Recruiter Hotseat – Eduardo Gonçalves, head of talent acquisition at Keywords Studios

Eduardo Gonçalves, head of talent acquisition at Keywords Studios, explains how the studio group takes part in the entire game development process, and what it is looking for from prospective Keywordians.

What differentiates your studio from other developers?

Keywords Studios is a leading force in the gaming industry, with a global network of over 70 individual studios. Each studio boasts its own distinct identity and capabilities. We take pride in offering solutions throughout the entire game development process, from concept art to full build, QA, and player support. Our expansive service portfolio, hiring reach, client roster, and unwavering commitment to excellence make us an unmatched employer in the industry.

How many staff are you currently looking to take on?

At Keywords Studios, we are on the constant lookout for talent to join our teams. We have an exciting array of 100+ positions available across our studios. We encourage experienced game artists, engineers, designers, and producers to explore these opportunities and join us.

What perks are available to working at your studios?

Working at Keywords comes with a wide range of exceptional perks. We offer a competitive salary and benefits package, flexible working environments, and development opportunities and support for relocation and visa applications.

Employee mental health and wellbeing is also of utmost importance, and we have an employee assistance programme to ensure we support employees as best we can. Additional perks at some of our UK studios include cycle-to-work and IT schemes, pension contributions, healthcare benefits, on-office entertainment, social events, holidays, bonuses, and pet-friendly environments.

What should aspiring devs do with their CV to get an interview?

To increase the likelihood of securing an interview, developers should ensure that their CV showcases their relevant experience This includes education, work experience, programming language proficiency and game engine knowledge, as well as mentioning the titles and platforms previously worked on.

What advice would you give for a successful interview at your studios?

Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively and contribute to an egoless environment. Be prepared to discuss your background and experiences, providing examples to demonstrate your skills and accomplishments. Take the time to research our studios beforehand and outline a clear motivation for wanting to join. Showing genuine interest and enthusiasm can make a positive impression. Lastly, be ready for any assessments that may be part of the interview process.

Who is the best interviewee you have ever had and how did they impress you?

The best interviewee I have encountered demonstrated exceptional preparation, and a deep understanding of the role requirements and company values. They showcased relevant experience through clear and confident communication skills. Moreover, they actively engaged in the conversation, with professionalism, humility, and genuine interest in the company and role.

… and who was the worst? (No need to name names!)

The most challenging interview experience I had involved an individual who displayed a lack of enthusiasm and a disengaged demeanour. Their responses were unstructured and lacked depth, reflecting poor preparation and a lack of attention to detail. Basically, their communication skills fell short.

If you have recruited internationally, what is the process like?

Recruiting candidates from different countries brings its own unique challenges, especially when relocation is involved. Candidates may not have a complete understanding of the difficulties they may encounter when settling in a new country. Successful international recruitment requires meticulous planning and coordination to ensure a smooth transition for the candidates and the organisation.

What processes do you have for onboarding staff remotely?

At Keywords we have comprehensive processes to facilitate the onboarding of remote staff. We prioritise equipping new hires with the necessary equipment and resources for seamless remote work. To ensure a suitable working environment, we also verify their remote setup. We also assign a local HR representative and organise virtual meet-and-greet sessions, or in-person introductions, so they can connect with their colleagues.

What is the culture like at your studio?

It can be described as relaxed, yet innovative and fun. We foster an environment where creativity and collaboration thrive, encouraging our team members to think outside the box and bring fresh ideas to the table. We also prioritise innovation, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in our industry. We believe in creating a positive and enjoyable work environment, where individuals can have fun while delivering high quality work.