So You're A New Tester......

TIPS FOR THE NEW N.T.

Congratulations! You’ve just qualified to test motor vehicles, a very responsible addition to your C.V.
You have the power to pass or fail; a significant responsibility, so it is important that you make the right decisions. A right ‘call’ could save lives, a wrong one could jeopardise your career and have big implications on your boss’s business so you need to make sure your judgement is sound. Still glad you applied? Good, ‘cause here’s a few tips from those that have been testing a while that may help you avoid the many pit-falls awaiting you; don’t panic it can be quite satisfying.
Here goes:-

It’ is a continually evolving test so endeavour to keep up-to-date with the changes, there is a plethora of info out there designed to keep you up to speed. This means more than reading the special notices!
Stuff like ‘Matters of Testing’ magazine carry a lot of extra info. Get familiar with surfing thro’ VOSAs website, sign up for ‘Alerts’ & be sure you can navigate your way around the manual, guide, ‘F5’ and much more……. Just look at the ‘links in the margins either side of this post!

Stick to a routine when testing, the minute you vary, you are more likely to make a mistake or miss something.

Don’t hesitate to ask a (testing) colleague for a second opinion if you are not sure.

Ask your boss to pay for you to attend the seminars, (he can get the cost back on tax!)
You can ask VOSA or any of the guys there any questions you like.

Treat every car like it’s an incognito test!

Assume nothing. The minute you get blasé about testing is the minute you will come un-stuck.

Ask for a pay rise along with your new responsibilities; you’re worth it!

Join the forum, you have mates here, many of whom can help you with your queries.

(and here follows tips from some of the other forum users ……………….. )