EP59: Should You Be a Servant Leader in Game Development?

Is true leadership about wielding power, or is it the art of empowering others? In this episode, Ben and Aaron tackle the often misunderstood concept of servant leadership within the game development arena.  They dissect the myths surrounding the philosophy, highlighting the difference between being a mere servant to the team and truly leading by serving. Delving into the nuances of engineering as both an art and a science, the duo sheds light on the importance of flexibility in leadership styles.  From the necessity of adapting one's approach to the diverse needs of a team to the critical role of continuous learning and adaptation for leaders, this discussion covers of leadership challenges and strategies in the complex world of game development.   Key Takeaways: A thorough examination of servant leadership and its misconceptions, emphasizing the balance between serving and leading for effective team management. Insights into the dual nature of engineering in game development, recognizing the creative and technical skills that engineers bring to their work. Strategies for leaders to adapt their style and approach, understanding the significance of being a teacher, mentor, coach, or leader as required. The importance of continuous learning and skill development for leaders to remain effective in the ever-evolving game development industry.  Practical advice on navigating organizational structures, team dynamics, and the ethical responsibilities inherent in leadership roles. Join Ben and Aaron as they unravel the complexities of leadership in game development, offering valuable lessons on how to lead teams to success while fostering a culture of collaboration, creativity, and innovation. Loved the episode?   Don’t forget to hit the like button, leave a comment with your thoughts, and subscribe to stay updated on the latest discussions in the game development community! Courses built by game devs for game devs - check out “Succeeding in Game Production” https://www.buildingbettergames.gg/succeeding-in-game-production Sign up for the Building Better Games Newsletter for bi-weekly tips to help you lead game teams! https://buildingbettergames.gg/newsletter/ Check out our website: https://buildingbettergames.gg/ If you think we could help your studio or company build better games, email us at [email protected] to set up a free 90-minute call!   Connect with us: Ben’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamin-carcich/ Aaron’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/doublearon00/ BBG LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/building-better-games/ BBG Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@building_better_games BBG Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/building_better_games/