
3 July 2024 Leave a comment QA
Interviewing candidates for manual or automated testing positions can be challenging. One innovative approach is to conduct a paired exploratory testing session. This method provides insight into a candidate’s testing skills, communication abilities, and how well they might integrate into your team. Below, we outline the benefits and key considerations for implementing this interview format.
Why Consider Paired Exploratory Testing?
Paired exploratory testing involves two testers working together to explore and test a web application or resource. This approach offers several advantages:
- Collaboration: Working in pairs encourages communication and collaboration, which are crucial in a team setting.
- Efficiency: Two minds can often identify issues more quickly and thoroughly than one.
- Learning Opportunity: It provides a platform to observe how a candidate designs test cases, approaches problem-solving, and responds to feedback.
What to Look for in a Candidate
During the paired exploratory testing session, consider evaluating the following aspects:
- Team Compatibility: Assess whether the candidate would work well with your existing team.
- Test Case Design: Observe their ability to design effective test cases and produce reproducible results.
- Communication Skills: Note how well they communicate their thoughts and findings during the session.
- Critical Feedback Response: Pay attention to how they handle and respond to critical feedback.
- Quick Learning: Evaluate their ability to quickly grasp new concepts and tools.
Structuring the Interview
A well-structured interview can provide a comprehensive view of the candidate’s abilities. Here’s a suggested format:
- Introduction: Briefly explain the product and the goals of the session.
- Time-Boxed Session: Conduct a 45-minute exploratory testing session with a tester colleague.
- Review: Spend 15 minutes reviewing the results with the hiring manager. Allow the candidate to explain their approach and what they would do differently next time.
This structure ensures that the interview remains focused and productive, providing valuable insights into the candidate’s capabilities.
Alternative Approaches
For test automation positions, consider a pair-programming session on a simple application. This method allows you to assess their coding skills and problem-solving abilities in a practical context.
Additional Considerations
Here are some additional tips to enhance the interview process:
- Preparation: Ensure that the test environment is set up and that the candidate understands the context of the application being tested.
- Tools and Resources: Provide necessary tools such as DevTools and note-taking materials.
- Feedback Loop: Encourage candidates to articulate their thought process and testing strategy.
Enhancing Your Testing Strategy with Repeato
While paired exploratory testing is an excellent method for evaluating candidates, maintaining high-quality testing standards in your projects requires robust tools. Repeato, a no-code test automation tool for iOS and Android, can significantly streamline your testing process. With its computer vision and AI capabilities, Repeato allows you to create, run, and maintain automated tests effortlessly. This tool is particularly beneficial for teams looking to enhance their quality assurance processes without extensive coding knowledge.
For more information on how Repeato can support your testing needs, visit our documentation page.