Menu
(701) 888-9087
contact@forgeqa.net
(701) 888-9087
contact@forgeqa.net
When it comes to landing that dream Quality Assurance (QA) job, most candidates understandably emphasize their technical prowess. But guess what? There’s another side to the QA industry that often gets overlooked: the power of interpersonal skills. At ForgeQA, we believe that mastering the art of communication, building rapport, and being honest about your knowledge gaps can be your secret weapons in acing those interviews. Let’s dive into the world of interviews and discover why soft skills matter just as much as your technical know-how.
85% of job success comes from having well‐developed soft and people skills, and only 15% of job success comes from technical skills and knowledge (hard skills).
–Charles Riborg Mann
The Power of Effective Communication
QA professionals know that clear and concise communication is essential in the field. It’s not just about finding bugs; it’s about conveying information accurately, collaborating effectively with your team, and building strong working relationships. So, how do you improve your communication skills? The answer is simple: become an active listener. Instead of planning your response, focus on truly understanding what they’re saying. Pay attention not only to their words but also to their non-verbal cues. Ask open-ended questions like “why do you feel that way?” or “what do you think about this?” This not only demonstrates your active listening skills but also shows that you value their thoughts and time. Active listening can help reduce conflicts, prevent misunderstandings, and make you a valuable team player.
Building Rapport
Picture this: you’re in an interview, and the conversation shifts from being strictly professional to feeling like a friendly chat. You’ve just discovered a shared interest, like your love for medieval jousting. Suddenly, you and your future boss are bonding over knights in shining armor, and when the time comes to make a decision about who gets the role, your conversation and shared interest is the first thing on their mind. This is the magic of building rapport. Treat each interview as a chance to have a genuine conversation. Yes, you need to answer the interviewer’s questions, but don’t forget to connect on a personal level. Being memorable as someone who can relate on a human level can give you an edge over other candidates.
Honesty about Knowledge Gaps
Candidates often dig themselves into a hole by claiming expertise in an area they’re not familiar with. This can lead to disastrous outcomes down the road. If you’re not familiar with a topic, it’s perfectly fine to admit it. In fact, it’s a sign of humility and a willingness to learn. Be truthful about what you don’t know and emphasize your eagerness to acquire new skills. Interviewers appreciate honesty and value candidates who take responsibility for their knowledge gaps.
Navigating Behavioral Questions
Ah, the dreaded behavioral questions. They can catch you off guard, but they’re more about how you handle the situation than having a “perfect” answer. Approach these questions with critical thinking, adaptability, and understanding in mind. Don’t just give the answer you think they want to hear. Ask clarifying questions to fully grasp the scenario and discuss your thought process openly. Remember, it’s about showcasing your problem-solving skills and your ability to handle challenges, not having a scripted response.
The Real Secret to Interview Prep
If you’ve ever searched for interview prep online, you’ve likely come across lists of rehearsed answers to common questions. But here’s a different approach to interview prep: make a new friend. Practice your conversational skills in everyday situations. Engage in real conversations, learn about others, and share your own experiences. These interactions will hone your ability to connect with interviewers on a personal level, helping you stand out.
Conclusion
At ForgeQA, we understand that being a great QA professional is about more than just technical skills. It’s about being the kind of team player that everyone wants to work with. We’re here to empower you to develop these often-overlooked soft skills that can set you apart in your QA career. Your success is as important to us as it is to you! So, keep honing those soft skills, and watch your interview success soar.
Remember, it’s not just about finding bugs; it’s about being the QA professional everyone wants on their team. Good luck out there!
contact@forgeqa.net
©ForgeQA All Rights Reserved 2023