Conquering the Career Game: Navigating the Gaming Industry

Aspiring professionals in the gaming industry often face unique challenges and opportunities that require careful navigation, a willingness to take risks, and, like most things, a bit of luck. As luck would have it, I see the entrance to a dungeon; let's go plunder. Today, we will cover challenges and lessons learned and provide valuable tips and strategies.

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Reasoned! If you enjoyed this episode, we encourage you to follow us on social (LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter) or subscribe to our podcast on your preferred platform. This way, you'll never miss out on the latest insights and discussions on a wide range of topics, including technology, leadership, innovation, and more. Stay curious, keep learning, and let's explore the possibilities of a rapidly evolving world together.

Transcript

Aspiring professionals seeking a career in the gaming industry often face unique challenges and opportunities that require careful navigation, a willingness to take risks, and, like most things, a bit of luck. As luck would have it, I see the entrance to a dungeon; let's go plunder. Today, we will cover challenges and lessons learned and provide valuable tips and strategies.

Cast Resilient (CON)

Passion and resilience are simply required to pursue a career in gaming; this industry can be highly competitive and demanding. In fact, I recommend a strong sense of perseverance to overcome challenges and setbacks. There are countless stories of rejection letters and missed opportunities. Resilience helps you manage stress, bounce back from failure, learn from mistakes, and face adversity. 

Building resilience is a process that involves developing skills, attitudes, and behaviors that enable you to cope effectively. Here are some key steps to help you build resilience:

1. Cultivate a positive and optimistic outlook on life. Practice positive self-talk and focus on your strengths, achievements, and possibilities rather than dwelling on negative thoughts or failures. The voice in your head is incredibly mean; let's put it on silent and teach it better language. 
2. Build and maintain a strong support system of family, friends, or other trusted individuals. Surrounding yourself with people who care about you and can offer emotional support can help you cope with challenges and adversity. These people can also help you recognize when things may have gotten out of hand. 
3. Take care of your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Get enough sleep, eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and engage in activities that you enjoy and that help you relax and de-stress.
4. Enhance your problem-solving skills to address challenges and setbacks effectively. Break problems down into manageable steps, brainstorm potential solutions, and take action to address them. Be open to learning from failures and setbacks as opportunities for growth.
5. Cultivate flexibility and adaptability to navigate change and uncertainty. Be willing to adjust your plans, expectations, and perspectives when facing challenges. Embrace change as a natural part of life and focus on what you can control.
6. Enhance your emotional intelligence by becoming aware of your emotions, managing them effectively, and developing empathy towards others. This can help you regulate your emotions and improve your relationships during challenging times.
7. Practice mindfulness, which involves being in the moment without judgment. In our minds, we often dwell on past memories or worry about the future. Mindfulness can help you develop greater self-awareness, manage stress, and enhance your ability to cope with challenges. 
8. Set realistic, achievable goals that are aligned with your values and priorities. Break down larger goals into smaller, manageable steps, and celebrate your progress along the way. Checking these goals off as you achieve them is a great serotonin boost. 
9. Humor can be a powerful coping mechanism during difficult times. Maintaining a sense of humor can help you keep things in perspective and find moments of levity even in challenging situations.

Remember that building resilience is a process that takes time and effort. Be patient with yourself, practice self-compassion, and seek professional help if you feel overwhelmed.

Stat Stacking

The gaming industry offers a wide range of career paths, including game development, game design, programming, marketing, esports, publishing, human resources, streaming, finance, facilities, content creation, social media, and customer service, among others. Identifying your strengths and interests early on and focusing on developing specialized skills in your chosen field is crucial. Developing your skills by putting points in places where you have strengths is helpful for most careers.  

Continuous self-assessment and improvement are a huge part of this process; you need to know where to focus. Many of my colleagues agree that this is a lifelong process. Invest your time in continuous learning, read articles, join associations, attend meet-ups, get a mentor, etc. 

Looking for Group

All industry experts also highlight building a solid professional network as a valuable strategy. Networking can provide opportunities for mentorship, collaborations, job referrals, and valuable insights. According to a report by LinkedIn, around 85% of all jobs are filled through networking and word-of-mouth, indicating the importance of networking in the job search process. Additionally, a U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics survey found that around 70% of job openings are not advertised and are instead filled through referrals, networking, and other non-traditional methods. Let's cover some places that provide great networking opportunities within the gaming industry: 

