The Power of Storytelling as a Tester

13th January 2023
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Gareth Waterhouse

Principal Test Engineer

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Talk Description

As a tester, we talk to a lot of people, we tell people a lot of things, but they don't always listen. 

This talk will look at how powerful stories can be when trying to get our point across, whether that be raising bugs, talking about challenges we're facing or even talking about the testing that we're doing.  It will call on times when I've done this well, and when I've done this not so well and the effects of that. 

It will talk about how to structure stories, how to get people to buy into the story, how to tell a story short and succinct (think an elevator pitch) and how non-verbal communication can help amplify the story's reach and influence. 

What you’ll learn

By the end of this talk, you'll be able to:

  • An understanding of story fundamentals - How telling good stories can help you influence people and get what you want
  • How to apply that to testing and everyday life - In terms of telling people about bugs, or about challenges you may be facing to help them understand
  • How to make sure you get the important points across in the story - We've all been there when someone tells a story that goes on, and on, and on, and on... anyway, you get the point, we'll look at how to break down a story to get the key points across in the story
  • How to amplify your story telling through your non verbal communication - When telling a story, only so much is said through what is actually said, you can achieve so much more from a story when you factor in other aspects of communication
Gareth Waterhouse's profile'

Gareth Waterhouse

Principal Test Engineer

Seasoned Tester with over a decade of experience, father of two and Sunderland fan (please don't hold that against me). Always looking at ways to develop others. Regularly blog about things that I think may be of interest.
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  • communication
  • influence
  • testbash-uk