Game Testing and How to Do It?

Everyone wants to become a game tester. Here are some tips to get you started.

First of all recognize that you are already a video game tester. Every time you try a new game and tell someone what you like or dislike about it, you are a video game tester. The trick is to find a way to do it for pay.

Plan your attack

Applying for a video game testing job is like applying for any other job. First you need to prepare a resume. On your resume, list your education and your job experience. Emphasize all experience and awards you have done related to computers and gaming. Think of your resume as your advertisement. You want to call attention to your skills.

Potential employers want to know that you can communicate well, so it's a good idea to write some video game critiques. State clearly what you like or dislike about specific games. Clearly list ways the game can be improved. Suggest sequels. Show the critique to someone else to see if they understand your comments and consider them to be professional.

Because video game testing is so high tech, it pays to join online video gaming communities and social networking sites. These will help you meet others in the industry that may be able to hook you up with a job. Develop a website and a blog to discuss video games.

Seek your prey

Now, it's time to contact the video game companies. Find out the names and titles of those people in charge of human resources and also product testing. Contact them to find out if there are any current opportunities. If none are available, ask if you can send a resume and a sample of your work anyway, in case something should come up. Be sure to get the correct spelling of their names and their correct titles to show you pay attention to details.

When you send your resume and your sample critiques, include a cover letter explaining why you think your skills are a good fit for that company. Emphasize that you are dependable, honest, a team player etc. State that you will contact them in a week or so to answer any questions they may have.

Be a Pro

In all these communications, be polite and professional. While people outside the industry perceive video gamers as "slackers", you are applying for a real job and competing against many others. You want to stand out by being the most professional.

While you are waiting to hear from potential employers, read every piece of information you can get on computers and gaming. Learn to spot the newest trends. Find out which companies are buying other companies. Continue to search online for potential openings.

A week or so after you send a resume to someone, call them as you promised you would. Ask whether they received your resume and ask if there are any questions about your application.

If you are fortunate enough to arrange an interview for a job, follow standard job interviewing practices: Show up on time and neatly dressed. Shake hands cordially with the interviewer and anyone to whom you are introduced. Answer all questions honestly but positively. Do not criticize former employers. Send a thank-you note, either by surface mail or by email.

As with any job for which there is a lot of competition, it will take time to get a job as a video game tester. However, once your foot is in the door, you will be on your way to a promising career.