Job Fair Preparation Tips

7 Questions To Ask When Networking (To Turn Strangers Into Referrals): 1. “What’s a skill or mindset shift that helped you the most in your career, but isn’t talked about enough?” People love to share wisdom that isn’t “common knowledge.”  This question opens the door for that and allows them to explore a number of different options. It will also lead to some great advice you can take action on. 2. "Who’s been a major influence in your career, and what’s the best lesson they taught you?" This question helps set a more personal tone for the conversation.  It allows your contact to tap into mentors they love who shared meaningful lessons. It will also tell you more about what they value when it comes to relationships and growth. 3. "What’s something exciting happening in your field or company that most people don’t know about yet?" This question positions them as an “insider.”  It gives them a chance to share knowledge that most people don’t have and they’ll feel like they’re in a unique position of authority. It also gives you more insight into industry trends! 4. "What’s a misconception people have about your role or industry?" People love to have the chance to set the record straight about their industry or their job. This questions gives them the chance to do that.  It also gives you more insight into what’s actually happening in these fields / at this company that you might not learn from some online searching. 5. "My current goal is to improve [Relevant Skill]. Would you recommend I do [Action A] or [Action B]?” This positions your contact as an expert, while making it easy for them to reply. It also opens the door for the next conversation.  When they give their answer? You can tell them you’ll do it and then follow up with them. Just make sure to follow through on that :) 6. "If you were in my shoes and looking for your next opportunity, how would you go about it?" Asking for a referral outright can feel pretty awkward. This question opens the door to that conversation without pressuring your contact to commit to anything. If they want to refer you? They’ll probably mention it. If not? You’ll still get advice you can act on. 7. "Based on our conversation, who are one or two people you’d recommend I connect with next?” This question creates a networking flywheel. If your contact shares a name, you can ask for an introduction. Now you can expand your network without needing to send cold messages! It’s one of the best tactics out there.

I was interviewing with 3x organizations about a potential opportunity One made me an offer - but I wasn't sure if it was my "top choice" Or if I was even going to get an #offer from the other companies There was a 5-day timeline to provide a response 😣 I'm not kidding when I tell you that trying to make this decision put me in the fetal position on my basement sofa What do I do? What if I accept it and then another (better) offer comes? What if I stall for the other companies and this offer goes away? What if I pick the wrong one? It sounds silly, but this decision completely locked me up #quinnsights What did I do? I called 3x mentors to discuss the situation and get their advice They advised that I call the other 2x recruiters and explain that I received an offer (give them the salary + bonus amounts) and let them tell you what they will do So I did!! The 2nd company said "we'll match it" but getting everything done will be tight - you may need to ask for another day or 2 to consider the pending offer The 3rd company said they couldn't get anything done (so I wasn't really a top candidate) #militarytransition I ended up taking the first offer because I felt the role gave me more room to grow in the directions I needed to Called the 2nd recruiter back and told her (so she didn't do all the work to get an offer together for me to reject it) She thanked me And a little over a year later I joined EY (the 2nd company) at a higher level because of the experience gained at the 1st one My takeaway? 1 - always have multiple irons in the fire (if the 3rd company was my top choice, I would have been screwed) 2 - communicate openly & honestly with recruiters (if you really are a top candidate, they will work with you) 3 - you never know where life will take you (had I made the recruiter do all that work and then rejected, I may not have had the same opportunity a year later) 4 - make sure you have mentors in your desired field that you can literally call and they will pick up or call you back shortly (I needed advice ASAP) Thoughts?

