How to Become a Senior Software Developer/Scrum Master?
Steps to Become a Scrum Master
Scrum masters oversee the scrum and development team, acting as a buffer between the team and the product owner. With resources like the Agile Manifesto, you can familiarize yourself with the overall Scrum framework and the principles of Agile. Try to find a mentor in the field who can explain what the day in the life of a scrum master is like and how they apply those principles in their work. Remember that successful scrum masters have excellent communication, time management, and organization skills. After you commit to honing those skills, you're ready to take the following steps.Choose a scrum master certification.
Most companies that implement the Scrum framework require potential scrum master hires to have scrum master certification. Certification proves that you are proficient in the field and familiar with the principles of Agile and the Scrum framework. Industry-recognized certifications include Scrum.org's Professional Scrum Master I (PSM I), ScrumAlliance's Certified ScrumMaster (CSM), and Scrum Inc's Scrum Master certification. These programs are ideal for anyone taking their first steps on the path to becoming a scrum master.
Complete your scrum master certification coursework.
Once you choose your scrum master certification, you'll need to complete the required coursework. While each certifying organization has its own requirements for how many hours you have to complete, the coursework doesn't generally vary from one organization to the next. You can expect instruction on delivering value as a scrum master, the complexity of product delivery, and the meaning of Scrum values, among other topics.
What skills do you need to be a Scrum Master?
- Agile Software Development
- Agile Scrum Master
- Agile Scrum
- Capacity Management
- Retrospectives
- Agile Methodologies
- Backlog
- Frameworks
Sit for the scrum master certification exam.
After you complete the necessary coursework, you can sit for the scrum master certification exam. If you sit for the PSM I exam, you must get an 85% score or higher to pass. The CSM exam requires you to answer at least 37 questions correctly out of 50. While you can take either exam as many times as necessary to pass, keep in mind that the certifying organization may charge you additional fees.
Apply for a scrum internship.
Many companies offer scrum internships that allow newly certified scrum masters to gain some practical experience. Typically, scrum interns will shadow senior team members, assist with planning, and help build product backlogs. In some cases, an internship can turn into a permanent position. Even if that's not the case, an internship is an excellent way to expand your professional network.
Apply for scrum master positions.
After earning your certification and gaining experience as an intern, it's time to find the scrum master job that's right for you. Before you start applying for available positions, make sure your resume is up-to-date. Remember, it's a competitive field, so don't get discouraged if you don't get hired right away.
Senior Software Developer/Scrum Master Career Path
Senior Scrum Master
Scrum Master IV
Principal Scrum Master
Total Pay Trajectory
Senior Software Developer/Scrum Master Career Path
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