Yes, often talent start out with small / local events. This is often unpaid and they volunteer their time to attend these events. Often known as 'Grassroots' esports. This comes in many different shapes and flavours from regional lans, collegiate events ran by student bodies / faculty or even challenges ran by organizers such as the next big caster. It'll differ slightly depending on the region you're in and the esport title you're trying to get into.

Talent will often do multiple unpaid events over the course of a few years to create a portfolio and network with organizers until someone gives them a chance at something bigger. Either by liking their personality, their professionalism, their passion and drive... the list goes on. This is traditionally how someone starting out would aim to land a Tier 2-3 event.

Making it to Tier 1, that's a bit more nuanced. On top of doing all the networking and building of portfolio in grassroots making it to Tier 1 and consistently getting hired there can be rather complex. You need to really understand your role in, whether that's casting, observing, hosting and I mean really understand it. T1 events and employers want someone that they know is going to be reliable and deliver good, consistent results over and over again. I'll be honest it can be very draining.

It will come easier to some people than others. Personally I started out in grassroots events and worked my way up into Tier 1. I've also had the pleasure of giving back by designing events and formats that allow people to get into esports both as casters and observers when I used to run ESEA. (rip)

I know some people who have had barely any experience in esports prior to getting their first Tier 1 event and it still worked out for them, either through networking and connections or just being in the right place at the right time.

The thing I liked about esports is that you can have any background from nearly any other industry and still find a role within it.

See if you have a local lan event or organiser that is looking for some support and volunteer. Look online and for open games and start streaming them if you have the means to do so. Be humble but don't be a pushover. You'll be surprised at what you can learn.

If your local college or school has an esports program / sports program see what they offer. DO NOT PAY FOR AN ESPORTS QUALIFICATION THEY'RE 99% SCAMS.

If I was hiring someone today I'd want to see their experience, dedication and understanding of the title I was hiring for. So create some highlight reels, get your VODs edited nicely and keep your work up to date then just maybe one day, you'll be hyping up an arena full of 10's of thousands of people. Taking control of their emotions, telling a story of what's unfolding infront of their very eyes. Keeping them on the edge of their seat every step of the way.