Throughout my career in the gaming industry, from launching major titles in Southeast Asia to organizing large-scale esports events, I've witnessed countless talented professionals struggle with career advancement. Being overlooked for a promotion is a frustrating experience that's all too common in our competitive field. Today, I want to delve into why this happens and how you can overcome these hurdles to level up your career.

The Silent Struggle: Why Great Work Often Goes Unnoticed

In the fast-paced world of gaming, it's easy to fall into the trap of believing that great work will naturally be recognized and rewarded. However, the reality is often quite different. During my time at Riot Games and other major gaming companies, I've observed that those who advance aren't always the hardest workers, but rather those who effectively communicate their value.

The gaming industry is highly competitive, with limited spots at the top. As you aim higher in your career, these positions become increasingly scarce. This scarcity means that simply waiting for "your turn" is a risky strategy. Others who are more proactive in highlighting their achievements may outpace you, even if your work is equally impressive or even superior.

Moreover, the myth of meritocracy can be particularly strong in tech-oriented fields like gaming. While skills and results are crucial, they're not the only factors in career advancement. Visibility, relationships, and effective self-advocacy play significant roles that many overlook.

Building Your Network: The Power of Relationships in Career Advancement

One of the most critical factors in career progression that I've observed is the strength of professional relationships. Promotions, especially at higher levels, are as much about trust as they are about skills. Without robust relationships within your organization, even exceptional work can go unrecognized or unsupported.

Building these relationships doesn't mean engaging in office politics or insincerity. Instead, it's about creating genuine connections with colleagues, superiors, and even those in other departments. During my career, I've seen how cross-departmental collaborations and relationships can lead to unexpected opportunities and support.

Here are some strategies for effective networking in the gaming industry:

1. Attend industry events and conferences: These are great opportunities to meet people from different companies and roles within the gaming world.
2. Engage in cross-team projects: Volunteer for initiatives that allow you to work with different departments. This broadens your understanding of the business and expands your internal network.
3. Seek out mentors and be a mentor: Learning from experienced professionals and sharing your knowledge with others can create strong, mutually beneficial relationships.
4. Utilize professional social media: Platforms like LinkedIn can be powerful tools for maintaining and expanding your professional network.

Remember, the goal is to build authentic relationships. These connections can become your champions, advocating for you when promotion discussions arise.

The Art of Self-Promotion: Showcasing Your Achievements Without Bragging

One of the biggest hurdles I've seen professionals face, especially in the gaming industry, is the reluctance to promote their own achievements. There's often a fear of coming across as boastful or arrogant. However, effective self-promotion is a crucial skill for career advancement.

It's important to understand that there's a significant difference between bragging and confidently communicating your value. As I often tell the professionals I coach: It's not bragging if you've actually done it.

Here are some techniques for highlighting your contributions effectively:

1. Keep a record of your achievements: Document your successes, big and small. This not only helps in performance reviews but also boosts your confidence.
2. Frame your achievements in terms of value to the company: Instead of just listing what you've done, explain how your work has benefited the team, project, or organization.
3. Share your knowledge: Offer to give presentations or write articles about your successful projects. This positions you as an expert and naturally highlights your achievements.
4. Use the "we" approach: When discussing successes, acknowledge your team's role while also clearly stating your specific contributions.
5. Seek feedback and act on it: Regularly ask for feedback from colleagues and superiors. This shows your commitment to growth and provides opportunities to discuss your progress.

Throughout my career in gaming, from my early days in advertising to leading major esports initiatives, I've seen how these strategies can significantly impact career progression. The professionals who advance aren't always the most talented, but often those who effectively communicate their value and build strong professional relationships.

Remember, advocating for yourself and cultivating relationships doesn't have to feel inauthentic or "slimy." It's about ensuring that your hard work and achievements are recognized and valued. In the competitive world of gaming, where innovation and results are paramount, it's crucial to play an active role in shaping your career narrative.

Have you faced similar challenges in your gaming industry role? How have you overcome them? Perhaps you've found innovative ways to get your work noticed or build meaningful professional relationships. I encourage you to share your experiences in the comments. Let's learn from each other and level up our careers together.

After all, in this "Game of Jobs," we're not just players – we're the protagonists of our own career stories. It's time to take control of your narrative and steer your career towards the success you deserve. Are you ready to press 'Start' on the next level of your professional journey?