Starting Out In Game Testing
I hear from so many of my subscribers that they are just starting out in game testing or want to break into testing and don’t know where to start.
The most important thing you must remember is that there is a certain level of skill required in different areas before you decide to get involved with game testing, even if it is at the entry level.
What most companies require for entry level positions are:
1. Some computer experience. You should know the basics. General programs like word and excel. How to get around, how to work around technical issues that may arise etc.
2. Good communication skills. You must be able to get your point across when needed but you also have to listen. So you’ve got to be able to communicate with people, get along well with others, and basically follow instructions.
3. This one is the easiest for many of us, a passion for gaming. If you don’t love games, then you certainly won’t do well trying to test them out. Don’t get me wrong, not all testing is fun by any stretch of the imagination but if you’re not committed then getting involved in the game industry won’t get you very far.
If you’ve got the basics, now the next step is finding the job.
There are lots of memberships that allow you to apply for multiple positions and put everything right at your fingertips. This can be a great option, but it’s not your only option.
You can also search for jobs on your own. If you’re interested in a particular company, locate their main website and then search for a link labeled “jobs” or “careers”. Then you can find something that suits what you’re looking for.
Are there game testing “classes” available? None that I know of. It’s not something that is taught, although many employers DO put their testers through training prior to getting them started with the testing process. This is where you learn what it takes to test a game and the steps you follow to do so.
You can also get involved in unpaid beta tests usually held online that will give you some testing credentials that you can then place on your resume. One very popular site is Microsoft Playtest.
It’s important to remember that if you’re looking for a paid job, you must legally be 18 or over. This is simply because it’s easier for an employer to hire someone of the legal age so they do not have to worry about working restrictions of any kind.
If you’re looking to do unpaid testing, than age normally is not an issue.
Want more information on game testing? Sign up on my site Game-Testers.com and I’ll show you everything you would ever need to know on how best to get started.
PS. Want a game job right now? Then sign up here:
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