Job Applications & Interviews

Where to find Job Postings

Job Aggregators

Hitmarker GameJobs.co

Company Website

The most straight-forward method of applying is to apply to job opening that is listed on a company's career page. If you are interested at working at a particular studio, but do not see a job opening for a position you would be interested in, then contact an individual at the studio or apply to the general job application. Making a personal connection with a recruiter or developer through LinkedIn may increase your chances of your application getting reviewed.

Talk to recruiters at conventions

Studios will actively be recruiting at conventions and conferences, such as GDC and devcom. You will want to come prepared and put your best foot forward. Have digital or physical copies of your resume and portfolio with you.

Your network

Not all jobs are posted on a company website. If you have an established network, contact your colleagues in the industry. People are always willing to help others in the Games Industry find a job, especially during times of mass layoffs at a studio. Don't be afraid to reach out to friends and associates to find your next opportunity.

Should I Apply?

Apply if you meet 50% of the listed requirements

Don't be afraid if you do not meet every single requirement in the description of a job listing. The list of requirements in a job listing is a recruiter's "Unicorn List", all the things the perfect candidate would have. But if you meet at least 50% of the listed requirements on the job description and you feel confident in your abilities, go ahead and apply. Companies still expect to train and onboard new staff, so itis more important that an applicant has the ability to learn.

Keep in Mind that Game Studios Want Experience

Making games is a risky business.

The development team’s goal is to make a game that is fun and enjoyable. The business team’s goal is to reach as many customers as possible and to turn a profit from game sales, downloadable content, merchandising, etc. Studios need to minimize risk while maximizing productivity and potential revenue.

Therefore, game studios are primarily interested in hiring talented professionals to make a commercial product. Studios expect you to be specialized and already have the skills necessary to do the work that needs to be done. They will not hire someone that cannot prove they are competent for a role.

Competition is High for Internships and Entry-Level Jobs

A majority of the vacancies in industry are for mid-level and senior-level positions. There are far fewer openings for internships and junior-level positions. As more and more people are studying game development through higher education or as a hobby, competition for junior roles is higher than ever. For example, the acceptance rate for an internship at Blizzard Entertainment is less than 1%. So, you have to make sure your application makes a strong impression on the recruiter or hiring manager.

Entry Level Roles that require little to no Experience

If you don't feel confident in other disciplines, you can enter the games industry by applying for the following roles:

• Retail associate
• QA tester
• Customer service
• IT helpdesk support

Keep in mind, this doesn't necessarily increase your odds at landing a job in another discipline. Although, some of the skills you learn in these positions may be transferable to other roles.

Making Your Application Stand Out by Tailoring your Resume, Cover Letter, and Portfolio Samples

Recruiters are looking for the right person for the job and who puts in the effort to make a personal connection. Make sure your resume, cover letter, and portfolio samples line up with the requirements and expectations of a job posting. Describe your abilities, talk about your personal experiences, and showcase how your skills would be a good fit for the job. Portray yourself as the solution to their problem.

Interviews

Interviews should be a conversation between you and the interviewers. Make sure to ask questions to show you are interested in learning more about the job, the company, and your potential coworkers.

Common Questions you will have to answer:

• What drew you to our company?
• Why are you interested in this particular position?
• Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Recommended Questions to Ask:

• What do you expect me to accomplish in the first 60 to 90 days?
• What can you tell me about exciting new projects coming up in the company?
• In order of priority, what are the 3 characteristics that your top performers exhibit
• What are a few things that really drive results for the department or company?
• What is the top three goals of the team this year and how does this role contribute towards achieving those goals?
• What's the work culture like?
• What do employees do in their spare time? (Don't be afraid to have a bit of casual conversation with the interviewer)

Resources