SummaryIn this episode of Quality Talks, host Stu Day welcomes Yulia Sharabi, a seasoned QA manager, to discuss her journey in the field of Quality Assurance. Yulia shares her experiences transitioning from manual to automated testing, the challenges of leading teams, and the importance of adapting to change in the tech industry. The conversation delves into the evolution of QA education, the significance of building trust within teams, and the emotional aspects of implementing change. Yulia emphasises the need for patience, understanding, and preparation when introducing new processes and tools in a workplace. The episode concludes with Yulia's advice to embrace opportunities and say yes to new challenges.TakeawaysYulia has over a decade of experience in QA across various industries.She transitioned from manual testing to leading distributed teams in the crypto domain.Education in QA often lacks focus on practical testing methodologies.Adapting to change is crucial in QA roles, especially with evolving technologies.Building trust within teams is essential for successful change management.Understanding the audience is key when introducing new tools or processes.Emotional aspects play a significant role in how teams respond to change.Patience is necessary when implementing new methodologies in teams.Yulia's personal experiences have influenced her approach to QA leadership.Saying yes to opportunities can lead to unexpected and rewarding paths. Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background05:56 Career Journey in QA and Tech11:19 Education and the Importance of QA13:36 Transitioning from Individual Contributor to Leadership19:18 Managing Change and Resistance25:11 Navigating Leadership Challenges30:27 The Role of QA in Startups32:20 Transforming Testing Methodologies35:01 Navigating Change with Patience37:10 Understanding Team Dynamics39:32 Choosing the Right Tools41:37 Considering Stakeholders in Change44:16 Building Trust Across Departments45:51 Preparing for Change48:39 Challenges and Learning Moments52:45 Recruitment and Team BuildingLinks:Yulia's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yulia-sharabi/Yulia's MoT Profile: https://www.ministryoftesting.com/p/yudit?s_id=19028979Yulia’s Blog: https://medium.com/@yudit77091
SummaryIn this live in person episode of the Quality Talks podcast, hosts Stu Day and James Milner explore the evolving landscape of leadership in technology. Joined by guests Rachael Morgan and Cleveland Henry, they discuss personal journeys into leadership, the importance of mentorship, and the critical role of respect and authenticity in effective leadership. The conversation delves into creating a culture of safety and innovation, learning from failure, and the inspirational moments that shape leaders. Through personal anecdotes and insights, the episode highlights the multifaceted nature of leadership and the continuous growth required to navigate the challenges of the tech industry. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of leadership, emphasising the importance of resilience, confidence, and adaptability in navigating challenges. They discuss the evolving landscape of leadership in a tech-driven world, particularly with the rise of AI, and the critical role of mentorship and community in personal and professional growth. The dialogue highlights the significance of learning from experiences and the necessity of addressing societal challenges as leaders.Chapters00:00 Personal Journeys into Leadership10:15 Defining Leadership Traits and Skills14:05 The Importance of Respect in Leadership18:10 Management vs. Leadership: Key Differences25:16 Creating a Culture of Innovation and Mistakes28:59 The Privilege of Leadership29:58 Coaching and Problem Solving30:57 Practicing Failure in Technology31:54 Creating a Safe Environment for Failure32:52 The Role of Leadership in Failure33:23 Learning from Failures36:18 Moments of Inspiration in Leadership40:52 The Power of Simple Beliefs43:55 Finding Confidence in Leadership49:08 The Nature of Confidence52:59 Taking Action and Moving Forward53:13 The Future of Leadership in a Changing World56:05 The Importance of Adaptability in Leadership59:25 Navigating the Digital Leadership Landscape01:01:48 The Role of Mentorship and Community in Growth01:04:51 Defining Success Beyond Titles and Wealth01:08:39 Addressing Current Challenges in Leadership01:12:08 The Impact of Technology on Society and Leadership01:19:09 The Human Element in Leadership Challenges01:22:09 EndTakeawaysLeadership is ever-evolving and requires adaptability.Mentorship plays a crucial role in shaping leaders.Respect is fundamental in building effective leadership.Creating a safe environment encourages innovation and risk-taking.Learning from failure is essential for growth.Authenticity in leadership fosters trust and respect.Leadership is about empowering others, not just managing tasks.The best leaders are those who can inspire belief in others.Personal experiences shape leadership styles and approaches.Effective communication is key to successful leadership. You can't expect to be the person that makes everything right.Confidence is often mistaken for the loudest voice in the room.The only thing that is constant is change.Success is being happy, not about money.Surround yourself with a diversity of voices.Experience compounds; time is the best lesson.Mentors are unbelievable; they challenge you.It’s important to have different perspectives.AI could be really dangerous if not managed well.
