How do I get an automation testing job without experience?

Question

I've been working as a manual QA for a couple of years. I want to get an automation position. I took Java courses at a local college, I practiced, I learned Selenium, and I'm fairly confident I can pass the interview and do the job. Unfortunately, to pass an interview, you first need to get invited to one, which is where I'm having trouble. I understand why people are reluctant to interview me as I have no experience, but what can I do? There is no chance of me doing automation at my current job, and I really want to avoid taking another manual tester job with the 'perspective of doing automation later'. That's what my current job was supposed to be, but ended up being a purely manual position. I would appreciate any honest advice/opinion.

Answer 1

If I was you I would try assembling a portfolio of use cases you are proficient in (do mock automated UI testing for a random website/ application - JUnit is a must here), also try developing helper methods for common UI tasks (navigate to home page, select nth member of list, etc...) and link it to github if possible. An active github is very attractive. Also, establish a presence on LinkedIn with a list of your skills and qualifications and message some recruiters in your area. Honestly depending on where you live there are people who would give anyone an interview if they said they wanted to do Selenium testing. Either they will find you or will be willing to help you. If you really wanted to go the extra mile, start a Selenium tutorial series or something and link that. You need to show that even though you might not have the qualifications they're looking for, you have the drive and are very familiar with their testing library.

While all of this is happening, keep applying for jobs or whatever you are currently doing, because you never know what will happen or what opportunities will come your way. If there are any positions within your company above you that might open up/ check indeed or other job posting sites.

I've been writing automated UI tests for 3 years now with both Selenium and Test Studio, so I understand what you're going through I was there once, but you just need to be persistent and show you have what it takes. Believe in yourself.