Titles and seniority impact your ability to drive positive change.

It’s worth knowing what promotion looks like so you can have the maximum impact possible.

In this episode of the Building Better Games podcast, join hosts Ben and Aaron as they delve into strategies for climbing the career ladder in game development.

They explore the often overlooked tactics and mindsets essential for professional growth within the world of gaming.

Ben and Aaron dissect the complexities of career progression, from the unspoken rules of getting promoted to navigating the cultural and structural intricacies of game studios. They address the controversial yet effective strategy of job switching for rapid advancement and the role of relationships in securing promotions.

Key Highlights:

- Insightful strategies for obtaining promotions within the game development industry.

- An exploration of job switching as a double-edged sword for career advancement.

- Practical advice on navigating company dynamics and aligning with organizational culture.

- The importance of building and leveraging relationships to enhance career trajectories.

- Real-world examples of overcoming barriers to promotion and the realpolitik of game studios.

Intrigued by the discussion?

Engage with us in the comments, show your support by hitting that like button, and don't forget to subscribe to Building Better Games for more insightful explorations into the art and science of making games.

Courses built by game devs for game devs - check out “Succeeding in Game Production” https://www.buildingbettergames.gg/succeeding-in-game-production

Sign up for the Building Better Games Newsletter for bi-weekly tips to help you lead game teams! https://buildingbettergames.gg/newsletter/

Check out our website: https://buildingbettergames.gg/

If you think we could help your studio or company build better games, email us at info@valarinconsulting.com to set up a free 90-minute call!

Connect with us:

Ben’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamin-carcich/

Aaron’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/doublearon00/

BBG LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/building-better-games/

BBG Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@building_better_games

BBG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/building_better_games/

In this episode of the Building Better Games podcast, join hosts Ben and Aaron as they recap GDC 2024, diving deep into the heart of game development, user-generated content (UGC), and the role of AI.

Ben and Aaron dissect the changing dynamics of game creation, pondering the sustainability and success of non-lifestyle games amidst a sea of thousands-hour adventures. They navigate the intricate world of UGC, unpacking its potential to accelerate the creation of diverse and engaging gaming experiences.

The dialogue ventures into the corridors of the Game Development Conference (GDC), unravelling current industry trends, the critical importance of bridging the chasm between developers and marketers, and the future of game production in an AI-infused era.

Key Highlights:

• A look at the role and impact of non-lifestyle games, challenging the norms of gaming success.

• A deep dive into UGC's power to democratize game development, enabling creators to shape the future landscape.

• Revelations from GDC, offering a glimpse into the collective mind of the industry, its trends, and its future direction.

• The controversial yet transformative role of AI in gaming, from enhancing content creation to redefining NPC interactions.

• Reflections on the industry's tumultuous waves, including layoffs and leadership challenges, and their impact on the creative process.

Fascinated by the discussion?

Make sure to leave a comment, hit that like button to show your support, and subscribe to Building Better Games for a front-row seat to the ongoing evolution of game development.

Courses built by game devs for game devs - check out “Succeeding in Game Production” https://www.buildingbettergames.gg/succeeding-in-game-production

Sign up for the Building Better Games Newsletter for bi-weekly tips to help you lead game teams! https://buildingbettergames.gg/newsletter/

Check out our website: https://buildingbettergames.gg/

If you think we could help your studio or company build better games, email us at info@valarinconsulting.com to set up a free 90-minute call!

Connect with us:

Ben’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamin-carcich/

Aaron’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/doublearon00/

BBG LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/building-better-games/

BBG Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@building_better_games

BBG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/building_better_games/

Is true leadership about wielding power, or is it the art of empowering others?

In this episode, Ben and Aaron tackle the often misunderstood concept of servant leadership within the game development arena.

They dissect the myths surrounding the philosophy, highlighting the difference between being a mere servant to the team and truly leading by serving. Delving into the nuances of engineering as both an art and a science, the duo sheds light on the importance of flexibility in leadership styles.

From the necessity of adapting one's approach to the diverse needs of a team to the critical role of continuous learning and adaptation for leaders, this discussion covers of leadership challenges and strategies in the complex world of game development.

Key Takeaways:

• A thorough examination of servant leadership and its misconceptions, emphasizing the balance between serving and leading for effective team management.

• Insights into the dual nature of engineering in game development, recognizing the creative and technical skills that engineers bring to their work.

• Strategies for leaders to adapt their style and approach, understanding the significance of being a teacher, mentor, coach, or leader as required.

• The importance of continuous learning and skill development for leaders to remain effective in the ever-evolving game development industry.

• Practical advice on navigating organizational structures, team dynamics, and the ethical responsibilities inherent in leadership roles.

Join Ben and Aaron as they unravel the complexities of leadership in game development, offering valuable lessons on how to lead teams to success while fostering a culture of collaboration, creativity, and innovation.

Loved the episode?

Don’t forget to hit the like button, leave a comment with your thoughts, and subscribe to stay updated on the latest discussions in the game development community!

Courses built by game devs for game devs - check out “Succeeding in Game Production” https://www.buildingbettergames.gg/succeeding-in-game-production

Sign up for the Building Better Games Newsletter for bi-weekly tips to help you lead game teams! https://buildingbettergames.gg/newsletter/

Check out our website: https://buildingbettergames.gg/

If you think we could help your studio or company build better games, email us at info@valarinconsulting.com to set up a free 90-minute call!

Connect with us:

Ben’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamin-carcich/

Aaron’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/doublearon00/

BBG LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/building-better-games/

BBG Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@building_better_games

BBG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/building_better_games/