs

Entry-Level Positions: Look for entry-level positions such as QA Tester, Software Tester, or Junior QA Engineer.

Use Job Boards: Utilize job boards like Indeed, Glassdoor, and specialized tech job sites to find relevant openings.

Be Persistent and Open-Minded

Stay Positive: The job search may take time, but persistence is key. Stay open to various roles that can lead you back into the industry.

Additional Resources

Books: Consider reading books like “The Art of Software Testing” by Glenford Myers, Tiene C. Arthanati, and Rex Black or “Automated Testing for Web Applications” by Mike SANDARD.

Online Communities: Participate in forums like Ministry of Testing or Stack Overflow to ask questions and learn from others.

By following these steps, you can effectively re-enter the testing field and build a successful career. Good luck!