A Comprehensive Guide to Landing Your First Job in Game Development

Pursuing a career in game development is a dream shared by many worldwide. This field combines art and science, making it a highly sought-after profession. At EGX 2023, Andy Driver, talent acquisition manager at XR Games, shared valuable advice on how to secure your first job in the industry. Driver emphasized that getting hired is challenging and having a strong skillset is only half the battle. It's essential to have interests outside of game development studies, as these can be crucial in landing your first job. Applying for a job in the games industry is a multi-stage process. First, you need to find a role you want to apply for, which can be found on job boards, company websites, social media, and LinkedIn. Once you've applied, you may be invited for an interview or a test, depending on the position. Driver noted that the application process can be lengthy and may involve multiple stages. He stressed that it's vital to be organized, take feedback on board, and learn from your experiences throughout the process. A key aspect of any job application is your CV and portfolio. Your CV should showcase your experience, education, and personality, making you stand out as a candidate. When it comes to portfolios, they are essential for entry-level and junior roles. A great portfolio should have a working URL, be easily accessible, and have a simple layout. It's also important to focus on quality over quantity and showcase your skills and creativity. For art roles, using ArtStation can streamline the process, and for design roles, using templated platforms like Wix or WordPress can save time. Programmers should provide visual examples of their work, such as completed games that can be downloaded and played. Driver recommended hosting code samples on GitHub and providing clear, concise descriptions of your projects. Once you've impressed a recruiter with your skills and experience, you'll likely be invited for an interview. At this stage, it's crucial to demonstrate your ability to communicate and work with others. Driver emphasized that game development is a team sport, and being able to fit in with the team is vital. The GamesIndustry.biz Academy has guides on how to succeed in job interviews and what to avoid. To land a position, you need to have a combination of skills, experience, and a strong portfolio. No single aspect of the application process can guarantee you a job. Driver shared the 'jobs funnel' concept, which illustrates the hiring process. At the start, there may be hundreds of applicants, but recruiters need to narrow down the list to find the most relevant candidates. The final stage of the recruitment process is determining which candidate is the best fit for the team. Driver stressed that becoming a 'real person' and being able to communicate effectively are crucial in securing a job. By following these tips and being persistent, you can increase your chances of landing your first job in the game development industry.