Remember the skepticism surrounding adults who play video games? The notion that gaming is reserved for children or deemed a frivolous pastime has long persisted. However, a paradigm shift is underway, challenging these stereotypes and ushering in a new era of appreciation for the skills cultivated in the gaming realm. This transformation, known as gamified employment, is gaining traction and demands our attention. In this article, we delve into why this phenomenon is making waves and why employers should take note.

Defining Gamified Employment

Gamified employment is a groundbreaking concept that acknowledges in-game skills as valuable assets transferable to the professional world. Platforms like Game Academy connect gaming accounts, analyze achievements, and align players with suitable career opportunities. The noteworthy case of a professional e-sports Starcraft player, "SeleCT," securing a software engineering internship at Shopify based on his gaming prowess exemplifies the potential of gamified employment.

Harvesting Skills from the Gaming Universe

The evolution of video games, from tactical shooters to strategic masterpieces like Starcraft, has created a diverse landscape that demands advanced skills and dedication. Gamers spend countless hours honing soft skills such as communication, organization, planning, composure, and executing complex tasks – traits highly sought after in the professional realm. While no one expects office dragons, the ability to absorb information and transform it into actionable skills is a testament to the depth and creativity inherent in video games.

Why Employers Should Take Notice

The question is, why not? Gamers are developing genuine skills that can seamlessly transfer to the workplace or serve as a foundation for acquiring new skills. By dismissing gamified employment, companies risk neglecting a potential source of innovation and top-tier talent. The benefits include:

1. Abundance of Soft Skills: A 2020 study revealed that 40% of the global population plays video games, constituting a vast talent pool. Research from the University of Surrey in 2002 highlighted parallels between in-game soft skills and real-world career paths. Employing gamers could save time and money, as they often come equipped with preinstalled soft skills.
2. Adaptation to Technological Advances: In the ever-evolving landscape of business and employment, technological advances drive change. Gamified employment allows companies to tap into a diverse workforce with a range of skills and experiences. By leveraging the proficiency of seasoned professionals alongside the tech-savvy younger generation, businesses can bridge skill gaps and embrace age diversity.
3. Global Talent Pool: With approximately 3 billion gamers globally, gaming transcends borders. The surge in remote work and the growth of global employment further amplify the potential of this vast talent pool. Gamified employment enables companies to access a global workforce, addressing talent shortages and fostering a borderless approach to recruitment.

As we witness the fusion of gaming and employment, it's clear that dismissing the significance of gamified skills is a missed opportunity. Embracing this paradigm shift can not only revolutionize talent acquisition but also contribute to building a dynamic and diverse workforce for the future.