Effective Leadership in Game Development: A Guide to Leading Leaders

During her presentation at Develop Brighton, Charity Joy discussed the art of leading individuals who manage other leaders, highlighting the importance of curiosity, trust, and clear communication in supporting managers. She emphasized that having a curious nature and being open to asking questions is crucial when leading leaders, but noted that a "sense of knowing" can hinder this curiosity. Joy encouraged leaders to be comfortable with not knowing and to find joy in discovery. She also stressed the importance of asking questions in a way that encourages team members to share their thoughts and ideas. When asked questions, leaders should pause and reflect before responding, considering the nuances of the situation. Joy highlighted the need for vision alignment and clear communication, emphasizing that confusion at the top can lead to confusion throughout the team. She also warned against making assumptions about team members' expertise and maturity, instead encouraging leaders to trust their teams and provide guidance when needed. Coaching is a key aspect of leading people, according to Joy, who emphasized the importance of providing impartial support and facilitating growth. She suggested that managers should aim to be good facilitators, knowing when to lead and when to follow, and encouraged them to elicit ideas from their teams rather than dominating conversations. Joy also discussed the importance of trust in the workplace, introducing a framework that focuses on capability, reliability, and motive to address underlying issues. She encouraged teams to use this framework to identify and address problems, and to consider how they are perceived by others. By prioritizing trust, consistency, and authenticity, leaders can build a strong foundation for their teams and guide them towards success. Joy recommended that leaders practice intentional self-reflection, using tools like mantras and "I am" statements to cultivate a strong sense of self and leadership. Ultimately, effective leadership in game development requires a deep understanding of oneself and one's team, as well as a commitment to continuous growth and improvement.