SummaryIn this live in person episode of the Quality Talks podcast, hosts Stu Day and James Milner explore the evolving landscape of leadership in technology. Joined by guests Rachael Morgan and Cleveland Henry, they discuss personal journeys into leadership, the importance of mentorship, and the critical role of respect and authenticity in effective leadership. The conversation delves into creating a culture of safety and innovation, learning from failure, and the inspirational moments that shape leaders. Through personal anecdotes and insights, the episode highlights the multifaceted nature of leadership and the continuous growth required to navigate the challenges of the tech industry. In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of leadership, emphasising the importance of resilience, confidence, and adaptability in navigating challenges. They discuss the evolving landscape of leadership in a tech-driven world, particularly with the rise of AI, and the critical role of mentorship and community in personal and professional growth. The dialogue highlights the significance of learning from experiences and the necessity of addressing societal challenges as leaders.Chapters00:00 Personal Journeys into Leadership10:15 Defining Leadership Traits and Skills14:05 The Importance of Respect in Leadership18:10 Management vs. Leadership: Key Differences25:16 Creating a Culture of Innovation and Mistakes28:59 The Privilege of Leadership29:58 Coaching and Problem Solving30:57 Practicing Failure in Technology31:54 Creating a Safe Environment for Failure32:52 The Role of Leadership in Failure33:23 Learning from Failures36:18 Moments of Inspiration in Leadership40:52 The Power of Simple Beliefs43:55 Finding Confidence in Leadership49:08 The Nature of Confidence52:59 Taking Action and Moving Forward53:13 The Future of Leadership in a Changing World56:05 The Importance of Adaptability in Leadership59:25 Navigating the Digital Leadership Landscape01:01:48 The Role of Mentorship and Community in Growth01:04:51 Defining Success Beyond Titles and Wealth01:08:39 Addressing Current Challenges in Leadership01:12:08 The Impact of Technology on Society and Leadership01:19:09 The Human Element in Leadership Challenges01:22:09 EndTakeawaysLeadership is ever-evolving and requires adaptability.Mentorship plays a crucial role in shaping leaders.Respect is fundamental in building effective leadership.Creating a safe environment encourages innovation and risk-taking.Learning from failure is essential for growth.Authenticity in leadership fosters trust and respect.Leadership is about empowering others, not just managing tasks.The best leaders are those who can inspire belief in others.Personal experiences shape leadership styles and approaches.Effective communication is key to successful leadership. You can't expect to be the person that makes everything right.Confidence is often mistaken for the loudest voice in the room.The only thing that is constant is change.Success is being happy, not about money.Surround yourself with a diversity of voices.Experience compounds; time is the best lesson.Mentors are unbelievable; they challenge you.It’s important to have different perspectives.AI could be really dangerous if not managed well.
