Effective Leadership Strategies for Guiding Managers in Game Development

At the Develop Brighton conference, Charity Joy delivered a presentation on the art of leading individuals who manage other leaders, drawing from her experience in game development. She emphasized the importance of curiosity, trust, and clear communication in supporting managers. Joy provided guidance on delivering effective feedback and aligning teams across an organization, particularly when guiding individuals in areas outside of one's expertise. According to Joy, having a curious nature and being open to asking questions is crucial when leading leaders. However, she noted that having a 'sense of knowing' can hinder curiosity and create a barrier to learning. Joy encouraged leaders to be comfortable with not being the expert in the room and to find peace with not knowing. She highlighted the importance of asking questions in a way that fosters curiosity and encourages team members to share their thoughts. When asked questions as a leader, Joy advised taking a moment to pause and reflect before providing an answer. She also emphasized the need for clear communication and vision alignment when leading leaders, as confusion at the top can magnify down to the team level. Joy discussed the importance of coaching as a key aspect of leading people, particularly in providing impartial support. She encouraged leaders to ask questions, provide frameworks, and guide team members on a journey of self-discovery. Joy also emphasized the importance of trust, discerning why trust may be lacking, and using a framework to address underlying issues. This framework revolves around three pillars: capability, reliability, and motive. By using this framework, leaders can identify areas for improvement and work to build trust within their teams. Joy also encouraged leaders to be intentional about how they show up and to practice consistently. She suggested using mantras and 'I am' statements to help leaders stay focused and mindful of their actions. Ultimately, Joy's presentation provided valuable insights and practical advice for leaders looking to improve their skills and effectively guide managers in the game development industry.