Here's how you can secure a competitive salary in Quality Assurance without prior industry experience.

As per my thought process, salary should not be a concern if you're new in the Testing Industry. Priority should be technical at the utmost. Make a good and skillful portfolio, and make end-to-end projects. Learn technical things/tools as much as you can and that too practically and not theory. This will boost your confidence if you don't have any prior experience.

In real world, there is no such thing like that. However that doesn't mean it's impossible. If the person has built a strong portfolio and has lots of knowledge in the software industry without having actual work experience, this will definitely raise the person's stocks.

I appreciate you highlighting the importance of self-directed learning and skill development, as these factors can often carry more weight than direct experience when negotiating a higher starting salary. Gaining relevant knowledge through online courses and familiarizing oneself with QA methodologies like Agile and Scrum is indeed crucial. These methodologies are widely adopted in the industry, and having a solid understanding of their principles and practices can demonstrate a candidate's ability to integrate seamlessly into an organization's workflow. Additionally, hands-on experience with tools like JIRA for project management and Selenium for test automation is invaluable.

I agree that some ways to secure a competitive salary in QA is to build a good foundation in Quality by completing relevant certifications in the area you would like to advance in. In addition, I’ve found doing research and reading quality improvement papers help to see how Quality tools are used in various fields, industries and projects. Improvement can happen anywhere, networking and joining Quality improvement groups/ communities also help to build competence.

Networking is very important. In Lebanon, we created a community for QA engineers named QualiLeb. People here in Beirut often have communities for Devs and software engineers but never for QAs. It was and still a great opportunity to create a network hub were we can share knowledge and experience and do gatherings as well.

I agree networking is very important in the Quality world. The sharing of improvement can help resolve common issues and influence the development of your product/ service. There are several networking opportunities when you attend conferences, take courses, join groups and associations like ASQ, IHI or local communities that drive Quality. I would also suggest industry hopping, get engaged with quality people and systems outside of your field to learn more about the use of Quality tools and techniques and outcomes beyond your natural habitat.

To network smartly in the QA field, it's imperative that one should attend industry conferences, join QA-focused forums and communities online, participate in local meetups or professional associations (like ISTQB), and leverage social media platforms like LinkedIn. Building genuine relationships, offering help and support to other people, and maintaining a positive professional reputation are key to successful networking in QA.

Engage with QA communities online or in-person to network with professionals and seek mentorship opportunities. Networking can provide valuable insights into industry trends and potential job opportunities.

I must say networking can play a vital role in getting good salary without prior experience. You should learn and showcase your leanings at LinkedIn so that your linkedin network have your attention. Reach out to people and ask feedbacks about your learning. Join as many active communities dedicated to quality assurance as possible. I myself have created Salesforce Testblazer community for Salesforce Testers. You can find the link in my bio. Thank me later 😊

Linked In is a valuable digital platform - it has a high Google ranking, so typically, if you search your name, your Linked In profile will be high on the search list. There are 2 key elements to maximising how you showcase your aptitude. As an on-line platform, there are elements of Search Engine Optimisation that people need to consider and there are a number of very highly skilled Linked In "Guru's" that can help. You can showcase your abilities across your Linked In profile. This includes your Headline, what you say about your job descriptions and your what your skill endorsements and recommendations say. Get over that it may not come natural and ask people you have worked with to help (Recommend or Endorse). Add certifications......

Tailor your resume with QA-specific keywords to pass Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) Prepare for interviews by showcasing problem-solving skills and attention to detail, as these are top qualities sought in QA roles Highlight your hands-on experience, certifications, and tool proficiencies. These steps can increase your chances of securing a competitive salary by 40%, according to industry surveys

Always in your resume don't include only the technologies you used, but also add how it impacted the team positively. This is crucial because it shows how your contribution is adding value not only which tools you use.

1. Upskilling: research and select the methods most suitable for your own needs, i.e. online courses, novice programmes, direct coaching/mentoring to reach the certified stage. 2. Networking: engaging in industry discussions, be it meetups, other QAs who attract attention to their posts on networks like LI, Twitter, etc. 3. Showcase relevant projects or industry work, i.e. personal, coaching, academic work. Use industry recognised terms for CV - KISS: keep it short and sweet, you can discuss further on call. 4. Be yourself and put your self forward - emulating someone else may show inconsistencies in your everyday, end up somewhere you might leave within 6 months. Fit in where you should..