1. Industry Events such as Networking events, conferences, and conventions are popular places for professionals to connect, collaborate, and learn. According to industry reports, major gaming conferences such as E3 (Electronic Entertainment Expo), D.I.C.E. (Design, Innovate, Communicate, Entertain) Summit, and Gamescom attract tens of thousands of attendees from around the world.
2. Numerous professional associations and organizations are dedicated to the games industry, such as the International Game Developers Association (IGDA) and the Game Audio Network Guild (G.A.N.G.), which offer networking opportunities through events and online communities, and forums.
3. Networking in the games industry also takes place through social media platforms, online forums, and communities dedicated to gaming. Platforms such as LinkedIn, Twitter, and Discord are commonly used for networking, sharing industry news, and connecting with fellow professionals.
4. Game jams and hackathons are popular events in the community where developers come together to create games within a short timeframe. These events provide opportunities for networking, collaboration, and showcasing skills and creativity.
5. Job fairs specifically focused on the gaming industry are organized by various organizations and companies, providing a platform for networking and job opportunities within the gaming industry. In fact, many companies host events on college campuses; keep an eye out. 
6. Developer conferences, such as GDC (Game Developers Conference), provide opportunities for networking among game developers, programmers, designers, artists, and other industry professionals.
7. Many games have online communities and forums where players and industry professionals connect, collaborate, and share information. These communities can be a valuable networking resource, especially for those interested in specific genres or niches within the gaming industry. And didn't I hear you say you needed another reason to play games?

Networking is not just about exchanging business cards but building meaningful relationships and nurturing them over time. Here are some tips to strengthen your networking skills:

1. Learn people's names; even better if you earn other things about them, but the name is significant, start there. 
2. Create win/win situations where both of you benefit; this connection shouldn't be one-sided. 
3. Become a connector by introducing people who can benefit from each other; folks remember this and may consider introducing you to others. 
4. Remember to reconnect and stay in touch with your networking contacts; only tapping your network for job referrals can erode the relationship. 
5. Use social networks like LinkedIn to connect with people in your industry; this helps you keep track of those you meet (without needing business cards). 

When networking, it's important to focus on adding value rather than just getting something from others. Building a professional network can open doors to new opportunities, help you learn new strategies, and form valuable connections for your career growth. Whatever you do, actively participate.

Combat Metrics

Gaining practical experience and showcasing your work is another crucial aspect of career growth (remember you gain experience even if you are working on a side project, an internship, or volunteering).  Let's cover some things to keep in mind: 

1. Regularly update your portfolio with your latest and best work (this means you need to edit). Include a variety of samples that showcase your skills and expertise, highlight your achievements, and demonstrate how your work has made a positive impact.
2. Keep your resume updated with your most recent experiences, skills, and qualifications. Tailor your resume for each specific job application, focusing on relevant information that matches the job requirements - a great and easy spot to do this is by editing your skills. Use a clean and professional format, and proofread for any errors.
3. Review your online presence, including your social media profiles and online portfolios. Ensure your information is accurate and represents you and how you want to be perceived. Remove outdated or irrelevant content that may not align with your current career trajectory.
4. Tweak your resume and online presence with relevant keywords and Search Engine Optimization (SEO) techniques. This can help you to be more discoverable by potential employers.
5. Maintain consistency across your portfolio, resume, and online presence regarding formatting, style, and messaging. Think about the use of color, font, headshot, etc. This helps to create a cohesive and professional brand image. 
6. Set a routine to regularly review and update your portfolio, resume, and online presence, such as quarterly, but at minimum twice a year. This ensures that your information is always current and reflects your latest accomplishments and skills - after all, you wouldn't raid without repairing your armor, would you? You have to be ready for an internal or external opportunity when they arise; don't fall victim to complacency because you enjoy the company you work for. 

By keeping your portfolio, resume, and online presence updated, you can effectively showcase your skills, qualifications, and achievements to potential employers or clients and increase your chances of success in your professional endeavors.

Push To Talk 

In addition to technical skills, soft skills such as communication, leadership, teamwork, adaptability, problem-solving, and emotional intelligence are game changers. This industry is highly collaborative, and professionals need to effectively communicate their ideas, work well with others, and solve problems creatively and efficiently. Effective communication and leadership skills are essential in building a cohesive team and delivering successful projects; we are all responsible for contributing to that cohesiveness. Here are some tips on how to improve your soft skills:

