How to Get Into Esports: Your Complete Guide
Breaking into esports requires strategy, skills, and persistence. This guide walks you through every step—from identifying your path to landing your first role.
Browse Current OpportunitiesThe 6-Step Path Into Esports
Identify Your Path
Esports has many roles beyond playing. Coaching, content, marketing, events, broadcasting, analytics—find what matches your skills and interests.
Build Relevant Skills
Develop the specific skills your chosen path requires. Technical skills, soft skills, and deep game knowledge.
Gain Practical Experience
Create opportunities to apply your skills. Volunteer, freelance, create content, or coach amateur teams.
Network Actively
Esports is a relationship-driven industry. Most jobs come through connections, not applications.
Build Your Portfolio
Create tangible examples of your work. Show, don't tell—portfolios beat CVs in esports.
Apply Strategically
When you're ready, apply to roles that match your experience. Quality over quantity.
Entry Pathways by Area
Competition
Roles: Coach, Analyst, Team Manager, Performance Coach
Entry: Coaching amateur teams, VOD analysis content
Content
Roles: Creator, Editor, Producer, Streamer
Entry: Building your own audience and portfolio
Broadcast
Roles: Caster, Host, Producer, Graphics
Entry: Casting amateur matches, community events
Marketing
Roles: Marketing Manager, Social Media, Partnerships
Entry: Managing social for amateur orgs, freelancing
Events
Roles: Tournament Director, Event Manager, Admin
Entry: Volunteering at local LANs, online admining
Business
Roles: GM, BD, Operations, Finance
Entry: Traditional experience + esports involvement
FAQs
How long does it take to get an esports job?
With focused effort, you might land a paid role within 6-12 months. This assumes consistent networking, skill development, and visible involvement in the scene. Some find opportunities faster through connections, while others take longer to find the right fit.
Do I need to be good at games to work in esports?
Not necessarily. While game knowledge is valuable, you don't need to be a skilled player for most roles. Understanding competitive gaming, meta, and esports culture is more important than your personal rank for roles like marketing, events, or operations.
Is a degree required for esports?
Rarely required but sometimes helpful. Marketing, business, and education roles may prefer degrees. For most esports positions, practical experience, demonstrable skills, and passion matter more than academic credentials.
Should I work for free to get started?
Strategic volunteering can build valuable experience, but be cautious. Short-term volunteering at events or for amateur teams is reasonable. Avoid extended unpaid work for commercial organisations—your skills have value.