Buzz
Do you love playing your favorite games or using cool software and wish you could play a part in its development? As a beta tester, you get early access to upcoming releases, help improve the product, and might even score a free copy. Many are eager to become beta testers, but few know how to begin. The good news is that getting started and succeeding as a beta tester is simpler than you might think.
Steps
Finding and Applying for a Position
Do your homework. While some games host open betas and some beta testing roles are publicly listed, many paid beta testing opportunities aren't widely advertised. If there's a specific game or software you're interested in, check the developer's website for any beta openings. You can also explore forums related to gaming or software testing, where you may find useful leads.
- If you don't have a particular game or software in mind, you can still find opportunities by searching online.
- Try searching terms like "Beta Testing Jobs", "Crowdsourced Beta Testing", and "Freelance Software Testing" to uncover plenty of available positions.
Reach out to developers. Once you’ve identified the products you're eager to test, find out who developed them. If they’re seeking beta testers, they may have an online application process. If not, don't hesitate to send a quick email. Briefly state your interest, any relevant testing experience, and your skills as a potential volunteer tester. Keep it short and direct.
- Remember, developers are often busy. Keep your message concise and professional.
Think about volunteering. Just like in many fields, volunteering is a great way to break into beta testing. Companies frequently seek volunteers for testing, and those who prove their skills and commitment might get offered a paid position down the road.
Stay on the lookout for new chances. Keep an eye on blogs, news articles, and sneak peeks for games or software that are entering the beta testing stage. These sources often provide early hints about new opportunities.
Join beta testing communities. Another excellent way to find opportunities is by joining beta testing groups. Developers sometimes post announcements about upcoming betas in these communities. Even if you don’t find a position right away, you’ll gain valuable experience and network with other testers.
EXPERT TIP
Tyrone Showers
Technologist
Technologist
Software testing requires both a keen eye for detail and a creative approach. While you’ll learn standard testing procedures, don't hesitate to explore more unconventional methods, such as chaos engineering. If you're skilled in areas like penetration testing, it will help you stand out in the job market. Contributing to open-source projects can provide valuable hands-on experience and networking opportunities. However, remember to also consider the business aspect — always keep the user's experience in mind. A creative approach to bug hunting will help you spot issues others might miss.
Testing Software
Be thorough and precise. If you become a beta tester, your main focus should be delivering clear, detailed feedback to the developer. The work may not always be as thrilling as you expected, and you'll likely be asked to test a single function repeatedly.
- There are many specialized roles in testing, so focus on mastering the one you're assigned.
- Excelling at a smaller task could lead to more varied and exciting responsibilities down the line.
Pay attention to the GUI. A great place to start beta testing is by reviewing the General User Interface (GUI). Make sure it's intuitive, easy to navigate, and pleasant to use. The overall experience should be quick and seamless, enhancing the user’s enjoyment.
Ensure all functions are logical. Every function or button on a page should make sense both visually and practically. Do the tabs belong where they are? Are related tabs placed together? It’s important to assess these aspects, as there’s often more to consider than meets the eye.
Check that the mechanics work as expected. This is the most common task that comes to mind when people think of beta testing. Test simple actions repeatedly and verify that they function as intended. You’ll need to understand how the mechanics should operate by discussing them with the developer, and use that as the benchmark for your testing.
- Though it might seem exciting to test gameplay elements like running or shooting, more often than not, you’ll be doing repetitive tasks like running into or shooting the same wall.
- Stick to the assigned tasks and avoid testing beyond the specified parameters.
Promote the product professionally. Always maintain a professional tone when discussing the product you’re testing. If you dislike it, keep your opinions to yourself. After all, you're working with a pre-release version, and your role is to be objective and constructive.
- Publicly criticizing a product can jeopardize future testing opportunities.
- As a capable beta tester, your feedback helped improve the product.
- If you had a positive experience, consider recommending the testing position to friends who might be a good fit.
- Be polite in your email — professionalism goes a long way and shows you're ready for the job.
- Complete all "optional" sections in an online application. This can significantly boost your chances of being selected.
- Avoid sounding pretentious or overly technical. Your authenticity will shine through more than trying to appear overly geeky.
Important Warnings
- Avoid downloading software from untrustworthy sites, as they may contain malware.
- Make sure you fully understand and follow any non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) that come with being a beta tester.
