Friday, December 25, 2009

Seven Reasons to Grab a Software Testing Certification

The best time to prepare for the worst is when times are good. Currently the software testing job market is relatively stable, but with the kind of downfall the financial markets have seen in past twelve or more months, nobody knows what will happen next. It is the appropriate time to enhance your skill set. In this article we will cover seven reasons why you should go for software testing certifications today.


1. Retaining your job: Many IT professionals have recently lost their job or have trouble finding a new one. No company would let a highly qualified professional go easily. When you are a certified tester, you stand out from your peers. You would never find you name in the list of those who are to be handed pink slips.

2. Maintaining your salary: Most of the organizations have opted to reduce the monthly wages of their staff. A reduction in salary is more cruel way than laying off employees; for once the market becomes stable, even an increment will not make a significant impact to the organization for they were paying you the same before as well. Again here certified personal will always be praised for extra effort he has put in being certified and though not a surety will help him reduce his chances of a salary cut.

3. Promotion and progress: Certification is an extra qualification you possess over the work experience you have gained. When it comes to promotion, you will definitely have an advantage over your peers and may be some immediate seniors as well when your resume is boosted with software testing certifications. Organizations are stressing the need for gaining certifications and some have even made it mandatory.

4. Enhancement to skill set: Certifications are a symbolic representation and quantifies your capabilities. It not just improves your skill set but also adds to your work experience. Some organizations have become picky in many cases when they put an additional requirement that in job advertisements that only certified professionals should apply.

5. Earning Credibility: When you support an argument with a fact or figure, you always see a swing in your favor. Similarly a certification helps you earn the credibility. You are respected and you don't have to prove your skills time and again.

6. Innovation: Gaining certifications gives you more insight into your skill set. Many new idea crops into your mind and your perception of looking at the work changes. It makes you think beyond and be innovative.

7. Gain Confidence: If nothing else could work, certifications can help you gain confidence. Passing a certification makes you fell relieved and relaxed. Certifications are steps to pass to be on the track for a bright future. Another advantage is that you are updated on the latest thinking and techniques in software testing.

If you do go ahead and decide to study for a software testing certification, Good Luck.



Source:  Martin Gessner