Boost Your Chances of Getting Selected

We’ve all been there: you’re really excited to test a promising new software program or gadget, only to find out that you weren’t chosen because (surprise!) a bunch of other people signed up for the same private test. It can be disappointing and frustrating to not be picked, especially because often you don’t know why you weren’t picked.

Let’s discuss the best tips to help you stand out and get selected for more private exclusive testing opportunities, both with Betabound and other sources.

Be Thorough

Most private tests begin with a qualification survey. Filling out forms can be pretty tedious, and it’s tempting to skip over the stuff that isn’t required when signing up. However, those questions are there for a reason. The teams who create these signup pages are looking for specific qualities and skills. The amount of people applying for a private test usually outnumbers the number of available slots, so skipping even one of those questions could mean the difference between getting into this test and sitting on the sidelines.

Also, keep in mind that our test managers are looking for people who are going to be diligent and thorough when testing the product. The best place to show that you have these attributes is during the application process.

Keep It Fresh

Many applications will ask about your interest in the product being tested and product testing in general. When you’re answering these questions, make sure your answers are relevant to the product or company. If you’re applying to test a software product, talk about your interest in that software and contributing to its success. 

Test managers are not only looking for testers that fit the test requirements but also those with a genuine interest in the product. If you make sure your answers clearly and concisely cover those areas, you’ll be sure to stand out from the group. If all of your answers feel the same, our test managers will know right away and this will hurt your chances of getting picked.

Answer Honestly

We’re frequently asked by testers whether they should embellish the truth when filling out an application so that they can have a better chance of being chosen for a test. The answer is simple: no. 

It’s in your best interest to answer each question as honestly as possible. After all, if you say that you have tons of experience with coding when you’re unfamiliar with programming languages, you’re going to have trouble performing the tasks that are expected of you during the test. If you can’t perform the expected tasks, it will reflect negatively on you, which decreases your chances of being picked for future tests. Honesty is always the best policy.

In addition, a test might be looking for people who aren’t familiar with that type of product! These behind the scenes requirements are always unknown, so it’s in your best interest to answer honestly. 

Update Your Information Regularly

If you’re a Betabounder and have a profile with us, it’s important that you update your information regularly, including what test platforms you have, what languages you speak, what products you’re interested in testing, etc. 

We use this information to send out invites to exclusive testing opportunities, so by providing the most up to date information, you make sure that you’ll be eligible for any new and exciting opportunities that open up.

Apply Often

Gamblers and investors both like to hedge their bets, and as a tester, you should too. You might not get chosen for that one cool test, but if you sign up for five really cool tests, there’s a better chance you’ll get into at least one of them.

Just make sure you only accept the testing opportunity if you have the time to commit to the test. You don’t want to over-commit yourself and have to drop out halfway through because you don’t have time to give quality feedback.

Don’t Get Frustrated

Private tests can get ten times as many applicants as they have available spots, so you may have to wait a while before you get into your first private exclusive test. It’s important not to get frustrated and give up while you’re waiting for your chance to show the company what a great tester you are. The company will notice your dedication as you apply for their tests and eventually your chance to participate will come.

Cast a Wide Net

Don’t just apply for the big-name tests. The Betabound homepage has a feed of open testing opportunities run by a variety of companies that you can customize based on your interests. Many of these are public opportunities that don’t require an application to join, so you can start testing and giving feedback right away.

If you’re trying to get your foot in the door with a company’s testing program, consider applying for a test that might be less competitive, like a mobile app or a software test. This will give you the chance to show how great of a tester you are, which will help you get into the company’s more competitive tests in the future.

With these tips, you should be on your way to being chosen for more and more product tests.