dfcto

THIS. Build a killer showreel. My studio is hiring a sound designer right now, and this is the #1 thing we look for. After that, be able to communicate clearly and not like a weirdo. For those interested in the job: https://dfcto.typeform.com/to/uquAgS

We do games & implement occasionally, but obviously not as much as a game studio. My opinion on the matter is - if you can't make something linear sound amazing, how can someone trust you to be able to make it sound amazing through middleware? Yes, middleware is absolutely important, but someone with an amazing reel, middleware knowledge (with proof) & communication skills is going to get the gig. I've met tons of people who say they know middleware inside and out who are unemployed, yet I rarely meet someone with an insane linear reel who's unemployed.

It's normal for writers or visual artists to move into full-on game creation and creative direction. Why does it seem to be so rare for sound people? What inspired you to step out of the sound designer's chair and into the writer/director role?

unfortunately not, we need someone internal :)

I've received thousands of resumes, so I can tell you it's not as competitive as you might think. Yes, there are a lot of people who "want" to be sound designers, but 95% of the resumes I get aren't even close to the expectations. If you're getting call backs, then you're definitely on the right track regarding the reel. The reality is that most reels are just awful. In my opinion, that's step number 1, but it sounds like you're past that. After you have a solid reel, make sure it's packaged in a good way... I always like to see someone's personal website with a real http address rather than something like WIX. It show attention to detail. Also, less is more in my opinion. I don't want to weed through a list of 100 pieces of gear you've been in the same room with. Also, please don't make it black with purple text and flames coming out of the screen. Audio people tend to have terrible visual taste ;) Keep it clean, short, sweet and to the point. Ways to prove middleware knowledge is the same as linear. Strip a game and re-impliment. I see this happen a lot with Braid and UDK, but go further than that. Everyone has those on their demos. I've also seen people create adaptive music reels with middleware. Be creative and make it a separate reel. Next up, be an incredible communicator both through email and in life. Finally, keep at it. There are so many things going on behind the scenes that are out of your control. Keep creating new things for your reel, keep applying and keep getting better. If you willing to make big moves or changes, something is going to eventually click.