Wanna work in the gaming industry?

As promised: If you're interested in working in the gaming industry, I just might have some tips for you!

At PAX East, I attended the So You Want to Get into the Game Industry panel. The biggest thing they pushed was networking. In particular (if you don't already have some contacts) interning can be a great option. If you do land an intern job, work hard. It sounds like common sense to me, but supposedly a lot of people get in and then think "I won't work hard until I get paid", and of course they end up not getting the job at all.

If you're going after a job, start working at it before you apply. Build some game mods, or maintain a blog. (^_^) Try to attend unofficial meetings / groups of industry insiders. Apparently in the urban hubs, there are plenty of these around and newcomers are welcome.

Include a cover-letter with your application. A well written cover-letter. Mention any people you know; name-drop. If you met the person at a panel years before, mention it. Also talk about games that you love (show your passionate side) and in particular games from the company you're applying for.

When going for an interview, don't overdress. Apparently (and I'd double check but this is seriously what they told us) the industry frowns upon people who dress super business-like for their interview. Something business casual is preferred.

Make sure you do your homework before the interview. When a company asks if you've played their games, don't be in a position where you have to say no or lie. Play some of their games & know what the company is about!

Once you have the job, don't act entitled. Work your butt off. Meet deadlines. And don't think that it isn't a real job just because its in the gaming industry; maintain an appropriate level of professionalism. Also, don't be discouraged by setbacks. Layoffs happen a lot in this industry, and the industry is relatively small. Do not burn bridges, or take a layoff personally.

And that, ladies and gentlemen, is all that I'm willing to share. (Hey, its a competitive industry after all; gotta keep an edge.)

Good luck in your futures, and hopefully we'll meet up to work on Fallout 4 or Civilization 6 together!