1. Practice active listening by fully engaging in conversations, asking questions, and avoiding distractions. Be mindful of your tone, body language, and clarity of expression. Seek feedback and be open to constructive criticism to improve your communication skills.
2. Take initiative and lead by example. Develop decision-making skills, delegate tasks effectively, and motivate and inspire others. Build trust by being reliable, supportive, and approachable. You don't have to manage people to learn leadership skills. 
3. Collaborate with others and appreciate diverse perspectives. Foster a positive team environment by actively contributing, respecting others' opinions, and resolving conflicts constructively. Be a team player by helping and supporting your colleagues.
4. Embrace change and be open to new ideas and perspectives. Have an open mindset and be willing to learn and adapt. Develop flexibility and resilience to handle unexpected situations or challenges.
5. Develop critical thinking and analytical skills to identify and solve problems effectively - ask many questions, challenge group think, and focus on understanding the problem. 
6. Develop self-awareness by understanding your emotions, strengths, and weaknesses. Develop empathy and understand the feelings and perspectives of others. Practice effective emotional regulation and interpersonal skills.
7. Be proactive in seeking opportunities for continuous learning and skill development. Stay updated with industry trends and best practices. Seek feedback from others and learn from your experiences to continually improve your soft skills.

Remember, improving soft skills is an ongoing process that requires practice and self-reflection. Enhancing your soft skills can improve your interactions with others, strengthen your professional relationships, and help you excel in your career.

Download The Patch

The gaming industry is constantly evolving, with new technologies, platforms, and business models emerging regularly. Staying updated with the latest trends, technologies, and skills needed in the gaming industry will help you land the role and progress in your field. So how do you stay current? 

1. Stay informed about trends and innovations through reputable sources such as industry publications, books, blogs, forums, podcasts, and news websites. Set up Google Alerts or subscribe to newsletters to receive regular updates.
2. Attend industry conferences, workshops, and seminars to learn from industry experts, gain new insights, and network with peers. Be sure to visit the recruiting booths.
3. Invest in continuous learning by enrolling in relevant courses, certifications, or workshops. Many professional organizations and online platforms offer industry-specific training programs to help you acquire new skills and stay current.
4. Follow influential individuals and thought leaders in your industry on social media platforms such as LinkedIn, Twitter, or industry-specific forums. Engage in discussions, ask questions, and learn from their insights and experiences.
5. Collaborate with your peers and learn from their expertise. Engage in knowledge-sharing, brainstorming, or team discussions to learn from each other's experiences and perspectives.
6. Cultivate a curious mindset and proactively seek opportunities to learn and grow. Stay curious about emerging technologies, industry trends, and best practices. Seek feedback, ask questions, and be willing to step out of your comfort zone to acquire new skills and stay updated.

Remember, staying current on industry trends and skills is a continuous process that requires effort and commitment. By staying informed and continually upgrading your skills, you can remain competitive.

Raid Wipe 

Dealing with setbacks, layoffs, or roadblocks is an inevitable part of any career, including, and most significantly, in the gaming industry. Facing these challenges in your career can be overwhelming, but with the right mindset and strategies, this too shall pass with you still intact. Here's some advice on how to navigate these situations:

1. It's important to acknowledge and accept the situation, especially a layoff, as a part of your career journey - but not a reflection of your skills or self-worth. Allow yourself to feel the emotions associated with it, but avoid dwelling on negativity or blaming yourself. Instead, focus on taking positive steps to move forward.
2. First, consider the situation and identify what you can learn from it. Consider what went wrong, what could have been done differently, and what skills or knowledge you can gain to improve in the future. Use the setback as an opportunity for growth and self-improvement. This isn't as easy as it sounds, but it is significantly easier if you have processed your emotions first. 
3. Don't hesitate to seek support from friends, family, mentors, or colleagues. Talking to others about your situation can provide different perspectives and valuable advice. Surround yourself with a supportive network that can offer encouragement, guidance, and help to stay motivated during challenging times.
4. Use the setback or layoff as an opportunity to upgrade your skills, update your resume, and expand your professional network. Take relevant courses or certifications to enhance your qualifications and increase your chances of finding new opportunities. Networking can also help you uncover hidden job opportunities and connect with potential employers or mentors.
5. Maintaining a positive mindset and staying persistent in your job search or career advancement efforts is crucial. It's normal to face rejection or roadblocks, but don't give up. Stay focused on your goals, stay motivated, and keep pushing forward despite setbacks.
6. Be open to exploring new opportunities that may arise. Consider different industries, roles, or locations that align with your skills and interests - even if it's not in gaming, it doesn't mean you can't parley the experience back into the industry. Don't limit yourself to your previous career path; be willing to step out of your comfort zone and learn to say yes. 
7. Career setbacks can be emotionally draining, so prioritizing self-care is important. Take care of your physical and mental well-being by getting enough rest, eating healthy, staying active, and managing stress. Taking care of yourself will help you stay resilient and better equipped to face challenges.