SummaryIn this episode of the Quality Talks podcast, host Stu Day engages with Dora Chatzinaki, a seasoned tech professional, host of the Verified Geek podcast and advocate for women in tech. They discuss Dora's journey in the tech industry, her experiences in leadership roles, and the challenges of influencing change within organisations. The conversation emphasises the importance of confidence, patience, and understanding organisational dynamics while advocating for diversity and learning from failure. Dora shares her insights on building trust as a leader and the significance of collaboration in driving meaningful change.TakeawaysDora has been in tech for 17 years, starting as a junior engineer.She emphasises the importance of women in tech and advocates for diversity.Influencing change requires understanding why it's needed within an organisation.Confidence comes from experience and learning from failures.Patience is crucial when trying to implement change in organisations.Building trust is essential for effective leadership.Change can come from any level within an organisation, not just leadership.Diversity of ideas enhances problem-solving and innovation.Understanding organisational structures is key to influencing change.Collaboration and support from others are vital for successful change initiatives.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Quality Talks Podcast01:15 Dora's Journey in Tech02:37 Influencing Change in Organisations05:05 Challenges of Being a Woman in Tech08:13 Driving Diversity and Inclusion10:47 Building Confidence in the Workplace14:17 Navigating Influence Without Authority16:58 Learning from Failure19:55 The Importance of Empathy in Leadership21:50 Perseverance and Patience in Change24:57 Adapting to Change in Tech28:39 Consulting and Learning from Others31:12 Building Support Networks for Change36:14 The Power of Diverse Perspectives41:43 Challenges of Influencing Change in Organisations48:00 Understanding Organisational Dynamics54:09 Earning Trust as a Leader01:00:35 Closing Things Out
SummaryIn this episode of the Quality Talks podcast, host Stu Day engages with special guest Mohammad Arif, the head of QA at FX Digital, to explore the unique challenges and innovations in the realm of connected TV testing. They discuss the evolution of FX Digital, the importance of client feedback, and the structure of QA and QE teams. Delving into the complexities of device fragmentation, the integration of AI in testing processes, and the growing emphasis on sustainability in technology. Arif shares insights into the device lab at FX Digital and the innovative solutions developed to address testing challenges, highlighting the future of connected TV and the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.TakeawaysThe connected TV space is a niche but growing area in software testing.FX Digital specialises in testing for smart TVs and connected devices.Client feedback is crucial for continuous improvement in quality assurance.The structure of QA and QE teams can enhance collaboration and efficiency.Device fragmentation poses unique challenges in testing connected TVs.Innovative solutions are often required to address testing challenges in this field.Automation in testing connected TVs requires unique approaches due to device limitations.Sustainability is becoming increasingly important in technology testing environments.AI is being integrated into testing processes to improve efficiency and accuracy.The future of connected TV includes exploring new technologies and user experiences.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction02:48 Exploring Connected TV and Its Challenges06:03 The Evolution of FX Digital08:58 Quality Assurance in Connected TV12:06 Client Feedback and Continuous Improvement15:02 Team Structure and Collaboration18:02 Device Fragmentation and Testing Strategies20:26 The Role of Quality Engineering23:35 Navigating Client Needs and Device Support34:17 The Evolution of TV Technology36:48 Innovations in Automation for TV Apps40:42 Visual-Based Automation and Accessibility46:10 The Device Lab: Challenges and Innovations49:16 Sustainability in Testing Practices54:28 The Future of Automation and AI in TV Testing01:01:02 Exploring Streaming Devices and Their Challenges01:06:18 End
SummaryIn this episode of the Quality Talks podcast, hosts Stu and Chris discuss the concept of superpowers in the context of their professional lives.They explore various superpowers suggested by their community, including vulnerability, empathy, and the ability to communicate clearly.The conversation delves into how these superpowers can enhance leadership, teamwork, and personal growth. They also touch on the importance of community engagement and the value of difficult conversations in fostering understanding and connection.The episode concludes with reflections on the unique superpowers each individual possesses and how they can leverage them for personal and professional development.TakeawaysVulnerability can be a powerful tool in public speaking.Community engagement enhances the exploration of ideas.Personal superpowers can significantly impact leadership effectiveness.Customer feedback is crucial for product development.Time manipulation could help in project management.Comfort in one's own skin leads to better public speaking.Multitasking is a valuable skill in leadership roles.Energy and attitude of leaders influence team dynamics.Empathy