The video game industry has exploded in recent years, but it isnot growing fast enough to keep up with the number of peopleseeking employment in it. Many of the people who grew up playingmediocre video games are now itching to find jobs in which they canuse today’s superior technology to create games packed with superbfeatures, animation and graphics.

However fierce the competition may be, it is still possible tofind employment in the gamedesign industry. Here are a few tips that can help give you anedge over other applicants.

Have a plan

Don’t just say, “I want to make video games.” Know exactly whatyou want to do. Do you want work in programming? Would you rathercreate concept art? Once you’ve researched available jobs in theindustry, pursue a gameproduction degree that will help you achieve your goal. Afocused degree from a reputable gameproduction program will give you a significant edge over thosewho just have a general design or programming degree.

Keep learning

One way to stand out in an interview is to know more about theindustry than other applicants. Play all types of games – not justyour favorites – and pay close attention to what makes each gamefun. Stay current with the latest gaming systems and trends byreading articles, joining associations or attending conferences. Ifyou’re able to talk intelligently with a recruiter about hiscompany’s history or latest game, you’ll have a leg up on thecompetition.

Location, location, location

The gaming industry is somewhat unique in that most of itscompanies are located around a few key metropolitan areas like LosAngeles or San Francisco. If you’re dedicated enough to move to acity that is home to a major developer, you’ll automaticallyimprove your chances of getting a job.

Start low

If you’re aiming for a job as a video game designer orprogrammer, you may want to consider starting as a video gametester. This is one of the easiest jobs to get in the industry andusually requires only a high school diploma. While the work canbecome tedious, it is the most common way to break into theindustry.

Work hard

The best way to stand apart from the crowd is plain old hardwork. When you’re looking for job openings, don’t just trollInternet job boards – visit companies’ websites and call theirrecruiters to find hidden jobs. If you get a job as a video gametester or intern, stand out by working extra hours and producingquality results. If you’re willing to outwork dozens of other jobcandidates, you’ll be rewarded with more job opportunities.

Information in this article was provided by the InternationalAcademy of Design and Technology – Detroit. Contact IADT – Detroittoday if you’re interested in developing marketable knowledge andcareer-relevant skills with an industry-current degree program.(IADT – Detroit does not guarantee employment or salary.)

Courtesy of ARAcontent