Interviewing for a job in the video game industry is the same as any other interview. That means your employer isn’t going to hire you unless you feel, look, and show confidence. You do that by knowing beforehand what your employers will be expecting.
Knowledge of yourself
Aside from your resume and perhaps a phone call or two, the company you’re shooting for doesn’t know that much about you. It’ll be your job to sell yourself. That means knowing your strengths and weaknesses. Take time in picking specific examples of your performances at previous jobs, community service, and/or school activities, etc. Be prepared for recounting those experiences. Employers also love well-rounded people, so be sure to highlight hobbies you love other than gaming. Basically, what you say about yourself will give them an idea of your personality and what you strive for.
Knowledge of your employer
You’re trying to work at their company, so it’s disrespect to have no knowledge of what they do. Research them, usually by checking out their website. Learn about their goals and what they’ve done.
Confidence
You need to show them confidence if you want a chance at being hired. It’s all about body language. You do that by always talking with a clear voice, sitting with your back straight, and avoiding any of those nervous twitches you might have. Be aware of what the employer might see in you when they conduct their interview, and you’ll get a good idea on how you should act.
Attire
They say appropriate attire is best, and for the most part, that’s true, but in many industries, especially video games, hopeful candidates are clueless. That being said, you’re not dressing for the job, you’re dressing for the interview, so you need to look serious if you want to be taken seriously. Unless the people you’re interviewing for specifically say things like casual attire when setting up the appointment, you’ll need to dress business. For men, the minimum will be dress shirt, slacks, and dress shoes. A tie depends on the job position, but you can’t go wrong with one. That’s just the minimum. In most cases, if you can wear a suit, then you should wear a suit. For women, keep it very low key. No super high heels, strong perfume, or funky hairdo. In most cases, you cannot go wrong with suits, but depending on companies, business casual, which is a collared shit and dress pants or skirt, would be appropriate as well.
Questions
Here’s a list of some of the most asked questions by employers. Take time in figuring out how you will answer these questions.
Why should we hire you?
What specific skills and abilities would you bring to our organization?
What would be your greatest strengths? Weaknesses?
Some questions aren’t even questions, but orders.
Describe any leadership experience you have had.
What would your coworkers say to describe you.
Give an example of a time when you had to go above and beyond the call of duty in order to get a job done.
Give an example of a time when you had to make an important decision that placed you in a difficult position, where your job could be at risk.
Most of the time, they will also ask you if you have any questions. Having some prepared shows you are really interested in the job, so think up a few. And keep in mind, asking any questions involving your salary is one of the biggest mistakes you can do.
That’s it for the tips. Good luck out there. Just remember, it’s all about confidence.
