It is one common question that is popular among the testing professionals in the software sector. Both new comers and experienced software QA professionals are both excited at the same time confused about whether having a software testing certification is likely going to make any difference for their career or not. For those who have joined in companies afresh as a QA tester and for those who desire to kick start their career in software testing, this article will be of immense help. And also for experienced professionals who are still undecided about whether to get certified or not.

Importance of Certification

In today's world where economy is growing, the need for certification has become a necessity rather than a choice so as to reach skilled employee base. Furthermore it helps you gain some practical knowledge about what is actually required in the work place rather than merely restricting to theoretical knowledge. Certification plays a vital role in bridging the educational gaps if any. It also helps them stay updated with the latest industry trends and best practices.

Advantages of QA Testing Certification

Beginners in QA

• It offers you the opportunity to stand out from the rest as it gives a distinct advantage for the candidate during a job interview where other candidates may or may not have been certified.
• It helps your resume to easily get shortlisted because of the enhanced software testing skills you have acquired through QA Testing Certification. It gives a sense of confidence for the employer during the initial screening process of short listing resumes much before the interview actually happens. More and more companies are now considering certification as an important selection criterion as it makes the employers feel that the candidate has the basic understanding of testing concepts as well as the knowledge of standard testing terminology.

Experienced in QA

• It helps you get growth in the same firm where you are working since having a certification will give you an edge over others when it comes to understanding of deep testing knowledge and testing practices.
• Having a certification will also make you eligible to look for enhanced job opportunities in other companies. Most often even if you are experienced testing professional with several years of industry experience, you might have a specialization in only one aspect of software testing such as Functional Testing and would be unaware of other testing methods. But by having a certification, you need not have to worry about such aspects as you will be updated about the technology and other standard testing definitions.

Drawbacks of QA Testing Certification

• It cannot be considered as an assurance towards getting a job and it is not necessary that those having a certification are aware about all the needful information about software testing.
• Many of the companies do not take certifications in to consideration if they feel the candidate have the desired skills and hands-on experience working as a QA Software Tester.