How to Evaluate a Job Offer or Multiple Job Offers? When you start looking for a job, you will end up in more than one offer and it leads to confuse which one to accept of which one to drop. A systematic approach can help you make a well-informed decision. The Evaluation Criteria 1. Salary and Benefits Consider the overall compensation package, including base salary, bonuses, healthcare, retirement plans, and other perks. Compare it to industry standards and your financial needs. 2. Company Culture Investigate the company’s values, work environment, and employee morale. A good fit with the company culture is essential for long-term job satisfaction. 3. Growth Opportunities Look for potential for promotions, professional development programs, and opportunities for career advancement. A company that invests in your growth is invaluable. 4. Work-Life Balance Assess the flexibility of work hours, availability of remote work options, and support for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. This is crucial for your overall well-being. 5. Job Responsibilities Ensure that the job duties are clear, manageable, and aligned with your skills and career aspirations. It’s important that you find the work both challenging and engaging. 6. Team Dynamics Evaluate the communication, collaboration, and relationships within the team. A supportive and cohesive team can significantly impact your job satisfaction. 7. Location and Commute Consider the convenience of the workplace location, transportation options, and daily commute time. A long or stressful commute can affect your quality of life. 8. Company Stability Assess the financial health, market position, and long-term viability of the company. A stable company provides job security and peace of mind. 9. Employee Reviews Look at feedback from current and former employees about their experiences at the company. Websites like Glassdoor and LinkedIn can provide valuable insights. 10. Legal Terms Review the employment contract carefully, paying attention to non-compete clauses, intellectual property agreements, and other legal obligations. It’s wise to consult with a legal professional if necessary. Making the Decision After completing the evaluation table, take a step back and review your ratings and comments. Discuss your findings with trusted friends, family, or mentors to gain additional perspectives. Remember, the best job offer isn’t always the one with the highest salary; it’s the one that aligns best with your personal and professional goals. Evaluating a job offer thoroughly ensures that you make a decision that supports your career trajectory and personal happiness. By using this comprehensive evaluation table, you can approach your decision-making process with confidence and clarity. Helping you : I have made this table, if you want this matrix just comment your email address to share with you. #joboffer #evaluation #career #success

Two questions I get all the time about games industry conversations Particularly from those who are early career or don't like networking People often ask me two things. (1) What are good questions to ask at the end of interviews? A great question shows curiosity and preparation, not something you could find on Google. Never ask a “desktop research” question, one that could be answered just by looking up the studio’s website or press release. Here are some thoughtful questions to make a good impression: • What are the biggest challenges or priorities for your team this year • How does the team define success beyond sales or reviews • What does a great first 90 days look like for someone new • How does your studio encourage creativity or experimentation • What qualities do your most successful team members share • How does the studio measure long-term player satisfaction • What is one thing you wish more people understood about your game development process • How do cross-team collaborations usually work here • How has your team evolved over time and what do you hope to improve next • What does growth or progression look like for someone in this role • What are you most proud of about the studio culture • How do you approach work-life balance or sustainability in development Each one invites a real conversation instead of a trivia check. That's all you want to do and you can come up with many more of your own. (2) What can I say when networking, especially if I’m nervous Networking doesn’t need to feel formal. In fact, it's better if it's not at all. You can be completely yourself. The best openers are friendly, curious, and down to earth. Try things like: • Hi, I really loved the art direction in your latest game, how did that visual style come about • I saw you worked on X, that must have been an amazing experience, what part did you enjoy most • I’m just trying to learn more about how people got started in games, how did you find your first break • I’ve been following your studio for a while, what’s something you’re excited about right now • I watched your talk or read your post, it really resonated with me because… • I’m working on my own small project and I’d love to hear how you think about early prototypes • What’s something about your role that people outside the industry might not realize • How do you like working in this city or region for games development • What kind of games inspire you lately • I’m new to the industry and just trying to meet others who love making games You don’t need to sound polished or rehearsed. Just sound like a person who genuinely wants to connect. The best questions and introductions come from curiosity, not a script. People remember kindness, warmth, and interest far more than perfect phrasing.

