How to Get a job in the games industry

How to Get a job in the games industry by Michael Cheary The next generation of console wars is undoubtedly underway.‘The Big Three’ (Microsoft, Sony, Nintendo) continually strive for the next enhancement and technological breakthrough. Gamers can now experience the year’s top titles in 3D, HD, using motion sensors and more. The visuals are enhanced; the audio is enhanced; the game play is enhanced.To put it simply, they’re video games,  Jim. But not as we know them.But, just as with the latest generation of consoles, work does not stop as soon as they hit the high-street shelves. A new generation of gamers are needed to continue the development. That’s where you come in…But what happens if you’re interested in the video games industry, but have no idea how to break in to it? If you’re more comfortable with your controller in your hand (stop sniggering at the back), here are a few tips on how to get a job in the games industry….To quote a famous Brooklyn plumber, lets-a-goMarket ResearchAlready a level 80 Mage? If so, you can probably move on to step two.It goes without saying that to be successful in this industry, you need to like computer games. Actually, you need to love computer games. You need to eat, breathe and sleep computer games (N.B. this is meant purely metaphorically video game disks DO NOT taste good).But, beyond being a mere fan of the latest Fifa instalment, you will need to have an understanding of computer games, and how they’re played. Know what new games are out there, what the most popular and innovative games of all time are, and why. The different styles of gameplay, and what their advantages and/or limitations are.Make SomethingThis is, without doubt, the single most important piece of advice you need to know.Unfortunately, passion alone will not pave the way for a successful career in the games industry. There are literally thousands of people in the same position, and your job is to set yourself apart. Unfortunately, luck alone will not be enou gh.Instead, start developing mini-games, games and trailers of your own. There are a whole host of free sites out there to help you learn and develop your skills in different programs, from iPhone apps and Flash games through to concept art and even creating additional levels  (mods)  for popular games (famous examples include Left 4 Dead, Half-Life, Civilisation and Doom).Start small, and be realistic. But actually having something to show to potential recruiters could be the difference between getting the job and missing out.Bonus points if your game has an Easter egg waiting to be revealed when you enter The Konami Code (if we have to tell you what this is, you may be looking in the wrong industry).Get qualifiedIf you’re serious about getting into the industry and progressing your career quickly, getting an industry recognised qualification will be a must.Even if you’re already familiar with some of the professional tools used, there may be a host of useful software that you aren’t aware of, and a professional qualification could undoubtedly help boost your career prospectsPhotoshop, 3ds Max, Maya, Java and C++ are all useful qualifications, depending on your desired career path (e.g. 3D Modelling Artist, Developer, Programmer etc.).Browse coursesNetwork ConnectionThis is useful for any jobseeker, but especially so when it comes to this particular industry. Techies and gamers tend to be quite a close-knit breed, and are especially vocal when it comes to social media. In short, geeks stick together.If you don’t currently know anyone else into games development other than a few friends playing Fallout 3 on X-Box Live, don’t panic. There are a range of events, fairs and conventions you can visit to help starting building your networks.Knowing the right people and making the right connections should never be underestimated, whether you’ve been in the industry for years, or you’re just starting out.Start at Level 1Finally, if all else fails, don’ t be afraid to start out at the bottom. Before free software and shiny courses became readily available, the old-fashioned route was to work your way up the career ladder by taking an entry-level position. And the entry-position for gaming was Games Tester.That’s right. Going against everything our mother ever told us, you can actually be paid to play computer games all day. If you spend most of your time doing that anyway, it may be the perfect career move.However, before setting off on your future career, spare a thought for the practicalities. Becoming a games tester isn’t all about glitz and glamour. It will require you to play the same level, sometimes for days at a time, in an effort to find every possible bug before it can go live (and by live, we mean viral).If you still think you can struggle through the latest Street Fighter reboot (CVXI, Ryu’s Revenge, if you’re counting) after playing it for the five-hundreth consecutive time, then start applying now.Have any tip s of your own? Let us know belowFind a job What Where Search JobsSign up for more Career AdviceSign up for moreCareer Advice Please enter a valid email addressmessage hereBy clicking Submit you agree to the terms and conditions applicable to our service and acknowledge that your personal data will be used in accordance with our privacy policy and you will receive emails and communications about jobs and career related topics. Getting Started What job suits me?

