There are over 1.8 billion websites and more created every day. This also opens up software, digital products, games, and web platforms that need to be tested prior to release. This is why QA testers are indispensable in the software development lifecycle.

Software testers have different roles, depending on the project. This process includes two types of testing: manual and automated testing. And there are different types of testing, such as functional testing, configuration testing and system testing, to name a few. Here are 5 tips to become a professional software quality tester.

Role of QA testers: What matters to software quality assurance

Software testers have different roles, depending on the project. This process includes two types of testing: manual and automated testing. And there are different types of testing, such as functional testing, configuration testing and system testing, to name a few.

As a professional freelance QA tester, you need to be familiar with the different types of testing and how they affect the performance of the software. You will also perform web, mobile and desktop application quality assurance. And since this process involves a lot of communication with developers and other team members, freelance QA testers must have excellent communication skills to receive guidance and report evaluation results.

How to become a QA tester: 5 essential tips

Here are practical tips that you can use to become a professional QA tester for software programs.

1. Determine who you want to work with

The QA testing and software development industry is broad and diverse. If you’re looking to pursue a freelance career in QA testing, it can be beneficial to spend some time learning about the work you’ll be doing and your potential clients. Before you spend time, money, and effort getting technical training, take a look at the freelance QA testers skill requirements of the companies you want to work for.

Use Upwork to test the skill requirements that engineers, startups, and software developers are looking for in QA testers. The platform is a great starting point where you can find out what types of testing are required and if you need to update your skills.

2. Pursue a high-quality technical training program

While most of your potential clients may prefer QA testers with a bachelor’s degree in engineering or computer science, this is usually not required. During the team selection process, team members are often asked to go through an interview and technical test, and that’s the part you need to prepare for.

Get familiar with several computer languages and prepare to learn more. Start with the most common languages used in software tools and applications, such as Java, C#, and Python. Other languages include C, Go, HTML, JavaScript, Ruby and Unix scripting.

Consider taking an online course or tutorial to strengthen your knowledge of operability and usability testing.

3. Earn Certifications and Recommendations

You can choose to pursue specific certifications issued by professional associations or manufacturers of experimental software. They are useful, whether you are a beginner or have many years of experience in QA testers.

4. Learn trading tools

As a freelancer, you will have to sell constantly. And to do that, you need to speak the language. So learn the tools of the transaction and get acquainted with the popular applications that help testers and programmers do their jobs.

5. Don’t Neglect Your Soft Skills

Just because you’ll be working behind a computer doesn’t mean you should neglect your people skills. To succeed as a QA testers, you need to be able to interact effectively with clients, members of the software development team, and other freelancers. Your attitude, work ethic, communication skills, and ability to work and collaborate with others are just as essential to your success as the technical skills you have.