How to Get a Mobile Testing Job Fast – Mobile Testing Career Guide (Part 1)

Mobile Testing Career Roadmap – Advice for Landing a Mobile Testing Role Promptly

Part 1: (You are here) Steps to Secure a Mobile Testing Role Promptly
Part 2: Mobile Testing Interview Queries with Sample Mobile Testing CV

The demand for proficient software testers, specifically mobile testers, is expected to increase significantly in the near future. Given the continuous advancement in the IT sector and the potential for new software applications still existing, this projection isn’t surprising.

The mobile industry isn’t a small player anymore, as evident from the fact that almost every software application has its respective mobile apps. Thus, the demand for mobile and mobile application testers is on the rise, a trend expected to persist into the future.

Steps to Build a Successful Career in Mobile Application Testing

How can we leverage this situation to create a prosperous career in mobile testing roles? – Investigate the vital skills needed:

• Competence in mobile devices – An extensive understanding of mobile devices, associated devices, networks, etc. A passion for gadgets such as mobile phones, iPads, or tablets can be very beneficial.
• Analytical abilities – These help breakdown complex problems into smaller, manageable sections for an easier understanding and solution.
• Technical abilities – These could include awareness of emulators, familiarity with mobile automation tools, setup, adeptness in MS Office for drafting test cases and creating test plans, and understanding of applications.

The Career Path in Mobile Testing

Career progression as a mobile tester is typically similar to that of a software tester and may vary from company to company and individual to individual. It can be outlined as follows:

QA/Mobile Tester (Novice) à Test Analyst (2-3 years of experience)à Senior Test Analyst (5-6 years of experience) => Test Lead (7-9 years of experience)à Test Manager (10-11 years of experience)à Senior Test Manager (12+ years of experience)

Several mobile testing certification programs are available in the market. The most recognized ones are provided by IMTQN (International Mobile Testing Qualifications Network). IMTQN is a globally operating organization that offers Mobile Application Testing qualification certifications.

• CMAP Mobile App Testing – Foundation Level – CMAP is a foundation-level international certification developed by iSQI.
• CMAP Certified Mobile App Professional – After attaining the foundation-level certification, testers can opt for this course.

Required Skills for Mobile Testing Jobs:

An in-depth list of skills to aim for in a mobile testing or mobile app testing career includes:

• Certifications – Although not always considered a necessity, possessing a certification such as CMAP Foundation Level can significantly boost your mobile testing career.
• Expertise in devices – A profound understanding of popular devices like iPhones, tablets, and smartphones such as the Samsung Galaxy, Sony Xperia, etc. Also, acquaintance with various mobile environments like iOS and Android is vital.
• Knowledge of testing – Familiarity with SDLC, STLC, black box testing, white box testing, and agile and waterfall methodologies is equally critical when applying for a mobile testing role.
• Mobile testing tools – Any experience with mobile testing tools can be highly advantageous for your mobile testing career. MonkeyTalk is a robust mobile app testing tool that can automate both iOS and Android apps. Other Android automation application testing tools include Ranorex, Appium, and UI Automator.

Here are some useful links for beginners seeking to grasp the basics:

More Mobile Testing Tutorials:

1. Novice’s Guide to Mobile App Testing
2. Top 5 Challenges in Mobile Testing and Their Solutions
3. Top 5 Tools for Testing Android Applications
4. Robotium Tutorial

Once you have attained the essential skills and feel prepared to apply, the next question to consider is:

Where to Search for Mobile Application Testing Jobs?

• Friends and referrals: This is one of the most reliable methods. Nevertheless, it’s recommended to fully comprehend the job description before applying.
• Mobile Testing Job Portals: Utilize various job portals such as Monster.com, Indeed.com, CWJobs, Glassdoor, Naukri.com, TimesJobs.com, SimplyHired, Careerjet, freelance mobile testing jobs, and others.
• Social Networks: Mobile testing jobs can be found on social networking sites like LinkedIn.
• Company Websites: Visit company websites and apply through their careers section.