Men Are More Interested in Performance than Brand Image - Personal Branding Blog - Stand Out In Your Career

Men Are More Interested in Performance than Brand Image - Personal Branding Blog - Stand Out In Your Career Today, I spoke with Mark Tungate, who is a UK branding expert and author.   In this interview he reveals very interesting research on how to market to men, as opposed to women.   If youre a man reading this, some things may surprise you.   If youre a woman, you will probably just laugh and agree with what Mark has to say. Mark, how do you differentiate (besides the obvious) from the male and female brands when it comes to buying behavior? Most men still dislike shopping, especially for clothes and skincare products. They do not consider it a form of entertainment. Men tend to be practical shoppers: they need a new raincoat, they go out and buy a new raincoat â€" and usually from the same place they got the last one. Say what you like about male consumers, but they are extremely loyal. If you keep on delivering quality, they’ll keep returning. In fact, men are less interested in brand image than in performance. This is obviously true of cars and technology. But even when they buy an item of clothing, they want to know about the practical details: where was it made, how long will it last, is there enough room for their mobile phone, does it provide the right level of quality for the price…? In terms of grooming products, they want to know about how they work from a scientific point of view. They like detail. With other products, men are interested in qualities like authenticity and consistency. Their main aim in life is to be respected â€" and above all, not to be seen buying anything that might make them look gullible or foolish. Brands know this and tend to tailor their communications accordingly. Can you give us some background on the historical ideals of masculinity and how we can market to this group today? Whoa, that’s a huge question â€" in fact, I managed to fill an entire book with the answer! But here’s something to think about: historical ideals of masculinity have always been different depending on what part of the world you come from. For instance, it’s become clear to me that the European male has always been much more concerned with his appearance â€" and unashamed to be so â€" than the American male. The concept of the ‘dandy’ â€" that fragrant peacock with a fancy waistcoat and great hair â€" is very European. Think of the great dandies like Beau Brummell, Oscar Wilde and even David Bowie. Playing with concepts of gender and sexuality comes much more easily to us. I would argue that the American male image is more rugged. Maybe it’s the pioneering, frontier spirit aesthetic. Look at Hollywood movies and you’re not going to find many dandies. But there are plenty of cowboys, soldiers, sportsmen and cops. Cross over to the Middle and Far East and you’ll find different archetypes again. Bodily cleanliness and purity become highly important: the rituals of bathing and grooming are linked to social status, cultural sophistication or spiritual purity. Back here in the west, marketers have realized that men are beginning to reject the relatively recent idea that a concern for appearance is somehow suspect. The dandy is returning, in a more moderate guise. The ‘metrosexual’ was the first, rather obvious iteration of this development â€" clearly a marketing creation, but a step in the right direction. Now we have Jude Law in the Dunhill ads and Daniel Craig as a tough yet emotional Bond. By the way, it’s no coincidence that he wears Tom Ford â€" another modern dandy. Ive always thought that its smarter to market to females instead of males because they have the decision power.   Is this true or false? It’s a tactic that many brands have adopted. Market research shows that our wives and girlfriends choose our fragrance and very often our clothes. Or at least, that they have the final say. But several new trends are now at work. First of all, men are staying single for longer, so men with a high disposable income don’t always have a long-term partner to make their decisions for them. And there are men who’ve realised that it’s OK to take matters into their own hands. This is partly due to the explosion of male interest media: there are far more men’s magazines than there were 30 years ago. For example, Men’s Health is one of the most popular magazines in the world. Men have discovered that competing is not only about what you know, but how you look. So they are shopping for fashion more frequently and buying more products to keep their skin looking younger. They are also much more educated about health and diet, partly because they do not want to repeat the mistakes of their parents, who have often suffered because of smoking and a poor diet. Can you describe the male consumer with 3-5 attributes? Cautious, self-conscious, analytical, demanding and loyal. What are your tips for marketing products to the male brand?   Well, I don’t have space to go into too many details, but here are a few teasers: Focus on functionality Confer status Ensure that quality exceeds expectations Service should be impeccable Don’t be afraid of humor A great soundtrack always helps Mark Tungate is a writer and lecturer on international marketing and branding.   He is the author of several books, including the bestselling Fashion Brands: Branding Style from Armani to Zara (Kogan Page), now in its second hardback edition. His other books include Branded Male: Marketing to Men and Adland: A History of Advertising.   Mark lectures on advertising and luxury branding and has developed a reputation for entertaining yet informative talks. He is Paris correspondent of the trends forecasting service WGSN and writes for publications in both the UK and France. He is also the co-host of a weekly French TV show about advertising creativity.