Remember, these are temporary obstacles in your career journey. By maintaining a positive mindset, learning from the experience, seeking support, and taking proactive steps, you can overcome these challenges and come out stronger on the other side.

Find a Wizard

Many of us attribute our success to the guidance and mentorship we received from experienced professionals throughout our careers. From personal experience, having a mentor who believed in my potential and provided guidance and feedback was instrumental in my career growth. So how do you select and work with a mentor:

1. Before seeking a mentor, clarify your goals and what you hope to achieve from the mentoring relationship. This will help you identify the type of mentor you need, set expectations for the partnership, and help you target a mentor's career level.
2. Look for mentors who align with your career goals, values, and interests. Consider their experience, expertise, and background to ensure they can provide relevant guidance and support.
3. Utilize your professional network, industry associations, or alumni networks to find potential mentors. Ask for recommendations from trusted sources, and conduct research to learn more about their expertise and reputation. Use services like ADP List to find mentors.
4. Once you've identified a mentor, work together to establish clear expectations for the relationship. Discuss your goals, preferred communication methods, frequency of meetings, and any specific areas you need guidance.  
5. Remember that mentors are busy professionals, so be respectful of their time. Come prepared for each meeting, be punctual, and be mindful of their schedule.
6. Mentors are there to provide guidance and feedback, even if it may be constructive or challenging to hear. Be open to receiving feedback with an open mind and a willingness to learn and grow.
7. Take ownership of your career development and be proactive in seeking guidance and advice from your mentor. Come prepared with questions, ideas, and a willingness to take action on their recommendations.
8. Mentors are volunteering their time and expertise to help you, so be sure to express gratitude and appreciation for their guidance and support. Show respect, thank them for their insights, and keep them updated on your progress.
9. Respect the confidentiality of the mentoring relationship. Avoid sharing any sensitive or confidential information shared by your mentor with others without their consent.
10. Mentoring is a long-term relationship, so stay committed to the process and be patient with your progress. Building a strong and trusted relationship with your mentor takes time, so be proactive in nurturing the relationship and maintaining regular communication.

Remember, finding and working with a mentor can be a valuable professional growth and development opportunity. Be proactive, respectful, and committed to the relationship, and utilize their guidance to advance your career.

Roll a 20

Power dynamics play a significant role in our careers, whether we realize it or not. Some people seem to have a natural ability to command respect and influence, while others struggle to make their voice heard and often feel undervalued. Understanding power dynamics and how they work can help you navigate your career more effectively.

Firstly, it's important to recognize that power can take many forms. It can come from your position within an organization, the relationships you have with others, your expertise or knowledge, or even your personality traits. Each of these forms of power can be leveraged in different ways to achieve your goals.

When it comes to navigating your career, one of the most important things you can do is develop your own power base. This means building strong relationships with colleagues and managers, developing your skills and expertise, and cultivating a reputation for being a valuable contributor to your organization. In Jeffery Pfeffer's book Power: Why Some People Have it, and Others Don't, he states that most people do not succeed because they “Believe that the world is fair, people fail to note the various land mines in the environment that can undermine their careers.”

An important aspect of navigating power dynamics in your career is being aware of the power dynamics at play within your organization. This means understanding who holds the most power, how decisions are made, and who has influence over key decisions. This information can help you identify opportunities to build relationships with people who can help advance your career goals and avoid potential roadblocks.

It's also important to develop your own skills in managing power dynamics. This can include developing your communication skills, learning how to negotiate effectively, networking inside and outside your company, and being able to identify when power dynamics are at play in a given situation. Being able to navigate power dynamics with confidence and skill can help you achieve your career goals while avoiding potential pitfalls.

It's important to recognize that power dynamics can change over time. Just because someone has power today doesn't mean they will always have it. Being adaptable, continuing to develop your skills and relationships, and staying attuned to the changing power dynamics within your organization can all help you navigate your career successfully over the long term.

Understanding power dynamics and how they work is essential for anyone looking to navigate their career successfully. By building your own power base, networking effectively, and developing your skills in managing power dynamics, you can position yourself for success and achieve your career goals over the long term. 

In conclusion, navigating career growth requires developing a multi-faceted group of skills. The gaming industry is a dynamic field that offers exciting opportunities for career growth. However, it also presents unique challenges that require a willingness to learn, adapt, and persevere. As the gaming industry continues to grow and evolve, aspiring professionals must equip themselves with the right skills, mindset, and strategies to navigate their career paths successfully. So, whether you are a game developer, designer, artist, sound engineer, or any other professional in the gaming industry, remember to take a proactive approach to your career growth, stay curious, seek mentorship, and you will be well on your way to concurring the exciting and dynamic world of gaming.