is essential for understanding team members.Effective communication is key to successful relationships.Chapters00:00 Welcome Back and Introduction to Superpowers03:01 The Impact of Vulnerability in Public Speaking06:31 Exploring Community Superpowers08:19 Personal Superpowers: Listening and Happiness11:09 The Power of Perspective and Leadership14:41 Community Insights: Future Vision and Feedback17:47 Time Travel: The Ultimate Undo Button20:48 Juggling Tasks and Leadership Challenges24:59 The Weather of Leadership: Energy and Communication28:39 Superpowers in Tech and Leadership30:58 The Importance of Empathy32:39 Navigating Communication Challenges35:58 The Value of Difficult Conversations38:40 Understanding Cybersecurity Mindsets41:50 Community Building and Connections46:55 The Dangers of Instant Solutions50:44 Knowledge Transfer and Learning55:07 Leveraging Community Superpowers58:10 End
SummaryIn this episode of Quality Talks, Stu Day discusses the art of storytelling and its significance in conveying quality within teams and leadership. He emphasises the need for relatable communication and shares various techniques, including analogies, visuals, and interactive storytelling methods like using Lego. The conversation highlights the importance of empathy and creativity in making quality concepts accessible and engaging for diverse audiences.TakeawaysStorytelling is essential for effective communication.Relatable stories help convey complex ideas.Empathy is crucial in understanding your audience.Using analogies can bridge gaps in understanding.Visual aids enhance storytelling effectiveness.Interactive methods engage teams in learning.Quality is subjective and context-dependent.Lego can be a powerful storytelling tool.Creativity fosters better engagement in discussions.Storytelling should be fun and experimental.Chapters00:00 The Importance of Storytelling in Quality02:59 Making Quality Relatable Through Empathy05:49 Using Analogies and Visuals to Explain Quality09:10 Interactive Storytelling with Lego11:59 Creative Approaches to Quality Education14:48 The Role of Games in Team Collaboration17:45 Balancing Speed and Quality in Software Development21:08 The Need for Context in Communication23:54 Practicing Storytelling for Better Engagement30:01 End
SummaryIn this episode, Stu Day discusses the challenges of performance management within organisations, particularly focusing on the concept of Bonus Driven Development (BDD), and the negative impact of individual performance metrics on team collaboration and quality culture. Stu advocates for aligning performance goals with a quality vision and fostering a collaborative environment where everyone is responsible for quality outcomes.The conversation explores the importance of shifting from individual accountability to team accountability, using analogies from the NFL to illustrate the necessity of every team member contributing to collective success. TakeawaysPerformance management often creates challenges within organisations.Bonus Driven Development can lead to unhealthy competition.Individual performance metrics disrupt team collaboration.Shifting focus to team accountability enhances quality culture.Everyone in a team must contribute to collective success.Aligning goals with the quality vision is crucial.Collaboration should be prioritised over individual achievements.Consistency in performance management across teams is essential.Setting community-focused goals can enhance team dynamics.Quality is a holistic responsibility shared by all team members.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Performance Management Challenges03:06 Understanding Bonus Driven Development06:27 The Impact of Individual Performance Metrics09:23 Shifting Focus to Team Accountability12:17 Aligning Goals for Quality15:14 Creating a Collaborative Culture18:13 The Role of Community in Quality21:06 Ensuring Consistency Across Teams24:29 Conclusion and Call to Action31:43 Close
SummaryIn this keynote talk from the National Software Testing Conference 2025, Stu Day explores the critical theme of self-care in leadership, emphasising the importance of emotional awareness, the distinction between self-care and self-indulgence, and the need for leaders to model healthy behaviours. It discusses creating supportive environments, implementing micro-self-care behaviours, and the significance of vulnerability in leadership. The dialogue encourages leaders to prioritise their well-being and foster a culture of support within their teams.Takeaways1. Self-care is essential for effective leadership.2. Emotional awareness helps in managing triggers and responses.3. Leaders must model self-care behaviours for their teams.4. Self-care should be a daily practice, not a one-time event.5. Vulnerability can enhance communication and trust in teams.6. Creating supportive environments is crucial for mental health.7. behaviours can lead to significant improvements in well-being.8. Regular check-ins among peers can foster a supportive culture.9. Self-care is about long-term health, not just immediate gratification.10. Time management and boundaries are key to maintaining self-care.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Self-Care in Leadership03:54 The Cost of Neglecting Self-Care09:53 Self-Indulgence vs. Self-Care13:59 Modelling Self-Care as Leaders17:57 Building a Supportive Culture19:48 Micro-Self-Care Behaviours27:10 Conclusion and Key Takeaways29:56 Q&A - Emotional Awareness and Self-Care Challenges32:53 Q&A - Leadership and Culture in Mental Health35:57 Q&A - Key Takeaways from Mental Health Training38:58 Q&A - The Importance of Self-Care Days39:57 Breath & Thank you