Reasons to Give for Leaving a Job

Reasons to Give for Leaving a Job It’s the moment in an interview that many job seekers fear. The interviewer asks, “Why are you leaving your current employer?”The decision to leave a job isn’t an easy one. Your motivations and reasons to give for leaving a job can be complicated.So, it makes sense that explaining why you are leaving your current employer, or the real reason for leaving your last job, can be difficult and full of landmines.Present Yourself in the Best LightWhether your termination was involuntary or if you simply decided it is time for something new, here’s a quick way to approach your answer. The reason behind leaving your last job should present yourself in the best light. The best answer for leaving a job gives employers the information they need to hear.First, think of your answer as having two parts:One that is past facing One that is future facingThe first part is the one that is expressly asked,“Why are you leaving your current employer?” This initial part of your answer is where you briefly explain your motivations for the job change. This will give them a glimpse into your past work experience, why you left the last job(s), and the past experience you are moving away from.Example of Past Facing ReasonsHere are some reasons to give for leaving a job in the past:“Company restructuring eliminated the business line my previous job supported.” “I currently work at a small XYZ company where I am the only person in my function.”If you keep this part of your answer succinct and stick to the facts, no matter how difficult your situation, you will keep yourself from sounding too negative.The number one rule in answering this question, “Why are you leaving your current employer?” is to not speak poorly of your former or current employer. It will reflect poorly on you. The best answer for leaving a job does not leave possible employers worrying that you’ll be talking about them that way sometime in the near future. They do not want to be bad-mouthed as you explain your reason for leaving your last job to future employers.Example of Future-Facing ReasonsNext, pivot to the second half of your answer, the future-facing piece. As one of your reasons to give for leaving a job, tell the employer about your future goals. Explain what you are looking for and what you want to have in your next role.The key to this part of your answer is to make it specific to the role and company with which you are interviewing. Let this part speak directly to why you want to work in this role. Show your strong motivation to work in this job:“Moving forward, I’m looking to expand my role doing XYZ for a company that values ABC and has a strong presence in the local community.” “I want to find a role that will allow me to work alongside other professionals in my field and help me progress in my chosen profession and to grow within a larger organization.”Highlight the Reasons You Want to Work With ThemMake sure the reasons you give for leaving a jo b align with their organization’s size, structure, mission, or product. The point is when you are answering, “Why are you leaving your current employer?” you want to emphasize why you are a great fit throughout your interview. Include displaying how highly motivated you are to work with them.In many cases, the deciding factor for an employer is who seemed to want the job more. So, it’s important that you highlight your motivation effectively. The best answer for leaving a job shows your employers that you desire to work for their company.

Why Vacation is Important for Employees - Personal Branding Blog - Stand Out In Your Career

Why Vacation is Important for Employees - Personal Branding Blog - Stand Out In Your Career Vacation is a must for everybody but unfortunately, many employees in the US do not use their vacation time. They fear that they will fall behind work or lose the chance of getting a promotion, if they take time off from work. However, believing you are the only person to do your job is not realistic. Ok, maybe your coworkers cannot do all parts of your job but at least handle some parts until you return back. Therefore, don’t hesitate to use your vacation days because taking a vacation has many benefits. Below you can see some of them. Increases Productivity and Creativity: Taking time off from work for vacation increases productivity because you lower your stress level and prevent burnout. Upon returning from vacation, you feel mentally refreshed and relaxed. Therefore, your tasks don’t seem so difficult anymore and in fact, you can put more emphasis on them since your mind is clear now. Also, after you come back from vacation and go to work, you realize that you have a new outlook in life. Stepping outside of your regular routine and going to different places will help you see things from a different perspective and this increases your creativity. Makes You Happier and Healthier: When you book a vacation, you find something worth waiting for and start counting your days. This feeling keeps you more energetic and boosts your mood. As a result, you become a happier person. Moreover, giving your brain and body a break by going to vacation can help lower your anxiety, heart rate and blood pressure. This consequently lowers the risk of a heart disease caused by stress. Improves Relationships: When you take time off and go to vacation, you spend more time with your loved ones and spending quality time with them increases your bonding as a family. You collect memories that you won’t forget for the rest of your life and keep talking about these memories throughout the years. Review Your Goals: During vacation, you can find some alone time to review your goals and decide where your career is going. Maybe a small change like going to vacation is not enough and you need a bigger change in your life. You can only understand this, if you take some time off to step back and move away from your daily routine. Realize Your Dream Trip: You only live once and there are so many places to explore in the world. Don’t worry; nothing will change if you live the office for a few days or weeks. Your coworkers can survive without you for a while so start planning because theres no better time than now to make  your dream trip happen.

#8 Career Expert Series Rachel Ritlop from The Confused Millennial

#8 â€" Career Expert Series Rachel Ritlop from The Confused Millennial The Career Insider Podcast Apple Podcasts | Android | Email | Google Podcasts | Stitcher | TuneIn | RSSFor This Episode of The CareerMetis Podcast â€" we will be hearing from Rachel Ritlop from The Confused Millennial.This interview is part of the “Career Expert Series“.evalDuring our interview- Rachel Ritlop shares her experience on how she went from her corporate job to a Lifestyle Blog 1.Why you must tap into your existing Network?2.How ATS 7.How you can turn your side hustle into a full-time business.LinksTo learn more about Rachel Ritlop visit her website. You can also connect with her on Social Media on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube.Intro Music provided courtesy of Accelerated Ideas (www.accelerated-ideas.com). Soundtrack â€" Siren KickbackEnding Music provided courtesy of Accelerated Ideas (www.accelerated-ideas.com). Soundtrack â€" No Need to Rush