How to Turn Your Love of Gaming into a Career in Video Game Retail
Gaming is a major hobby for a lot of people, and if you are a gamer, careers that allow you to use the knowledge and expertise you have built up can be a good choice. While some people who are passionate about gaming aspire to work in the game development industry itself, this isn’t for everyone, and if you aren’t inspired by that kind of career, then working for a video game retail company may be something you could consider.
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Working in Store
There are lots of different jobs you can do for a gaming retailer, but if you don’t live near to the corporate offices of any of the big companies, then chances are the easiest place to start is by working in one of their shops. You can, for example, find out how to make a GameStop application here.
Most malls and towns have one or more video game shops, so you probably won’t have to commute far, and will work normal shop opening hours – which will include weekends.
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Benefits of In-Store Video Game Retail Jobs
The great part about this kind of job if you are a gamer is that you get to spend your time helping other people find what they are looking for, recommending games or accessories, and imparting your own knowledge and experience to people who need advice about the games to buy. You will also find that the other people working alongside you will likely be passionate gamers too, so you can have some great discussions when the store is quiet!
You will also probably get a staff discount to make your own gaming a little cheaper!
Starting out in a retail position will also open up a career path into branch or regional management, and you may also see corporate positions you are interested in advertised.
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Other Roles with Game Retailers
While it is the people in the shops who get to spend the most time talking about gaming, there are lots of other positions that these companies need to operate. Roles supporting their online ordering processes, customer service, and logistics are all important. There are also more business focused roles in strategy that could be suited to someone with a management background who wants to work in this industry.
You’ll also find all of the usual roles any other company has in legal, accounting, HR and admin, to name but a few, so if you have experience in any corporate field, moving into video game retail can allow you to use those skills while doing something you love.
Then there are roles in the distribution part of the company, which sees to the delivery of the products to the many stores. There is a wide array of roles in this area, from working in the warehouses and driving, through to managing receivership.
If video games are your passion, working in the retail sector could be a great way to feel like a part of the industry and meet like-minded people!
Author: Carol Trehearn