How do you network in game development communities without spamming?

1 Choose the right platforms

Not all game development communities are created equal. Some are more active, friendly, and supportive than others. Some are more focused on specific genres, platforms, or aspects of game development. Some are more open to newcomers, while others are more exclusive or elitist. Before you join any game development community, do some research and find out what kind of culture, values, and expectations they have. You want to join a community that matches your interests, goals, and style, and where you can contribute value and learn from others.

2 Introduce yourself properly

Once you have chosen a game development community that suits you, the next step is to introduce yourself properly. Don't just post a link to your game or portfolio and expect people to be interested. Instead, write a brief and friendly introduction that tells the community who you are, what you do, what you are working on, and what you hope to gain from the community. Be humble, respectful, and curious, and show that you are eager to participate and learn. You can also ask a relevant question or share a challenge that you are facing, to invite feedback and conversation.

3 Be helpful and supportive

One of the best ways to network in game development communities without spamming is to be helpful and supportive to other members. Don't just talk about yourself and your projects, but also listen to others and offer your advice, feedback, or encouragement. You can also share useful resources, tips, or insights that you have learned or discovered, or answer questions that others have posted. By being helpful and supportive, you will show that you are a valuable and generous member of the community, and that you care about the success and well-being of others.

4 Be consistent and authentic

Networking is not a one-time event, but a long-term process that requires consistency and authenticity. You can't expect to build trust and rapport with other game developers if you only show up once in a while, or if you only interact with them when you need something. You have to be consistent and authentic in your communication and engagement, and show that you are genuinely interested in the community and its members. You can do this by regularly posting updates on your progress, commenting on other posts, joining events or challenges, or initiating discussions on relevant topics.

5 Respect the rules and etiquette

Every game development community has its own rules and etiquette that you have to respect and follow. These may include guidelines on what kind of content you can post, how often you can post, how to give and receive feedback, how to credit others, how to avoid plagiarism, how to report issues, etc. You have to familiarize yourself with these rules and etiquette, and abide by them at all times. If you violate them, you may risk being banned, reported, or ignored by the community. You also have to respect the opinions and preferences of other members, and avoid being rude, aggressive, or offensive.

6 Collaborate and connect

Finally, one of the most rewarding and effective ways to network in game development communities without spamming is to collaborate and connect with other game developers. You can collaborate on projects, join game jams, form teams, or exchange skills and services. You can also connect with other game developers on a more personal level, by chatting, messaging, calling, or meeting them. You can also invite them to join other platforms or communities that you are part of, or follow them on social media or other channels. By collaborating and connecting, you will create stronger and deeper relationships with other game developers, and open up more opportunities and possibilities for your game development career.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?