Product testing is an increasingly popular way for people to try new products, provide feedback, and in many cases, earn money or receive free items. But what does a day in the life of a product tester actually look like? While product testers enjoy the perks of working from home, flexible hours, and interacting with various products, the job also involves organization, time management, and a keen attention to detail.
In this article, we will take a deep dive into the daily activities of a product tester, including how they receive products, the testing process, completing feedback forms, managing deadlines, and what it takes to excel in this line of work. Whether you’re interested in becoming a product tester or curious about what it entails, this detailed guide will give you a comprehensive look into a typical day.
The first task most product testers tackle in the morning is checking emails, messages, and notifications from product testing platforms or brands they work with. Many platforms, such as Toluna, Pinecone Research, and BzzAgent, notify testers via email when they are selected for a new test or have upcoming feedback due.
Product testers also monitor product testing portals for new opportunities. Early birds often have an advantage, as many testing jobs are filled on a first-come, first-served basis.
- Example: A tester might log into their Pinecone Research account and find an invitation to test a new kitchen gadget. They quickly accept the opportunity before moving on to their next task.
Once emails and notifications are checked, the next step is to review upcoming assignments and deadlines. Many testers juggle multiple products at once, and it’s important to stay on top of each project’s requirements.
- Task Example: A tester might have three products to review—one that requires written feedback due in two days, another that requires a video review by the end of the week, and one survey that needs to be completed by the end of the day.
To manage this workload, most testers create a daily schedule or use tools like calendars and task management apps (such as Google Calendar or Trello) to stay organized. This ensures that they don’t miss any deadlines, which could jeopardize future testing opportunities.
After the morning organizational tasks are complete, the most exciting part of the day arrives—receiving new products. Testers often receive packages from delivery services, which may include anything from cosmetics and tech gadgets to food samples or household goods.
The unboxing experience is not only enjoyable but also part of the testing process. Testers need to pay attention to the packaging, presentation, and any included instructions. Many companies ask testers to review the packaging as well as the product, as it’s a key element of the consumer experience.
- Example: A tester unboxes a new fitness tracker. They examine the packaging, noting how easy it was to open, how the product is displayed, and whether the instructions are clear and straightforward.
Once the product is unboxed, it’s time for the actual testing process. Depending on the type of product, this can vary greatly:
- Tech Gadgets: A product tester might spend the day setting up and using a new smart home device, testing its various features, assessing the ease of installation, and troubleshooting any issues.
- Beauty Products: If the product is a skincare item, the tester might use it daily for several weeks and document their skin's reaction to it over time.
- Food and Beverages: Testers often have to prepare and taste different food items, providing feedback on flavor, packaging, and ease of preparation.
During this stage, testers take detailed notes, paying attention to factors such as usability, durability, functionality, and overall experience.
- Task Example: While testing a new blender, a product tester might use it to blend various ingredients, noting how efficiently it works, how easy it is to clean, and whether it meets the manufacturer’s claims.
While testing, product testers document their experience, often taking photos or videos to provide the brand with visual evidence of their feedback. Visual documentation is especially important for products like clothing, beauty items, or tech gadgets, as it shows the product in use.
- Example: A tester might take photos of their morning smoothie made with the new blender, then record a video demonstration of the blender's speed settings and cleanup process.
After testing the product, it’s time to fill out feedback forms. These forms can range from quick surveys to detailed questionnaires, depending on the company’s needs. Feedback forms typically ask testers to rate the product’s performance on different factors and provide written responses to open-ended questions about their experience.
For some platforms like UserTesting, feedback may involve providing commentary while using an app or website, highlighting any issues or positive features in real-time.
- Task Example: A tester is asked to review a new pair of headphones. The feedback form might include questions such as:
- How was the sound quality?
- Was the product comfortable to wear for long periods?
- Did you encounter any issues with connectivity?
In some cases, brands request more in-depth written reviews, especially for high-end products like electronics or luxury goods. Testers are expected to provide thoughtful and honest insights, covering all aspects of the product, from aesthetics to functionality.
Some testers also write public reviews on websites like Amazon or review platforms such as Influenster. This requires extra attention to detail since these reviews are visible to potential buyers.
- Example: A tester might write a 500-word review of a new smartwatch, discussing everything from design and comfort to battery life and app integration.
Many product testing jobs, especially for beauty and lifestyle products, require testers to share their experiences on social media. Testers often post photos, videos, or written reviews on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, or YouTube, tagging the brand and using relevant hashtags.
Some platforms, like BzzAgent and Influenster, rely heavily on social media shares as part of the feedback process. Testers are encouraged to create engaging content that helps spread the word about the product.
- Task Example: A tester posts a photo of a new skincare product on Instagram, sharing their experience with the product after a week of use and including before-and-after photos.
Product testing can sometimes feel like an individual activity, but many testers are part of larger online communities where they share tips, reviews, and insights. Platforms like Toluna and CrowdTap allow users to engage with each other, discuss their favorite products, and exchange advice.
Testers often spend part of their day reading other users’ reviews, participating in discussions, and building a reputation within these communities. Active participation can increase the chances of being selected for more prestigious testing opportunities.
At the end of the day, product testers revisit their schedules to make sure they’ve completed all tasks for the day and are on track for upcoming deadlines.
Many testers also use the evening to plan for the next day, especially if they’re juggling multiple product tests. This might involve making a to-do list, checking for new testing opportunities, or setting reminders to post reviews or submit feedback forms.
- Task Example: A tester schedules time for the following day to test a new piece of workout equipment and finalize their written feedback for a smartphone test.
Some products, like skincare items or fitness equipment, require long-term testing over days, weeks, or even months. Before wrapping up the day, testers using these products might record progress notes and observations.
- Example: A tester using a new moisturizer records how their skin feels after a week of use, noting any changes in texture or hydration, and compares the results to earlier days.
A day in the life of a product tester is a mix of exciting product trials, detailed feedback, and organized planning. From unboxing new gadgets to providing honest reviews, product testers play a crucial role in helping brands develop and refine their products. While the job offers flexibility, it also requires commitment to meeting deadlines, delivering quality feedback, and staying organized.
For those interested in product testing, understanding the daily routine will help you navigate the demands of the job and set yourself up for success. By staying engaged with brands and product testing communities, you can enjoy the perks of receiving free products, earning extra income, and having a say in the development of new products.
With dedication and attention to detail, product testers not only get to try out the latest goods but also shape the future of consumer products.