SummaryIn this episode of the Quality Talks podcast, hosts Stu Day and Eamon Droko reflect on their experiences at the National Software Testing Conference. They discuss various talks and workshops, highlighting key insights on software testing, diversity in the industry, and the evolving role of testers in the face of new technologies like AI. The conversation emphasizes the importance of adaptability, communication, and the need for a diverse workforce to drive innovation in software development.LinksSimon Prior Website: https://leadtestinclude.com/TakeawaysThe importance of taking notes during conferences.Diversity in teams fuels innovation and creativity.Testing practices should focus on quality, not just the illusion of it.The role of testers is evolving with technology.Communication and language are key in quality assurance.Frameworks and models can guide effective testing practices.It's essential to adapt to different contexts in testing.Empathy and critical thinking are vital skills for testers.The significance of storytelling in conveying testing outcomes.Conferences provide valuable networking and learning opportunities.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Conference Overview07:43 Reflections on Keynote Speakers14:51 Workshops and Their Impact21:38 The Importance of Language in Quality Assurance28:45 The Role of Storytelling in Quality Assurance33:03 Diversity in Software Development35:58 Final Thoughts and Future Directions38:19 Leadership and Vulnerability44:02 Innovative Approaches to Mobile Advertising48:48 The Modern Tester: Evolving Roles and Skills54:38 From Performance Metrics to Purposeful Testing59:52 Adapting to AI: The Future of Testing01:01:49 Testing Beyond the Browser: Unique Challenges01:07:33 Reflections on the Conference and Closing Thoughts01:09:58 Close
SummaryIn this episode, Quality Talks & The QA Hype Show come together for a special collaboration. Host Stu Day & Gary Shannon, welcome Rosie Sherry, CEO and Founder of Ministry of Testing to talk about all things TestBash.Together they discuss the upcoming TestBash conference in October sharing personal stories about how Test Bash has impacted their careers and lives in different ways.The conversations touches on the continued evolution of TestBash over more than 10 years emphasising the importance of community, learning, and engagement whilst introducing new initiatives, and the fun, gamified elements that make the event one of a kind.The hosts end by sharing their reasons to encourage listeners to attend and experience the vibrant atmosphere and valuable connections that Test Bash provides.TakeawaysTest Bash is not just a conference; it's a community.The event fosters personal and professional growth.Engagement and interaction are key components of TestBash.Quality engineering is a central theme of the upcoming conference.The community aspect of TestBash sets it apart from other conferences.Leadership initiatives are being introduced to support industry leaders.Gamification elements will enhance the attendee experience.Networking opportunities abound at Test Bash, making it easy to connect with others.The atmosphere at Test Bash is electric and welcoming.Attendees leave Test Bash feeling inspired and connected.Chapters00:00 - Introduction to TestBash and Community Engagement02:35 - The Evolution of TestBash: From Concept to Community05:26 - The Unique Atmosphere of TestBash08:22 - Building a Year-Round Community11:12 - Leadership Initiatives and Future Directions27:57 - Quality Mindset in Product and Engineering29:31 - Excitement for TestBash31:29 - Engaging with the Community33:08 - The Role of Sponsors35:16 - Innovative Swag and Gamification37:59 - Creating Lasting Memories40:08 - Why Attend Test Bash?44:01 - Closing Statements from Gary, Stu and Rosie52:00 - We Out!!
SummaryIn this episode of Quality Talks, Stu Day discusses the essential tips for new leaders, particularly in the quality space. He emphasizes the importance of shifting one's mindset when transitioning into leadership, building strong relationships based on trust, collaborating on strategy development, investing in people, and prioritising self-care. These insights are drawn from his extensive experience in leadership roles and aim to provide guidance for both new and seasoned leaders.TakeawaysTransitioning into leadership requires a mindset shift.Building relationships is crucial for trust and team dynamics.Collaborative strategy development enhances buy-in and effectiveness.Investing in people is the foundation of successful leadership.Self-care is essential for maintaining leadership effectiveness.Understanding individual team members' needs fosters a supportive environment.Creating opportunities for others is a key leadership responsibility.Leadership can be lonely; building alliances is important.Inclusivity in strategy development leads to better outcomes.Reflection and self-awareness are vital for personal growth in leadership.Chapters00:00 - Introduction and Context03:47 - Shifting the Mindset08:05 - Building Relationships as a Leader12:23 - Co-create the vision and strategy18:17 - Investing in People25:25 - Self-Care for Leaders32:19 - End