Congratulations 👏 🎉 on receiving multiple job offers. But, now what? Which one do you accept and why? How do you crack the best deal and negotiate? Read on to know how to plan your strategy and what to avoid doing when you have received multiple job offers. 🔅Assess your priorities: Determine what factors are your priority? - Salary - Benefits, - Work-life balance, - Growth opportunities, - Company culture, or - Location. Example: If work-life balance is a priority, consider a job offer with flexible hours or remote work options. 🔅Evaluate the job offers: Compare the salary, benefits package, job responsibilities, career progression, company reputation, and alignment with your long-term goals. Example: If one offer provides a higher salary and better growth opportunities, it may be more attractive than another offer with fewer benefits but a prestigious company name. 🔅Consider the company culture: Example: If you prefer a collaborative and supportive work environment, a company known for fostering teamwork and employee development might be a better fit. 🔅 Seek additional information: Ask about the potential for career advancement, training and development programs, or the company's approach to work-life balance. 🔅 Communicate professionally: Express your gratitude and be honest and respectful when declining an offer. Example: Thank the employer for the offer and explain that you have carefully considered all aspects and decided to pursue another opportunity that better aligns with your long-term career goals. 🔅 Negotiate strategically: If you have a preferred offer, negotiate with the employer based on market research and your value as a candidate. Be reasonable and flexible in your negotiations, considering both parties' interests. Example: You can negotiate for a higher salary by showcasing your relevant experience, unique skills, or industry certifications that add value to the company. 🔅 Avoid burning bridges: Treat each employer with respect and professionalism, even if you decline their offer. Example: Send a polite and appreciative email declining the offer, expressing your appreciation for their time and consideration. 🔅 Trust your instincts: Example: If you feel a strong connection to the company's mission and values, it may be a sign that it's the right fit for you. 🔅 Seek advice & gain insights from mentors or trusted individuals: Example: Discuss your job offers with someone who has experience in the industry or has faced similar decisions in the past. 🔅 Plan for the future: Evaluate how each offer can contribute to your long-term career progression and professional development. 🙏 Remember, everyone's situation is unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. 👉 Take time to evaluate your options, priorities, and decide that aligns with your career goals and values. 🤝 Let's connect to discuss more #interviewing #hiring #linkedinforcreators #linkedininsider

I’ve got an offer from Microsoft. eBay has offered a better sign-on bonus. Looks like Salesforce is also ready to match. Which one should I take? I received this message from a client who needed help in deciding on the right job offer. While it’s a great problem to have, it’s also one of the most misunderstood. When people get multiple offers, they tend to focus only on salary or brand name. But the right question is: Which offer creates the strongest compound return for your career? Here’s how I walk clients through offer selection (especially in tech): 1. Assess the 24-month runway → Will you still be learning and growing 2 years from now, or will you plateau after 6 months? → Will this team give you mentorship or treat you like a fire extinguisher? 2. Study the team structure & decision-making power → Are you working in a core product org or a side initiative that could shut down tomorrow? → Will you own features, influence roadmaps, or be a ticket-taker? 3. Check the track record for promotions → How long do people usually stay in your level before moving up? → Ask: “Who was the last person in this role and where are they now?” 4. Evaluate long-term visa & location safety (especially for international hires) → H-1B sponsorship, green card timelines, internal mobility not all companies are equal. → Get clarity upfront so you don’t scramble later. 5. Don’t forget: your manager > your brand → A great manager will open doors for you. → A bad one will block your growth, erode your confidence, and slow your career down. My client didn’t take the highest offer. She took the smartest one. Today, she’s working at a top company, and she’s thriving there. 📌 Save this if you're comparing offers. Repost if you know someone who's comparing multiple offers. P.S. Follow me if you are a job seeker in the U.S. I share practical advice to help you land your dream role. 

The secret to accelerating your career isn't spamming mentors with cold DMs or wasting time with small talk at networking events. Instead, ask these 7 key questions to learn from the people ahead of you: 1. What is something most people think is important that I can skip entirely? As a beginner, everything looks important. But as you progress, you realize most things aren't. So instead of wasting your effort in dozens of directions, ask this to figure out what to avoid. 2. What part of your daily routine do you wish you had started sooner? People ahead of you got to where they are with simple daily actions compounded over time: • Figure out what they are • Build them into your days • And stick to them for years 3. What channels led to the building of your highest-quality relationships? It's cliché, but you are the average of the 5 people you surround yourself with. But finding the right people isn't easy—unless you know where to look. So use this question to get some directions. 4. What is something you did differently than your peers 5 years ago that led to pushback, but served you in the long run? If you do what everyone else does, you can expect to achieve what everyone else achieves (mediocrity). Use this question to identify behaviors to shed. 5. What can I expect to struggle with along the way? Growth is having problems today you would have begged to have had years ago. So if you know which struggles are coming, you can prepare for them and continue to grow (which means unlocking new problems). 6. What is something you believed 5 years ago you had to "unlearn" to take the next step? Progress comes from the constant cycle of: • Identifying a bottleneck • Removing it • Repeat Most of the time, that bottleneck is a behavior or belief you have to "unlearn." 7. What's something you didn't pay enough attention to early on, then had to learn the hard way? Early on, you're flying blind. You don't even know what you don't know. So the faster you can uncover these blind spots, the faster you can improve.

