In order for hiring managers to grab the attention of the small pool of gaming candidates with a niche skillset, they need to test out different and exciting ways of recruiting. Roles within the gaming industry can be very specific, making the candidate pool very small.
Unlike most industries, there are more open positions than the right candidates to fill them, which has caused serious competition within the gaming recruitment world. This article explores 7 tips for recruiting the best gaming candidates.
1. Take Interest in Candidates' Portfolios
When sourcing candidates, take the time to thoroughly explore their portfolio. By directly complementing a specific piece of their work, you are demonstrating your interest in them.
They will appreciate this, and will therefore be more likely to show interest in the position you reach out to them about.
2. There’s No One-Size-Fits-All
Your outreach should be crafted differently depending on which type of candidate you are on the hunt for. Artists usually respond best when you focus on artistic style, whilst designers respond better when talking about game design features.
On the other hand, engineers like to know more about the tech stack which the game would be using. Therefore, make sure you consider who you are reaching out to before deciding on your approach.
3. Have Knowledge of the Role You’re Recruiting For
Games are very specific when it comes to artistic style as well as genre. Understanding the game thoroughly will help you to understand the necessary skills needed for the role.
This shows that research is essential when hiring for the gaming industry.
4. Get Yourself Involved
By immersing yourself in the gaming world, and starting to play games yourself, you will gain a better understanding of gaming language and different gaming styles.
This will help you to see similarities between the project you are recruiting for and competitors' games.
5. Make Most of Internal Referrals
Being super small, the gaming industry has a useful word of mouth, whereby candidates know candidates, and employees know employees who could possibly be a good fit for the role. Make the most of this by chatting with your network.
Likewise, utilise LinkedIn by searching for connections within the industry.
6. Promote The Cultural Selling points
The gaming industry tends to come with a more laid-back approach to working hours, making it more fun day-to-day with the intense “crunch” period of overtime hours closer to release dates.
Being a competitive field, salary and location isn’t quite enough when it comes to the benefits of the role. Each studio tends to have a cultural selling point which can be utilised to attract candidates, so make the most of these selling points when recruiting.
7. Significance of Social Media
Be aware that gaming industry candidates can be picky and therefore do their own extensive research before considering a role. By having a strong social media presence that demonstrates a studio’s work culture and vibe, you are more likely to attract top candidates.
Especially for start-up companies, that don’t have any games released yet, it is important to put effort into the studio’s social media.