In this episode of Quality Talks, host Stu Day engages with Ayesha Saeed, a senior accessibility specialist and test lead, to discuss the importance of accessibility in software development. They explore Ayesha's journey into accessibility, the challenges of promoting it within teams, and the significance of empathy in understanding user experiences. The conversation also covers practical strategies for integrating accessibility into development processes, training teams, and measuring the impact of accessibility initiatives. Ayesha emphasises the need for incremental changes and community engagement, encouraging listeners to start small and build their knowledge over time.Links and Learning Resources:Connect with Ayesha - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayesha-saeed-946821155Get to know Ayesha - https://www.solirius.com/post/meet-the-team-ayesha-saeedArticle: https://www.solirius.com/post/unlocking-the-web-start-your-journey-into-digital-accessibilityChampions of Accessibility Network: https://www.linkedin.com/groups/12499821TakeawaysAccessibility is a broad topic that impacts everyone.Empathy is crucial in understanding user experiences.Automated testing only catches a fraction of accessibility issues.Training teams on accessibility requires tailored approaches.Building a culture of accessibility is essential for success.Start small and gradually increase your knowledge of accessibility.Community engagement can enhance understanding and advocacy for accessibility.Accessibility should be integrated into all stages of development.Measuring the impact of accessibility training is challenging but necessary.You don't have to be an expert to advocate for accessibility.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Accessibility in Tech01:48 Ayesha Saeed's Journey in Accessibility13:01 Understanding Accessibility Beyond Tech16:25 The Importance of Empathy in Accessibility18:54 Engaging Teams Early in Accessibility29:51 Diverse Testing Approaches for Accessibility32:32 Understanding User Testing and Accessibility35:18 Common Accessibility Issues in Web Design40:06 Prioritising Accessibility Issues44:50 Educating Teams on Accessibility50:53 Measuring the Impact of Accessibility Training55:49 Future Trends in Accessibility Testing
SummaryIn this episode of Quality Talks, host Stu Day interviews Nesha Mistry, a senior recruiter with over six years of experience.They discuss the challenges recruiters face, including managing high volumes of applications and delivering feedback to candidates. Nesha shares insights on how candidates can stand out in their applications, the importance of personality in interviews, and the need for empathy in the recruitment process. The conversation emphasises the human side of recruitment and the importance of networking and authenticity.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Recruitment Insights02:34 The Recruiter's Perspective06:57 Navigating Candidate Emotions10:34 Providing Constructive Feedback13:59 Standing Out in Applications18:19 The Screening Process23:45 Creating a Positive Interview Experience27:07 Final Thoughts on Recruitment30:15 Connecting with Nesha30:44 CloseConnect with Nesha:LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/nesha-mistry-95889a125Instagram - nesha_canvascreationsTakeawaysNesha Mistry has over six years of recruitment experience.Recruiters often deal with hundreds of applications for a few roles.Providing feedback to candidates is a challenging but necessary part of recruitment.Unconscious bias can affect hiring decisions and needs to be addressed.Candidates should tailor their CVs to the specific role and industry.Showing personality in a CV can help candidates stand out.Creating a comfortable interview environment is crucial for candidate performance.The ideal interview process should be concise and engaging.Candidates should research the company before interviews.Networking is essential for job seekers.
SummaryIn this live episode celebrating the first anniversary of the Quality Talks podcast, hosts Stu and Chris reflect on their journey over the past year, share memorable moments, and engage with their live audience. They welcome special guest Vernon Richards, discuss future plans for live events, and highlight favourite episodes and guests, further reflections on their journey of building a podcast and community around quality discussions. They explore the challenges of engaging with their audience, the importance of creating a platform for sharing experiences, and the evolving expectations in quality roles. The conversation also touches on the significance of allyship and support within the industry, as well as celebrating their one-year anniversary of podcasting.Throughout this episode the conversation is filled with humour, insights, and a sense of community as they celebrate their achievements and look forward to what’s nextChapters00:00 Celebrating One Year of Quality Talks04:42 Special Guest Introduction: Vernon10:15 Reflections on the Podcast Journey15:52 Memorable Moments and Audience Engagement24:43 Engaging with YouTube Shorts26:46 This or That: Fun Debates35:43 Building a Community Around the Podcast49:54 The Grief of Change53:01 Navigating Change in the Industry54:44 The Lone Tester Experience58:59 Building Allyship in Quality01:02:56 Evolving Expectations in Quality Roles01:06:32 Finding Community and Support01:11:51 Celebrating Milestones and Looking Ahead01:34:47 WE OUT!!