We’re seeing early signs of a shift from an employer-driven market toward a more candidate-driven one — let’s not get too excited — we're not back in the gold rush of 2021. Highly sought-after candidates are receiving multiple offers and counteroffers. That creates optionality — and complexity. It’s a tough position for both employers and candidates. If you’re a candidate weighing multiple opportunities, I’d encourage you to pressure-test your decision across three areas: 1) Job Fit ✅ Which role genuinely excites you on a day-to-day level? Are you choosing growth — new scope, new challenges, upward mobility? Or are you choosing comfort — doing what you already do well, just in a different setting? 2) Boss Fit ✅ Which leader made you want to join their team? In sports, there’s a phrase: “I’d run through a brick wall for that coach.” Who gave you that feeling? 3) Future Fit ✅ Three years from now, will you be meaningfully ahead of where you are today? Is the company positioned for growth? Is the industry stable, expanding, or carrying material risk? Compensation and flexibility matter. Of course they do. But those are easier variables to compare. The harder — and more important — questions are about trajectory, leadership, and long-term alignment. This is the part of the market where thoughtful decision-making separates good moves from great ones. And if you’re an employer navigating counteroffers and competitive processes, I’m always open to sharing perspective.

A client of ours got 2 job offers within 24 hours earlier this week. Yep, 2. One from a company that interviewed him a few weeks ago. And one from a company that interviewed him in June. (Yes, June. As in “summer vacation and sunscreen” June.) And yes, I know it is November. He called me for a little advice, and probably a sanity check, because he felt guilty. Guilty. After losing his job in a company acquisition and watching the job market turn into a dumpster fire, he finally had not one, but two offers on the table. We talked through it all, compensation, timing, culture fit, red flags, etc. He took the role with the company that acted fast. The salaries were similar, but he couldn't shake the bad taste of a 5 month interview process with company number 1. But before he declined the other offer, I said, “Hey, maybe you know someone else who’d be a great fit. Pass their name along.” If you’re getting interviews, offers, and callbacks in this market....don’t apologize for it. Don’t shrink yourself. Don’t feel bad for winning. You earned it. And if you can, throw a rope down to someone still climbing. Recommend them. Tag them. Refer them. And he is going to do just that. When he got downsized, so did 45 of his former co-workers....he knows someone who might be a good fit. #JobSearch #CareerAdvice #Hiring #ResumeWriting

You’re at a networking event. Holding a sweaty plastic cup. Wishing you were home in sweatpants. 🫠 Someone turns to you and says: “So… how was your weekend?” “Busy.” “Cool.” Cue the awkward silence. 🫣 Early in my career, I thought this was just... networking. You make small talk. Exchange business cards. Leave with a lanyard and a vague sense of regret. But small talk never helped me build trust. Or learn anything new. It just filled the air—then vanished. So I started asking better questions. Ones that *actually* sparked connection. Here are 4 questions I now use all the time (and yes, you can steal them): 📌 “What’s something you’re really proud of from the past month?” 📌 “What’s a lesson you’ve learned the hard way in your role?” 📌 “What’s something you’re excited about outside of work?” 📌 “What’s one thing that would make your week 10% better?” Small talk fills silence. But good questions build real relationships. 🙌 ♻️ If this post was helpful, repost it to your network to help others. Follow me Jenny Wood for more content to help you chase what you want, unapologetically.