Throughout my career in the gaming industry, from launching major titles in Southeast Asia to organizing large-scale esports events, I've learned that our community is one of our greatest strengths. Today, I want to talk about how we can harness that strength on LinkedIn to support each other's career growth and build a stronger, more connected gaming industry.

The Power of Professional Networking in Gaming

LinkedIn has become an invaluable tool for professionals in the gaming industry. It's where we share our achievements, seek new opportunities, and connect with like-minded individuals. But it's also much more than that - it's a platform where we can actively support each other's career journeys.

In my years of experience, I've seen how a single connection, a timely recommendation, or a word of encouragement can change the trajectory of someone's career. This is particularly true in the gaming industry, where opportunities often arise through network connections and word-of-mouth referrals.

That's why I'm advocating for a more supportive, engaged approach to using LinkedIn. By following a few simple rules, we can create a more positive, productive environment for all gaming professionals.

Actionable Steps to Support Fellow Gaming Professionals

Here are three simple yet powerful ways we can support each other on LinkedIn:

1. Repost Open Jobs: When you see job openings in your network, take a moment to repost them. This simple act can significantly increase the visibility of these opportunities. During my time at Riot Games, I saw firsthand how internal referrals and network sharing led to fantastic hires. By reposting, you're not just helping job seekers - you're also helping companies find great talent.
2. Engage with #OpenToWork Profiles: When you see someone with the #OpenToWork banner on their profile, give it a like. This small gesture can boost the visibility of their profile and show your support. Remember, many of us have been in that position at some point in our careers. Your engagement could be the boost they need to land their next role.
3. Encourage Portfolio Showcases: When someone shares their portfolio or project work, leave an encouraging comment. As someone who's reviewed countless portfolios in my career, I know how much courage it takes to put your work out there. Your positive feedback can provide validation and motivation, especially for those just starting in the industry.

These actions might seem small, but they can have a significant impact. They increase visibility, provide emotional support, and help create connections that could lead to new opportunities.

Building a Stronger Gaming Community on LinkedIn

By consistently engaging in these supportive behaviors, we can create a more positive and productive environment on LinkedIn for gaming professionals. This approach has several long-term benefits:

1. It strengthens our industry network: Regular, positive interactions build stronger connections within the gaming community. This can lead to more collaboration, innovation, and knowledge sharing.
2. It helps attract and retain talent: A supportive community can make the gaming industry more appealing to newcomers and help retain experienced professionals.
3. It fosters a culture of mutual support: As more people engage in these supportive behaviors, it creates a ripple effect, encouraging others to do the same.
4. It contributes to personal growth: By helping others, we often gain new insights, expand our network, and develop a reputation as a supportive industry professional.

During my career transitions - from advertising to gaming, from marketing roles to leading esports initiatives - I've benefited immensely from the support of my professional network. Now, as a career coach in the gaming industry, I see daily how important community support is for career growth and job satisfaction.

Let's Leave LinkedIn Better Than We Found It

As gaming industry professionals, we have the power to shape our community on LinkedIn. By committing to these simple acts of support, we can create a more vibrant, supportive, and opportunity-rich environment for all.

Remember, every time you repost a job opening, engage with an #OpenToWork profile, or leave an encouraging comment on a portfolio, you're not just helping that individual - you're contributing to the strength and positivity of our entire industry.

So, I challenge you: The next time you log into LinkedIn, look for an opportunity to support a fellow gaming professional. Share that job posting. Like that #OpenToWork profile. Leave that encouraging comment. Let's make our corner of LinkedIn a place where gaming professionals feel supported, encouraged, and connected.

By doing so, we're not just improving LinkedIn - we're strengthening our industry, one interaction at a time. We're creating a community where everyone has the opportunity to find their next, best job in gaming.

Are you ready to join me in this effort? How will you support your fellow gaming professionals on LinkedIn today? Remember, the community we build is a reflection of who we are. Let's make it the best it can be.