SummaryIn this episode of Quality Talks Bitesize, host Stu Day welcomes Dalbir Sehmbi, a seasoned professional in software testing, who shares his journey through job hunting and the strategies he employed to secure a new role. Dalbir discusses the importance of tracking job applications, building relationships with recruiters, and the lessons learned from various interview experiences. He emphasises the significance of networking and community engagement, offering valuable tips for job seekers navigating the challenging job market.Useful Links:Follow Dalbir on LinkedInDalbir's articles: My Job Hunt – A Game of Rejections, Rewrites & Resilience & Why AI will not replace Software TestersJoin Ministry of TestingChapters00:00 Introductions04:26 Dalbir's Job Hunt Experience09:59 Data-Driven Job Applications15:58 Building Relationships with Recruiters21:57 Interview Preparation and Lessons Learned27:57 Final Tips for Job Seekers33:12 EndTakeawaysDalbir has nearly 20 years of experience in software testing.He applied for over 150 jobs during his job hunt.Tracking applications helped him stay organised and focused.He experienced a high rate of being ghosted by recruiters.Building rapport with recruiters can lead to better opportunities.Dalbir learned to customise his CV for each application.Networking can uncover hidden job opportunities.Celebrating small wins is crucial during job hunting.Engaging with the community can lead to unexpected opportunities.Dalbir emphasises the importance of giving back to others.
SummaryIn this episode of Quality Talks Bitesize, hosts Stu and Chris share their top tips for interviewers, focusing on enhancing the candidate experience. They discuss the importance of preparation, humanising the interview process, ensuring diversity in interview panels, effective time management, and being present in both body and mind.Their conversation emphasises creating a welcoming atmosphere for candidates and the significance of providing constructive feedback. To conclude the episode they even share a bonus tip that may be a surprise.......but would could it be?Chapters00:00 - Introduction to Interview Tips01:46 - Tip 5: Do Your Prep Work04:37 - Tip 4: Humanise the Process07:51 - Tip 3: Diversity in Interview Panels13:00 - Tip 2: Time Management in Interviews21:23 - Tip 1: Be Present in the Moment26:10 - Bonus Tip: Make It Fun30:27 EndTakeawaysDo your prep work to understand the candidate better.Humanise the interview process to reduce stress.Diversity in the interview panel helps challenge biases.Time management is crucial for a smooth interview.Be present in body and mind during the interview.Make the interview process fun and engaging.Allow candidates to ask questions throughout the interview.Provide constructive feedback promptly after the interview.Create a welcoming atmosphere to empower candidates.Use active listening to understand candidates better.
SummaryIn this inaugural Bite Size episode of the Quality Talks podcast, host Stu Day and guest Eamon Droko discuss the nuances of job interviews, focusing on what constitutes good and bad experiences, from a candidates perspectiveEamon shares his insights from his journey in quality assurance, emphasising the importance of job fit, the challenges of poorly placed technical tasks in interviews, and the value of openness and honesty during the interview process. They also explore effective preparation strategies and the need for interviewers to respect candidates' time and experiences. Giving them the time and space to showcase their true selves.TakeawaysA good interview leaves you feeling positive, regardless of the outcome.Bad interviews often lack a platform for candidates to showcase their skills.Automation should not overshadow other essential QA skills in interviews.Candidates' time should be respected during the interview process.The best interviews prioritize people fit before technical assessments.Openness and honesty can enhance the interview experience.Interviewers should understand the QA role to assess candidates effectively.Preparation is key; research the company and its products thoroughly.Using AI can aid in interview preparation and understanding job challenges.Interviews should feel like a conversation, not an interrogation.Chapters00:00 Introduction to BiteSize Series01:21 Eamon's Background and Experience02:26 Good vs. Bad Interviews05:12 The Role of Automation in Interviews07:12 The Importance of Job Fit10:08 Technical Tasks and Candidate Time12:10 Explaining Your Thought Process14:41 What Good Interviews Look Like18:49 The Value of Openness in Interviews19:33 Challenges with Interviewers' Understanding of QA22:39 Preparing for Interviews29:52 Final Tips for Interview Success31:35 End
