How to Score Your Dream Job in the Gaming Industry, part II - Networking

On my previous article we explored the jobs available and what skills are most in demand to succeed in the gaming industry. Now that you have clear the “what” you should aim for, it’s time to understand “how” you will get it. 

Million dollars question? How I can be hired for the role that I’m dreaming for?  You need preparation. Before starting randomly applying, you must build brick by brick the foundations of your professional development. In order words? You must focus on networking first. 

Building connections and relationships with other professionals in the industry can open doors to new opportunities, provide valuable insights, and help you grow your skills and knowledge.

Here are some reasons why networking is so important (not exclusively) in the gaming industry, and some tips on how you can make the most out of your networking efforts.

Career Opportunities 

One of the most significant benefits of networking in the gaming industry is the potential for career advancement. By building connections with other professionals in your field, you can learn about job openings, get referrals, and connect with decision-makers who can help you take the next step in your career.

Referred candidates are more likely to get an interview and receive an offer by approximately 50%. 

Access to Valuable Insights

Investing time in networking can also provide you with valuable insights and knowledge that you might not have access to otherwise. By connecting with others in your field, you can learn about emerging trends, new technologies, and best practices in game development, marketing, and design.

This can give you access to industry resources and tools that can help you improve your skills, knowledge and the odds of being noticed. For example, you might learn about new software programs, training courses, or conferences that can help you stay up to date with the latest industry developments.

Building up a Long-Term Strategy

Establishing successful relationships with other professionals is time consuming. Usually, it doesn’t show a return on investment of the time spent in the short run. But slowly your name will start to resonate in the heads of the people managers, getting to the point where recruiters will approach you based on your soft skills and commitment to join the industry (and they will know it because you spent time interacting with them). 

What do you think is better, spamming 100 applications praying for some miracles, or setting up the grounds for being noticed at first glance? Perhaps the first option, but the second one is definitely worth a shot, isn’t it?

Tips for Successful Networking in the Gaming Industry

Now that you understand the value of networking, how can you make the most of your efforts? Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Attend industry events:

Attend conferences and industry events to meet other professionals in your field. Don’t be afraid to introduce yourself and start a conversation; most of the people share your same passion!

2. Connect on gaming media:

The gaming community rises inside unusual media. While Linkedin is always good to go, consider exploring and approaching people on tailored platforms such as Discord or Reddit. Most likely you already have used them for playing, so why not try for professional goals? There are plenty of channels/subreddits created to speak about job and networking opportunities, especially for people with no previous experience in the industry.

3. Find your mentor:

Headhunter tip; pick a gaming company that you would like to work for, check their shipped games and look at the developers who realized them. A very useful website that you can use for this is mobygames. Once you know who you can learn from, you can approach the person asking for guidance and information. 

Networking is essential to success in every sector, including the gaming one, in every stage of your career and especially at the beginning. By building connections with other professionals, you can access new opportunities, gain valuable insights and knowledge, and collaborate on exciting new projects. To put it simple, I’m firmly believer of the motto “your network is your net worth”.

Start networking today and watch your career in the gaming industry take off!