Happy GDC-Eve everyone! I'm about to board the plane to head to SF, but figured I would give some #gdc2024 tips!
* Never waste a meal: Meals are the few times that you can have a deeper and more meaningful conversation with others over the usual 15min hi/bye at parties or in passing. Make sure that whenever possible, go out to eat with someone! Everyone has to eat, if you find yourself hungry, go make a random new friend and see if they are too. I've made some great friends from GDC meals!
* Under 21? Can't get into the parties? Hang out at the larger events in the smoking area / entrance/exit of the event. I know smoking is more frowned upon these days, but those that do need to go outside. You can get some networking in with the people that are in the party, just outside doing their thing.
* Know the general hangout spots: W hotel lobby, Intercontinental, and the lobby and upstairs "death star bar" of the Marriott are all good places pretty much from open to close. During the day above the Moscone North hall, there's a great park where plenty of people hang called Yerba Buena. If you ever find yourself bored, wander over to one of those spots and you'll be bound to find a new friend!
* Go to events! Not all events are full of club music, booming bass and sore throats from yelling, GDC has evolved it's party scene and there's something for everyone. https://lnkd.in/gZfytzFK is currated by an awesome guy, Ty, and you're sure to find something that works for you from board games to alcohol-free!
* Finally don't drink too much! The game industry is small and unfortunately still has a problem with disorderly conduct sometimes. Often it's not helped that we have a ton of people with access to many, many alcoholic beverages. Know your limit and stay under it! This is a work function, not a party.
gl and hf out there folks, if you have any questions, tips, tricks, or whatnot, comment and lemme and others know!
#gdc #networking #networkingevents