I know there's been a lot of debate on what a company does or does not want to be given at a career fair or have mailed to them. I've read several times that online applications are trying to move away from DVDs and would rather have an online portfolio.

What about when I go to GDC? What should I bring?

My instructor has been an employee at Liquid Development here in Portland for several years (so I trust him :p) and he suggests:

-Business card (done already)
-DVD reel

If you have a card with your website on it they can always go to it whenever, but maybe if you have a laptop, or can find a way to access one, you could whip it open and show them stuff right there on the spot.

Ive heard of lots of people showing stuff on their iphone's too, and now there is an ipad so that would be even better for showing off digital images on the spot.

The only disadvantage to a dvd is they can't watch it right away, and they can't look at your site either, so the only thing better would be instant access.

But in that situation you really just have to impress them with your persona, make them remember you so they will look at your site/dvd later.

i'd suggest a bussiness card with your potfolio site, a few dvds, and a laptop.

Printed folio version of your stuff. You dont have to give it away, but it will make an impression. Then there might be stuff they want to see in more detail, in that case you can crack open the laptop. Then give a card linking to your site, and maybe one fullsize printout of your best piece (see it as an oversized business card). Dvd with pictures is a great tool too, and cheap enough for you to make dozens.

(not saying this is industry practice. Just what I would be doing if in your position)

I guess the trick is to not look too much like a PR person advertising for a company. I think it's an easy trap to fall into ...

Hey I've never been to GDC and would be primarily going for the Job Fair portion in the Career Pavillion. Does anyone think it is worth it or am I better off just applying online? I found a list of the companies that were attending and I saw quite a few that I already saw at Siggraph 2009... and while I did get some great info out of it (mainly these boards thanks Sam from Insomniac) I felt like most of them were just HR reps handing out standard business cards with the exception of a few places.

So if anyone can shed light on this that would be awesome. The plane ticket would be about 300 and conference ticket 75. I have a buddy who lives out there who is going so I would split a room with him (he lives in L.A.). So total investment would be hopefully 600 or less.

Thanks

Originally Posted by vcortis

Hey I've never been to GDC and would be primarily going for the Job Fair portion in the Career Pavillion. Does anyone think it is worth it or am I better off just applying online? I found a list of the companies that were attending and I saw quite a few that I already saw at Siggraph 2009... and while I did get some great info out of it (mainly these boards thanks Sam from Insomniac) I felt like most of them were just HR reps handing out standard business cards with the exception of a few places.

So if anyone can shed light on this that would be awesome. The plane ticket would be about 300 and conference ticket 75. I have a buddy who lives out there who is going so I would split a room with him (he lives in L.A.). So total investment would be hopefully 600 or less.

Thanks

I dunno how much of an advantage it really gives you, but there's always a chance that meeting someone in person will help them remember you better, if you come off as a memorable person then you are more likely to stand out, this isn't something you can do over the internet.

The experience of going to a conference though is totally worth it.

Thanks for the info so far everyone.

Firecracker: One thing I am hoping with being able to meet people in person is so they know I'm a pretty laid back person that just loves doing what I do. I may be able to take my GF's iPhone and laptop.

Pior: I'm planning on bringing a laptop, so that helps a lot. You mention a large print out of one of my pieces. I was thinking of doing post cards possibly, just like a large business card. Should I go with the post card idea or should I get a full 8.5x11 print and just write my contact info and portfolio link on the back of it?


This is my business card. Will this suffice?
Front
Back

That's a nice business card you've got their.

Back at GDC08 a few people had demo reel / buisness card combos, using mini-dvds, which I personally thought was a great idea. Used to see dics cut to the shape of buisness cards at places like Wal-Mart and Target even, but not sure if they make burnable ones like that...

Yeah I think the postcard idea is great!!

PolyHertz: Business card shaped mini-DVDs sounds pretty intense. I'll consider it :p

Pior: Good, glad to hear it . I'll probably do something like my business card, and I may do a couple variations of the art on it. Maybe the reverse side I can use as space for a mini-resume showing experience, programs, and skills. You going to GDC this year?


So here's what I plan on bringing now:
-Flat packet, print out of stills for my concept art & 3D
-Laptop for showing online portfolio

Give aways:
-Post cards, one side art, other side mini-resume
-Business cards, skills, programs, contact
-Demo reel showing few 3D projects and and couple stills of concept art at end

Great post, important stuff to think about before GDC and the sooner the better. I'll have to reserve a day for kinkos and get some "postcards" made.

What i did years ago was,
business card cd/dvd(not sure what they were)
Had a copy of my site, a few extra pieces not on my site yet, video turnarounds, resume, contact info, and demo real.
business cards
and print portfolio