Hey everyone! I've been on the job hunt for about 2 years now since finishing my Associate degree in Computer Science, primarily as a programmer focusing on game development. I live in Florida, and while I have a few personal projects using Unreal Engine and Unity showcased on my portfolio, I haven't had much luck getting responses from employers.
I've started applying to all kinds of jobs that use the programming languages I know like C#, C++, and Typescript, but so far, it feels like I'm throwing my resume into a black hole. I've even participated in a game jam hosted by a recruiter, and our team won first place, but still no follow-up. I'm willing to relocate and have reached out to recruiters, but haven't seen results.
I got an interview once and did well technically, but they passed on me due to my lack of "large team experience" which I'm not sure how to gain if no one will hire me.
I'm looking for any advice or feedback on what I might be doing wrong with my resume, if there's a specific type of job I should focus on, or any job searching techniques I might be overlooking. I appreciate any help!
5 Answers
Remember that your experience in game development is valuable, but you also need to highlight why that makes you a good fit for other software roles. If you show that you can deliver working software, manage projects, or collaborate in teams, that will resonate with hiring managers.
Also, ensure your LinkedIn profile is updated and connect with professionals outside the gaming space—sometimes it’s just about getting the right eyeballs on your resume!
One thing that really helped me was tailoring my resume to match the job descriptions I was applying for. I always highlight the skills and experiences that align with what the employer is looking for, even if it means modifying my resume for each application. It's a bit of work, but it makes a huge difference.
Try creating different versions of your resume focused on specific roles. Every time I did this, I saw much better results in terms of responses!
I’ve tried that approach too, but maybe I’m missing the mark. I have several resumes named for each job I've applied to, but it’s tough to know how effective they are.
It sounds like your resume could use some work. Consider restructuring it to place your most impressive experiences at the top of each section. Use the STAR method to frame your projects and what you achieved with them, and avoid redundant sections. Also, get specific about your achievements—potential employers want measurable success!
If you’re applying for jobs in different industries, don’t just focus on game dev stuff. Try including projects that demonstrate your problem-solving skills or teamwork in a more general context. Further, adding things like open-source contributions or even taking freelance gigs can look great on your resume and show you’re proactive.
Networking in broader fields like healthcare or tech companies outside of gaming can also open doors you might not have considered.
Absolutely! I've seen folks land jobs in healthcare just because they learned to code for basic applications. Sometimes making a lateral move can lead to better opportunities.
It seems like your experience is heavily focused on game development, which can be a hurdle when applying for non-game jobs. Have you tried branching out and showcasing other skills? Maybe pick up web development or work on some apps? I personally found success by learning new skills beyond my original scope, which made me a more attractive candidate for various roles.
Exactly, getting more general programming experience can really help. I've noticed the job market for game dev is quite niche and can limit options. Just having diverse projects can catch a recruiter’s attention.
Definitely! Expanding your network into other areas can sometimes lead to unexpected opportunities. Don't hesitate to reach out to former classmates or colleagues too.