Find Your Dream QA Job: 5 Easy Steps to Success
As some of you may have seen on my YouTube channel, I recently started a new job as a test consultant in Switzerland. The past few weeks have been quite hectic as my family and I packed up our lives in Austria and relocated. After several weeks of settling in, I’m finally at a point where I can work peacefully and start writing again.
You might be curious about how I landed this job and why I decided to move. Was I dissatisfied with my old job, or was there another reason? What were the specific steps I took to search for and secure a new position as a QA engineer? In today’s blog post, I’ll share my journey and outline five simple steps you can follow to find your dream job.
Also be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel were I will make a video about this and similar topics in the near future
Why Consider a Job Change?
While it seems common, especially among the younger generation, to change jobs frequently, I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it. There are valid reasons to seek new challenges or positions, but it should always be a well-considered decision. The grass isn't always greener on the other side; often, it's just a different patch of grass with similar problems.
Signs It's Time for a New Job
So, when would I recommend searching for a new job? Firstly, if you’re unhappy with your current work environment. Perhaps you feel trapped in a toxic atmosphere, or you do not have the best relationship with your colleagues. Even the best job in the world can be miserable if the environment is terrible.
Seeking New Challenges
Another reason for seeking a new job could be the need for a new challenge. This was the case for me in a previous position. I felt like I had learned everything I could in that role, and the company structure didn’t allow for further growth or new achievements. This kind of situation can be a compelling reason to seek new opportunities and challenges.
Better Opportunities and Salary
Lastly, wanting a better position or a higher salary is a valid reason to consider a job change. While people might not always feel comfortable discussing it, it’s important. Statistically, you’re more likely to see a significant salary increase when changing jobs compared to asking for a raise or climbing the corporate ladder at your current company. So, if you’re dissatisfied with your current salary, it might be a good reason to look for something new.
My Reasons
You might be wondering why I decided to look for a new job. There were two main reasons. First, I wanted to move to Switzerland because my mother lives here, and my wife and I had always thought about relocating. The second reason is my interest in consulting. I gained some experience in consulting at my previous company and really enjoyed it. However, my current company didn't foresee many new consulting opportunities in the near future, so I started looking for something new. Lastly, to be fully transparent, the salary was also a factor. Inflation hit Austria hard, making Switzerland's opportunities even more appealing.
5 Steps to Land Your Next QA Job
So, what exact steps did I take to find my new job, and what would I recommend to others who are also looking for a new position? Here are five steps to finding a new job as a QA engineer:
Decide on the Exact Position You Want
Identify the specific role you want within the testing field. Are you aiming to be a QA manager, an automation test engineer, a QA analyst, a test consultant, or a software engineer in test? The testing field offers a variety of positions, and knowing exactly what you want will help you focus your job search. Research the various roles to find the one that suits you best. For example, I wanted to delve more into consulting, so I specifically searched for test consultant positions and similar roles.
Search for the Specific Job Title on Different Platforms
Once you've decided on the role you want, start searching for it on various job platforms. Utilize well-known platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, or Glassdoor, but also consider a simple Google search with the job title and the region you're targeting. For example, I searched for "test consultant jobs in Switzerland." This approach will give you a comprehensive view of the available positions and where you can find your new job. Also, try to be as specific as possible when searching for a new job. If you want to work remotely, include "remote" in your search. If you're interested in the medical field, add that to your search terms as well. This way, you'll find positions that closely match your expectations and preferences.
Read the Job Description Carefully
From my experience assisting in the hiring process, I've seen many candidates apply for positions without thoroughly reading the job description. This can lead to mismatches, such as experienced professionals applying for junior roles and vice versa. It's crucial to carefully read each job description to understand the job's focus. Is it more on manual testing or test automation? Are they looking for an experienced candidate or a beginner? What frameworks and areas will you be responsible for? By carefully reading the description, you can better evaluate if the job is truly a good fit for you. Do not apply blindly to every job out there. Recruiters and hiring managers can quickly tell when you’re doing this, and it doesn’t leave a good impression.
Polish Your CV and Write a Compelling Cover Letter
Once you find a job that interests you, the next step is to polish your CV and write a compelling cover letter. Your cover letter should explain why you want to work for this specific company and what unique qualities you can bring to the role. Avoid simply repeating the facts from your CV; instead, use this opportunity to give them a sense of who you are and your enthusiasm for the position.
For your CV, highlight the skills and experiences relevant to the job you're applying for. For instance, if you're applying for a test automation engineer position that requires experience with Cypress, make sure to detail your experience with Cypress in your CV. Describe when and how you used it in previous projects or products, as this is what the hiring team will be looking for. This tailored approach will make your application stand out.
Apply to the New Job:
The final step is to send out your application. Remember, you might not get invited to interview for every position, but don't get discouraged. Treat each application with the same level of seriousness and effort.
If you have multiple job vacancies that interest you, start by applying to those that aren't your absolute dream jobs. This way, you can practice and refine your application process. Once you've gained some experience and confidence, apply to the positions you are most excited about. This strategy can help you improve your chances of landing your ideal job.
I followed this approach as well, applying to three different positions. I received one rejection, made it to the first round of interviews for another, and ultimately landed an offer for my current position. This role involved a longer hiring process, but I’ll share more about that in another blog post. I'm also planning a blog post on job interview questions and how to prepare for them as a QA engineer. If you're interested in this topic or have any questions, let me know in the comments.
Applying for jobs can be challenging, but with the right tools and mindset, it becomes a bit less daunting. Don’t let setbacks discourage you; keep looking ahead, and you’ll eventually find your dream job in testing. Stay tuned for my upcoming blogs where I’ll dive deeper into the hiring process and share tips on acing job interviews as a QA engineer. Good luck with your job search, and remember, persistence pays off!