Join Anna Moss, a veteran headhunter with a passion for gaming, as she shares secrets for job hunting in the gaming industry. She highlights the crucial differences between internal and external recruiters and offers strategies for effective communication. Anna also discusses current job market trends, common application mistakes, and the power of networking. Want to stand out? She provides tailored CV tips and emphasizes the importance of experiences over formal education, all infused with her authentic insights from the industry.
Navigating the competitive gaming job market requires adaptability and proactive strategies, especially for junior candidates facing experienced applicants.
Effective communication with both internal and external recruiters is crucial, emphasizing transparency and professionalism throughout the job search process.
Building a strong professional network and maintaining an updated online presence are essential components for standing out in the gaming industry.
Deep dives
Career Path in Gaming
A passion for video games can lead to diverse career opportunities within the industry. The speaker shares their transition from recruitment in life sciences to gaming recruitment, driven by a lifelong interest in games since childhood. They emphasize the importance of ethical recruiting practices, highlighting their commitment to transparency and integrity when representing candidates. This ethical approach not only fosters trust with clients but also ensures the best fit for both candidates and studios.
Current Job Market Dynamics
The job market in the gaming industry is currently challenging, especially following recent mass layoffs. Many positions attract hundreds of applicants, leading to fierce competition even for entry-level roles. As a result, junior candidates often find themselves competing against more experienced applicants, which makes it crucial to adapt strategies for job searching. While the market is beginning to stabilize, there is an ongoing need for junior positions to be filled while navigating a landscape that has drastically changed post-pandemic.
Proactive Job Search Techniques
Candidates are encouraged to adopt a proactive approach in their job search, akin to how recruiters operate. This includes networking effectively and building relationships within the industry to stand out from the crowd. Engaging in personal branding, updating online portfolios, and maintaining a presence on platforms like LinkedIn are vital steps. Additionally, potential applicants should actively seek out opportunities by attending industry events, and participating in relevant online communities.
The Role of AI in Recruitment
AI has the potential to streamline recruitment processes, though its impact varies by industry. In gaming, while certain tools can aid in automating tasks, AI is not yet advanced enough to replicate the nuanced evaluations of artist portfolios. Candidates can leverage AI for enhancing application materials, but ultimately, meaningful connections and personal interactions remain paramount in the recruitment landscape. Understanding the limitations and opportunities presented by technology is essential for both candidates and recruiters.
Common Mistakes in the Application Process
Job applicants often make several common mistakes in their pursuit of roles within the gaming industry. Errors in resumes, like failing to update templates or submitting applications for outdated job postings, can diminish their chances. Additionally, candidates frequently take rejection personally, overlooking the broader context of a competitive market. Keeping meticulous records of applications and fostering an open mindset towards feedback are key practices that can improve job search outcomes.
Join us as we sit down with Anna Moss, a seasoned headhunter at ii Connection, to discuss job hunting in the gaming industry and how to effectively communicate with recruiters in 2024. With a background in the life sciences sector and a deep passion for games, Anna brings a unique perspective to recruiting in the gamedev world.
Topics covered in this episode include the key differences between internal recruitment teams and external agency recruiters from a candidate's perspective, and how candidates should approach and communicate with both types of recruiters effectively. Anna shares insights into current trends and the state of the industry job market, highlighting common mistakes candidates make when applying for jobs and offering tips and tricks for standing out in a competitive market.
Additionally, Anna emphasizes the importance of networking in securing a job in the industry, drawing from her experience helping individuals find their dream jobs and supporting studios in building strong teams.