Finding Your Right Path in the Mobile Gaming Industry

How Changing Roles Can Lead to Your True Calling

The mobile gaming industry is a dynamic and rapidly evolving field that offers numerous career opportunities.

However, finding the right path within this industry can be challenging. My own journey from a User Acquisition (UA) Manager to the Head of Business Development serves as a testament to the value of exploring different roles and embracing change.

In this article, I’m exploring the importance of role exploration, personal preferences and skills, and how transitioning between roles can lead to a fulfilling career.

Exploring Different Roles

The mobile gaming industry is a multifaceted ecosystem, with roles ranging from game development and design to marketing, analytics, business development and many others. When starting out, it’s common to enter the industry through a role that aligns with your initial skills or education or if you have no relevant experience you can always start at a junior position to try yourself (that was my case). However, as you gain experience, it’s crucial to explore other roles to find where your true passions and strengths lie.

In my case, I began my career as a UA Manager, focusing on acquiring new users for games through various marketing channels. While this role allowed me to develop a strong understanding of data analytics, marketing strategies, and consumer behavior, I soon realized that my interests extended beyond just user acquisition. I was drawn to the broader picture—building relationships, negotiating partnerships, and driving business growth. This realization led me to develop myself and my skills in the business development role.

Personal Preferences & Skills

Understanding your personal preferences and skills is essential in finding the right path in the mobile gaming industry. While I enjoyed the analytical aspect of UA management, I discovered that my true strengths lay in communication, strategic thinking, and relationship management. This self-awareness was key in identifying that business development was a better fit for my long-term career goals.

It’s important to regularly reflect on what aspects of your current role excite you and where you feel your talents are best utilized. Are you more interested in the creative process of game design? Do you thrive in data-driven environments like UA or analytics? Or do you find yourself drawn to the strategic and relationship-building aspects of business development or product management? Or maybe you lean towards finding new revenue opportunities? The list goes on and there are so many things that you can experiment with.

Steps to Transition

Transitioning to a new role in the mobile gaming industry requires careful planning and a proactive approach. Here are some steps to consider:

Self-Assessment: Reflect on your interests, strengths, and areas where you feel you can contribute the most value.

Skill Development: Identify any gaps in your skills that need to be addressed to transition into your desired role. This might involve taking courses, seeking mentorship, or gaining experience through projects or lateral moves.

Networking: Build relationships with professionals in the area you’re interested in. Attend industry events, join relevant online communities, and seek advice from those who have made similar transitions.

Experience: Look for opportunities within your current role to gain relevant experience. For example, if you’re interested in business development, you might volunteer to assist with partnership negotiations or market research.

Positioning: When applying for new roles, highlight how your previous experience adds unique value to the new position. Emphasize your adaptability, willingness to learn, and the fresh perspective you bring.

Overcoming Challenges

Changing roles can be daunting, especially if it involves moving into a completely different area of the industry. You might face skepticism from others or even self-doubt. However, overcoming these challenges is part of the growth process.

When I transitioned from UA management to business development, I faced a steep learning curve. Understanding the intricacies of partnership negotiations, contract management, and strategic planning required me to step out of my comfort zone. However, by leveraging my existing knowledge of market dynamics, I was able to bring value to the business.

Encouragement & Inspiration

If you find yourself questioning your current role or feeling unfulfilled, take it as a sign to explore other opportunities. The mobile gaming industry is vast, and there is a place for everyone, whether you’re a creative visionary, an analytical thinker, or a strategic planner.

Remember, career growth is not always linear. The skills and experiences you gain in one role can often be applied to another, sometimes in unexpected ways. Embrace the journey of self-discovery and be open to change. I’m always a strong believer that if you enjoy what you are doing at work, it becomes part of your life and it doesn’t feel like a job. Don’t waste your time doing something you don’t love.

As someone who has walked this path, I encourage you to take the leap if you feel drawn to a new direction. The experience, knowledge, and confidence you gain from exploring different roles will not only help you find your true calling but also position you as a versatile and valuable asset in the mobile gaming industry.