When applying for a job there are a number of things you can do to improve your chances. There are also a number of things you can do to decrease your chances so here is some basic advice. Mostly it is just about applying some common sense, there is no special trick.
The first thing you will need to do when looking for a job is to make sure your CV is up to date and reads well. If you go with an agency they will often help you to maximise your CV and make sure it will create the right impression. If you are unsure ask them for an example of a good CV and copy the format.
Always use a spellchecker, spelling mistakes in CV´s create a bad impression.
Maximise your relevant experience, for example if you worked in restaurants before you worked in games you can list those jobs but don´t go into detail about them because they aren´t relevant to the job you are applying for. For your relevant experience try to detail out all of the duties you performed. Anything that is relevant to the post you are applying for should be included whether it was done as part of your previous job or in your spare time.
Always include a list of the applications you are familiar with but be careful while it may be tempting to bulk up your experience there is little point in claiming to be an expert with an application if you aren´t, you will soon be found out.
Always include a cover letter which is tailored to the job you are applying for, sometimes you will want to do the same with your CV. For example if you are applying to a developer who specialises in racing games and you have some experience in that area, make that part of your CV prominent.
Do not do mass mail outs, if you send a mass email prospective employers may be put off, just email them all seperately even if it is exactly the same email.
It can be worth showing a little knowledge about your prospective employer in the email and explaining why you want to work with them but don´t go overboard.
It is well worth having a website which shows off your portfolio, this is especially important for artists and makes it easy for employers to have a look at your skills. Include the web address in your CV and cover letter.
Websites are very easy to make nowadays so this doesn´t need to cost you much. If you don´t want to make it yourself there are plenty of web developers out there who will for a small fee. In fact we provide this service and if you´d like a quote email the site at info@freelancegamedeveloper.com
Many job sites will allow you to upload your CV or create a profile for free which you can then point prospective employers at.
One site I would especially recommend is Linked In, you can create a profile here, you can request recommendations from people you previously worked with and you can use it to network and introduce yourself to prospective employers and agencies.
Networking is vitally important, every industry is prone to nepotism and if you know people who are working somewhere you want to get in then ask them to recommend you.
Websites like Linked In can help with this. If you are able to it is also worth going to conferences and chatting to people who work in places you´d like to gain employment.
You can also use social networking sites like Myspace and Facebook to introduce yourself to people working in the industry and ask them for advice, just avoid pestering them.
When you do secure an interview make sure you prepare for it. There are standard interview questions you can prepare yourself for, such as what are your strengths and weaknesses.
Try to learn a bit about the company you are applying to, check out their website and do a search for news stories about them. If you haven´t it is a good idea to at least get their most recent game and play it a little before your interview so you can talk about it. Whatever you do don´t criticise their game, you can make legitimate points as part of conversation or if you are asked directly but be careful not to be too negative even if you hated it, remember the people interviewing you probably worked long and hard on it.
The games industry is usually pretty casual especially when it comes to dress and it is the only place I´ve seen people laughed at for wearing a suit to their interview. Of course there are positions where you may be expected to dress up. If you are worried then ask before you go in.
Always take along a few extra CV´s to your interview so you can hand them out if needed. Also make sure you have your portfolio on a disc or paper so it can be reviewed.
After applying for a job if you don´t hear anything don´t worry, most developers will take a while to get back to you. If you don´t hear anything for two weeks it may be worth sending a follow up email as many developers will not take the time to tell you that you have been unsuccessful.
If you have had an interview it is always worth asking when you will be likely to hear whether you got the job or not, just don´t be surprised if they can´t answer. Again you don´t want to be too pushy so wait a while before you follow up and only do it once.
If you are unsuccessful it is perfectly fine to ask for feedback on why, but again only ask once and don´t be surprised if you don´t get anything useful back just move on to the next opportunity. There are loads of reasons that developers may not hire you so don´t let it discourage you, unless you have years of excellent experience it is quite possible that it will take you a few interviews to get a job.
Try to stay positive, especially during your interview because any negativity will come across. If you suffer from nerves practice your interview technique before you go in. Take water with you or ask for a glass when you arrive and just take a sip if you get the dreaded dry mouth.
For the most part developers are friendly people so don´t worry and good luck.