As the igaming industry grows worldwide, hiring managers and candidates alike face a key question: Does experience in a specific role outweigh prior industry knowledge? Cordelia Morgan-Cooper explores the answer.
Hiring in igaming has never been more competitive. As the industry expands across new markets, companies are casting a wider net to find top talent.
Candidates with strong expertise in a particular role bring transferable skills that can add immediate value. For example:
- Marketing professionals: Digital marketers from e-commerce or fintech sectors often excel in igaming due to their experience with customer acquisition strategies, SEO, content marketing, and paid media campaigns.
- Software developers: Coders proficient in languages like JavaScript, Python, or C++ can transition seamlessly into igaming, especially if they have experience with agile methodologies, real-time data processing, or UX/UI design.
- HR and operations experts: Professionals skilled in talent acquisition, organisational development, or compliance can contribute significantly, leveraging best practices from corporate environments to enhance igaming company cultures.
Hiring managers often prioritise role-specific expertise because the core competencies required are not industry-exclusive. A talented project manager, for instance, can manage timelines, stakeholders, and deliverables effectively, regardless of the industry.
Digital marketers from e-commerce or fintech sectors often excel in igaming due to their experience with customer acquisition strategies
Industry-specific experience
While role-specific skills are crucial, understanding the nuances of the igaming landscape can be equally important, especially in highly regulated markets. Industry experience offers:
- Regulatory knowledge: Professionals familiar with compliance requirements in jurisdictions like Malta and the UK can navigate complex legal frameworks efficiently, reducing risks for the company.
- Product understanding: Knowing how igaming products operate enables quicker onboarding and more effective decision-making.
- Network and relationships: Established connections with affiliates, regulators, and industry stakeholders can accelerate business growth and partnership opportunities.
Striking the right balance
Ultimately, the ideal candidate often combines both role-specific expertise and some level of industry knowledge.
Professionals familiar with compliance requirements in jurisdictions like Malta and the UK can navigate complex legal frameworks efficiently, reducing risks for the company
However, when faced with a choice, companies should consider the specific needs of the position:
- Technical roles: Prioritise role-specific skills. A data analyst proficient in SQL, Python, and Tableau will add value quickly, for example, even without igaming exposure.
- Compliance and regulatory positions: Industry experience becomes critical due to the legal complexities involved.
- Customer-facing roles: A blend of both can be beneficial. Understanding customer behaviour in the igaming context, coupled with strong communication skills, enhances performance.
The importance of networking
Networking plays a pivotal role in breaking into the igaming industry. Building connections within the sector can open doors to job opportunities and mentorship that aren't always accessible through traditional channels. Here's why networking matters:
- Access to hidden opportunities: Many igaming roles are filled through referrals and internal recommendations. Networking increases your chances of learning about these opportunities before they're publicly advertised.
- Industry insights: Engaging with professionals already in the industry provides valuable insights into company cultures, role expectations, and emerging trends.
- Building credibility: Regular interaction with industry peers, whether through LinkedIn, industry forums, or events, helps establish your presence and credibility within the sector.
- Learning and development: Networking isn't just about finding a job; it's also about continuous learning. Participating in webinars, joining industry-specific groups, and attending conferences can deepen your understanding of the igaming landscape.
How to bridge the gap
For candidates aiming to enter the igaming sector without direct industry experience, consider the following strategies:
- Leverage transferable skills: Highlight accomplishments in similar roles, showcasing how your expertise can solve industry-specific challenges.
- Gain industry knowledge: Enrol in igaming courses and stay updated on regulatory changes.
- Network strategically: Connect with industry professionals on platforms like LinkedIn, join igaming communities, and seek mentorship opportunities.
- Work with recruiters: Partner with recruitment agencies that specialise in the igaming sector. They often have insider knowledge of job openings and can provide valuable guidance on tailoring your application to meet industry expectations.
- Consider professional coaching: Engage with professional coaching services, such as those offered by businesses like MadeYou, to enhance your personal development
- Tailor your application: Customise your CV and cover letter to reflect an understanding of igaming trends and how your background aligns with the company’s goals.
Navigating company culture
One key challenge when transitioning into the igaming industry is adapting to its culture. Unlike traditional corporate environments, igaming businesses typically have flat hierarchies and a more informal way of working.
This can be both refreshing and challenging, especially for professionals coming from structured, highly regulated, or hierarchical organisations. Flexibility, open communication, and a proactive mindset are often valued more than rigid processes, and adapting to this cultural shift is essential for long-term success
Unlike traditional corporate environments, igaming businesses typically have flat hierarchies and a more informal way of working
Expanding the talent pool
Igaming companies often face talent shortages, particularly in specialised areas. To attract top talent:
- Be open-minded: Recognise the value of candidates from adjacent industries. Diverse perspectives can drive innovation.
- Invest in training: Develop robust onboarding programmes to equip new hires with industry-specific knowledge quickly.
- Promote a learning culture: Encourage continuous professional development through courses, certifications, and knowledge-sharing sessions.
Breaking into the igaming industry doesn’t require ticking every box on a traditional checklist. While industry experience offers advantages, role-specific expertise can be equally powerful when combined with a willingness to learn and adapt. Networking also plays a crucial role, helping candidates build relationships, gain industry insights, and discover hidden opportunities.
For candidates, the key lies in articulating how your skills can translate into success within igaming. For employers, broadening the talent lens beyond industry confines can unlock fresh perspectives and foster growth in an increasingly competitive market.
Cordelia Morgan-Cooper
has over a decade of international HR and recruitment experience. She has developed a passion for driving happiness, wellbeing and success in the workplace, having seen first-hand the impact of an engaged workforce when it comes to both recruitment and employee retention.