To wrap up, the same principles that apply to seeking a standard QA job are also valid here. For more details, please visit: 3 Most Effective Ways to Apply for Your Next Job

Mobile App Testing Tips

Strategies and Hints to Get You Ready for Mobile App Testing:

#1) Setting Up the Application on Various Operating Systems

Android – For testing an application on Android devices, an initial setup is required. Navigate to Settings on your device, select Applications, and activate the Unknown Sources option. This allows the device to run non-market applications. These changes are required if you are not buying or installing the application from the Google Play store.

Android supports APK (Android Application Package) files. Verify that your file format is .apk only. These files can be downloaded using methods like barcode, Bluetooth transfer, email, etc. Download the application, click on it, and authorize the required permissions. Once the app is installed on the device, you can open it by selecting the application. Generally, the application shortcut gets created on the device screen after successful installation.

iOS – Connect your Apple device to your computer. To test an application on Apple devices, you need to install the application with the .ipa extension on your computer. Store the file in a convenient location on your PC. Open iTunes and find the file. Ensure your connected mobile device is displayed in iTunes. You will see it in the top right corner; select it from the sidebar. Go to the Apps section within your mobile device and confirm that the mobile app you added is there.

Finally, click the sync button in the bottom right-hand corner and wait until the mobile app is avaiiOS – lable. Unplug your device, open the mobile application, and check that it has been successfully installed.

#2) Capturing Screenshots on Mobile Devices

Android – If your device operates on Ice Cream Sandwich or a later version, you can capture screenshots by pressing the volume down and power buttons simultaneously and holding them for a second. The device will take a screenshot, which will be saved in the gallery.

If your device is running on a version earlier than Ice Cream Sandwich, the built-in screenshot feature may not be available. In such instances, you need to use utilities like No Root Screenshot to capture screenshots. Install this tool on both your device and PC, connect your device to the computer, and easily capture the screenshots.

iOS – Taking screenshots with iOS devices is easy. Press the power button and home button simultaneously and hold them for a second. The screen will be captured. Connect your device to iTunes, download the file to your computer, and conserve it.

#3) Testing in a Real Environment

Testing in a natural environment yields more precise results than using an emulator or simulator. Emulators fail to replicate user experience and usability effectively. They also cannot test the device’s hardware, software, and infrastructure. It is suggested to test end-to-end situations on actual devices to ensure that users do not encounter any issues when using the application in real-time.

#4) Error Log Collector

Android – If an application crashes during testing, an error log collector can be used to troubleshoot the problem. This collector collects the device’s log and forwards it to a developer through channels like emails or messages.

iOS – Logs can be found by syncing the device with iTunes on a computer. Identify the log file, open it on the computer, and the file name will begin with the application name.

#5) Manual vs. Automation

Automate tests for cases with clear expected outcomes and a high frequency. User interface testing should be performed manually. If any changes are made to the application’s functionality or modifications, there’s a high probability that the automated scripts will fail. Therefore, make sure that the scripts are maintainable.

#6) Testing a Web Application on a Mobile Device

Test your application on all necessary browsers. I suggest installing Safari, Firefox, Chrome, and Opera and testing the application on your mobile device. You can use online utilities and emulators to test the application on your computer. One such tool is Mobiletest, which is used for testing websites.

#7) Performance Testing

While functional testing is the primary focus for mobile applications, performance testing is equally crucial. Pay attention to performance to ensure that it complies with the necessary standards. Mobile testing aspirants can also specialize in performance testing and develop a career in this niche.

Summary

In summary, mobile device testing and mobile application testing offer stellar career prospects for the testing fraternity.

This piece provides a summary of various topics related to mobile testing careers, including certifications, tips, skills, and more.

In the next piece, we will explore how to gain the needed skills, prepare a résumé, and compose a cover letter for mobile testing jobs. In addition, we will provide typical mobile testing interview queries. Please stay connected.

As always, we appreciate your comments, queries, and suggestions. If you have successfully crafted a career in mobile application testing, please share your journey to inspire and assist others.

In our next piece, we will dive into Mobile Testing Interview Queries and Responses.