Agenda

Most leaders in game development were promoted into "leadership" but rewarded for managing systems and tools. We then collapse "leader," "manager," "people manager," "coach," and "mentor" into one fuzzy blob and default to whatever is most comfortable. Usually that's directing or fast advice. The result is overmanaged, under-led teams and people who never develop the autonomy we say we want.

This talk defines three roles leaders actually play - Leader, Manager, People Manager - and five skills we use to develop others - Directing, Teaching, Advising, Mentoring, Coaching. You'll see when each is appropriate, where most leaders get stuck, and how to choose your stance intentionally based on urgency, risk, context, and the other person's needs. We'll walk through concrete stories from AAA production and real-time roleplays based on audience questions, so you can walk back into your studio with a practical, usable toolkit instead of more leadership buzzwords.

Takeaway

Attendees will gain the ability to articulate and self-assess the roles and skills they use to lead, and some ways to expand their range as leaders.

Intended Audience

Leaders in game dev who are early in their career or looking to understand and grow their leadership skillset.