In this episode of the Quality Talks podcast, hosts Chris Henderson and Stu Day explore the dynamics of interviews, emphasising the importance of a two-way relationship between candidates and employers. They discuss community engagement, share personal experiences, and highlight the significance of creating a positive interview environment. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences and the importance of communication throughout the interview process.The conversation also touches on technical interviews, handling anxiety, and the need for honesty in the hiring process. Show Links:1. Instagram page: quality_talks_podcast2. Culture Corner Podcast with Chris: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3XdYF5Rsyyd6pCSehUXJFJ?si=ghhZHZJDRXWUY7NvREVITg3. https://nationalsoftwaretestingconference.co.uk/4. https://www.ministryoftesting.com/events/testbash-brighton-20255. Our website: https://qualitytalks.co.uk/Chapters:00:00 Introduction to The Perfect Pair03:36 Community Growth and Engagement08:03 Upcoming Events and Conferences10:45 Multi-Generational Teams Discussion12:51 London Meetup and Community Involvement16:04 The Perfect Pair: Interview Dynamics20:22 Understanding the Interview Process29:01 What Makes a Good Interview?36:33 Creating a Comfortable Interview Environment42:38 Exploring Interview Styles and Formats50:51 What Makes a Bad Interview?59:49 The Importance of Communication in the Interview Process01:10:01 Community Insights on Interview Experiences01:22:45 EndTakeaways:Interviews should be a two-way street, allowing both parties to assess fit.Creating a positive interview experience is crucial for candidates.Technical interviews should focus on problem-solving and communication skills.Honesty on CVs is essential; candidates should not feel pressured to exaggerate.Open communication during the interview process is vital for both candidates and interviewers.Candidates should feel empowered to withdraw from a process that doesn't feel right.Interviewers should engage actively and respectfully with candidates.Feedback from candidates can help improve the interview process.Community insights can provide valuable perspectives on the hiring experience.Practicing interview techniques can enhance the overall experience for both parties.
SummaryIn this episode of Quality Talks, hosts Stu Day and Chris Henderson welcome Christine Pinto, co-founder of Epic Test Quest. Christine shares her journey from a tech career to politics and back, emphasising the importance of quality in software testing. The conversation explores the challenges faced by testers, the role of AI in improving testing processes, and the significance of community engagement. Christine advocates for a quality mindset in tech and the need for fun and gamification in testing. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to join the Epic Test Quest community and contribute to the development of a tool that aims to enhance the testing experience.Show Links:1. Epic Test Quest Website: https://www.epictestquest.com/2. Epic Test Quest Slack Community: https://join.slack.com/t/etqcommunity/shared_invite/zt-31z6yv89i-62eixB9hqdpO0tXBhyQvxQ3. Epic Test Quest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/epictestquest4. Christine's Motivational Song: https://youtu.be/1SXQfd8f-o0?si=ea41f2gZ1tivMZyFChapters00:00 Introduction and Excitement for the Podcast02:14 Christine Pinto's Background and Journey04:51 Transition from Politics to Tech08:25 Lessons Learned from Politics14:06 The Birth of Epic Test Quest22:14 Prototyping and Community Engagement26:19 Quality Mindset in Entrepreneurship30:09 Bridging Communication Gaps in Testing33:01 The Importance of Quality Mindset35:17 Leveraging Community for Product Development38:39 Transforming Quality into a Collaborative Mindset42:12 Gamification and Fun in Quality Assurance46:18 Visualizing Quality through Engagement55:45 Emotional Connections in Testing and Development56:36 Starting the Conversation: Understanding Pain Points59:54 Creating Accessible Tools for Testers01:01:40 Leveraging AI for Quality Assurance01:05:56 The Importance of Quality in Software Development01:10:39 Emotional Impact of Quality Assurance01:16:47 Building a Community for Feedback and Growth01:21:38 EndTakeawaysChristine Pinto emphasizes the importance of community in software testing.The transition from politics to tech provided valuable networking and communication skills.Quality is a team responsibility and should be prioritized in tech.Gamification can make testing more engaging and fun.AI tools need to be trained on quality data to be effective.Emotional connections with customers are crucial for understanding quality impact.The importance of communication in tech is often overlooked.Test case creation is a common pain point for many testers.Christine aims to create a tool that is accessible for all testers.Feedback from the community is essential for the success of Epic Test Quest.