What are the best ways to become a successful Gaming Industry executive?

From esports to adtech, my main tip here would be aggressively curious about the entire industry. Building a complete picture within your sector and the sister sectors around it will truly set you apart: 1. Consume industry reports from respected leaders within the field. 2. Follow relevant thought-leaders on LinkedIn and try and scope out their podcast appearances and event appearances that might be on YouTube, if available. 3. Keep track of competitors, track them on LinkedIn and other social channels, read their blogs and case studies.

Gaming market and market share are so important to define. A major casino operator on Las Vegas Boulevard, CAN NOT simply use a template from the operator across the street. The term “industry standard” can be a killer and lead to failed practices. Successful operators will a knowledge the market within the market within the market.

In my exp, to become a successful Gaming Industry executive, focus on gaining a strong foundation in biz and leadership skills. Earn a relevant degree and gain industry-specific knowledge. Cultivate a deep understanding of market trends, gamers preferences, and technologies. Network extensively within the gaming community and develop a diverse skill set. Gain experience in different facets of the industry, such as game development, marketing, and project management. Demonstrate a passion for gaming and a commitment to innovation. Finally, showcase a proven track record of successful projects and a commitment to the industry.

Be prepared to start at the very bottom, learn all the basic disciplines in the world of gaming. Be the first to volunteer for cross training, put the hours in and you will reap the benefits. Stay excited and energised through the training periods in each department. Learn to interact with customers, don’t be robotic but be accurate and professional. Your character is who you are, don’t pretend you are somebody else to get noticed, that will happen naturally in the gaming business. As you progress be appreciative of all those around you, especially those who have been influential in your grooming for bigger things. Our business is a lot of fun but always stay focused and dedicated to what you want to achieve.

Pick people's brains that are experts in their particular field so you can learn different aspects of your industry you may not have knowledge in. Ask to be on calls to be a fly on the wall and just listen. At the same time, in your own field, don't be afraid to ask questions and learn the "why" behind the reason something is done the way it is. Not only will it vastly grow your understanding, but you will then begin to come up with different/better ways where they are applicable as you begin to climb the ladder. When you get to a manager level, never forget where you started and remember what it was like in their shoes. Learn to be a chameleon and realize that different people & situations need to be handled in their own ways. Good luck!

Passion is key and will keep you ahead. If it doesn't feel like work when you're watching videos or listening to podcasts about your industry, or when you're consuming relevant industry content, you'll simply gain more and more knowledge and insights than others doing it from 9-5. Passion is also contagious. If you're looking to build an amazing network around you then being the one that is inspiring others through your natural energy towards gaming can't be understated.

If you have the benefit of experience outside of the gaming industry, that can be gold dust for spotting gaps, tactics or innovations that haven't yet been applied. Don't be afraid to question why something within the gaming industry works in a certain way, and challenge it. My personal experience working within more B2C marketing and publishing has helped me approach B2B esports brand sponsorship and gaming adtech with a different perspective that hopefully offers something new in the industry.