The trend of working from home is becoming more and more popular, and many are trying to find a career that allows them to do so. An example of this is the testing of products which, apart from working from the comfort of your home, also offers a chance for a decent income.
However, if you are interested in such a career opportunity, you need to understand what qualities this industry is looking for.
In this article, we’ll talk about what a product tester is, what qualities these workers possess, what you need to do to become a tester, and how to be a professional and respected reviewer. Keep reading and find out more.
What Does a Product Tester Do
The work of a product tester consists in reviewing and analyzing goods from different manufacturers. This is done in order to evaluate the quality of the item as well as its effectiveness before it is released for sale.
In return, the company pays the testers or gives them free products that they can use further, according to Highlight. Also, the items given for testing usually remain with the testers, unless they are exclusive items that will need to be returned and mechanically inspected.
An example of goods that are usually examined are cosmetics, footwear, food products, clothes, toys as well as electronic devices.
How to Get a Job in Product Testing
Once you understand what a tester does, the next step is to figure out how to get the job. For this purpose, we have prepared a list which, if you follow, will make the process of getting a job easier.
Understand What Product You’d Want to Review
The first thing you should do when applying for a job as a reviewer is to figure out which group of products you want to test. This should match your interests and hobbies to have more insight into similar goods and possible comparisons.
Also, companies are looking for testers who match the demography of their products. For example, if it is an item intended for children, it would be a huge benefit if you have a child yourself.
Sign Up on Testing Websites
After you understand which products you want to test, the next step is to create an account on the sites that offer tester projects. Typically, sites are divided by the items they offer for review, so you’ll need to find a suitable platform.
Before creating an account, check the site if it is legitimate, and read the terms before agreeing.
For better organization, create a table in which you will enter all the platforms you have applied to.
Go Through the Selection Process
Once you find a product that you want to review and analyze, you may need to go through a selection process. Companies do this process in order to select a tester that most closely matches their idea and the ability to best test the item.
Usually, this selection process includes surveys that help the company learn more about you. For example, if it is about hiking equipment, the questionnaire will include questions such as whether you play sports, whether you hike, and how long you have been doing it.
Understand the Testing Requirements
After you are accepted, you will receive a list of requirements that will have to be met with your testing. Make sure you read this list carefully.
Usually, it says how the company wants the product to be reviewed, and what should be in the description. It also states the deadline by which the review should be sent. Naturally, if you need more information, you can always contact the company and find out everything you need.
Get to Testing and Reviewing
The last step is testing the item itself and preparing a review. Be sure to follow the requirements and use the product correctly.
While you’re doing the testing, it’s smart to make quality notes that will help you in the final writing of the review. Depending on the need and desire of the company, you may be asked to prepare a detailed description of the item, or simply fill out a questionnaire that they have prepared.
Qualities That Product Testers Have
Since we explained the process of how to get the job of a product tester, it is important to mention the important qualities that you should possess if you decide on this profession.
Excellent Writing Skills
One of the most important qualities is the ability to write beautifully, which will allow you to create detailed and in-depth reviews. Since testing without a review is worth nothing, writing is the main tool a tester uses.
Typically, reviews should be easy to read, clear, and to the point. For that, correct punctuation is required, as well as no errors in grammar. Fortunately, several tools help detect and correct grammatical errors that are definitely useful for all testers.
Manage Your Time Properly
Proper use of the time you have to complete tests is an essential characteristic of any product tester. This is important because of the frequent practice of testing multiple products at the same time, which will require you to make a priority list and follow it. Normally, projects that have an earlier deadline are worked on first.
Ability to Quickly Adjust to Different Products
The ability to quickly adapt to different products is another important characteristic of a professional and respected tester. Due to the many different items being reviewed at the same time, you need to adapt to each item individually so that each review is accurate and thorough.
Naturally, you can always choose the group of products you will work with. That way, you can focus on working with only one specific item group that will help you a lot in your career.
Conclusion
When a certain career offers you the opportunity to work from home and earn great money, the effort always pays off.
By working on your writing skills, using a great testing platform, and creating truthful and accurate reviews, you’ll be on the right track to becoming a professional and respected product tester.
