By
December 13, 2023
The esports industry has emerged as a powerhouse, captivating the hearts and minds of fans and players worldwide. While the dream of becoming a professional player often steals the limelight, the esports ecosystem offers a wide range of career paths that extend far beyond the controller. In this post we'll uncover the vast range of lucrative but unsung opportunities within esports and reveal how the skills developed in this rapidly evolving sector can be transferred to other industries.
A playground of opportunities
The esports industry is part of the $180 billion gaming sector, that is bigger than the Film and Music industry combined. Similar to the Film and Music industries, there is a lot more that goes on behind the actors and rockstars that keep the industry moving. Esports is a multifaceted landscape that thrives on the collective efforts of diverse professionals. When you first think esports, you might think of the professional player, but the industry of professionals dedicated to building that platform paints a different picture. From team management and event planning, to data analysis and education, the industry is teeming with unconventional careers that cater to a wide array of interests and talents, which is one of the reasons it’s capturing the imagination and passion of so many young people.
Creative opportunities
The esports industry has given rise to a multitude of creative careers, including graphic designers, writers, and artists who contribute to the development of engaging content and immersive experiences. These professionals design eye-catching graphics, promotional materials, and compelling storylines, fuelling the success of esports franchises. Skills honed in these creative roles can be leveraged in advertising, entertainment, and various other creative industries.
Sports and wellbeing roles
As esports become increasingly competitive, the importance of player health and wellbeing has come to the forefront. This awareness has opened opportunities for sports psychologists, nutritionists, and physical therapists to support professional players. These experts help players manage stress, maintain peak performance, and avoid injuries, ensuring they can excel in high-pressure environments. The expertise developed in sports and wellbeing roles can be applied to traditional sports and healthcare sectors.
Team management and esports broadcasting
Behind every successful esports team and event lies a dedicated group of professionals working in team management, operations, and broadcasting. Roles like team managers, producers, directors, and on-air talent are instrumental in ensuring the smooth operation of tournaments and delivering engaging content to millions of viewers worldwide.
Event planners and esports lawyers
As esports events grow in scale and complexity, professionals specialising in event planning and legal services become indispensable. These experts navigate the challenges of organising large-scale events, negotiating player contracts, and protecting the interests of all parties involved in the esports ecosystem.
Esports educators and data analysts
The expanding esports industry has created a demand for skilled educators to develop and teach programs focused on game design, strategic thinking, and team-building skills. Meanwhile, data analysts and statisticians play a pivotal role in providing actionable insights to players and teams, giving them a competitive edge.
Transferable skills: esports as a stepping stone
Outside of being a professional player, there are very few skills that are truly unique to esports. The skills and experiences gained in the esports industry are highly transferable and applicable to various other fields. Expertise developed in esports can translate to broader career opportunities:
- Project management and logistics skills acquired from organizing esports events can be applied to roles in marketing, event planning, and operations in various industries.
- Legal expertise developed in esports can open doors to opportunities in entertainment, sports, and intellectual property law.
- Esports educators and data analysts can leverage their skills in the broader fields of education, technology, and data-driven decision-making.
The esports industry presents a unique opportunity for individuals to pursue their passion while developing valuable skills with broad applications. By embracing the diverse career paths and transferable skills offered in the world of esports, professionals can harness their potential and chart a fulfilling course for their future, both within and beyond the gaming sector. As the industry continues to flourish, the time has never been better for aspiring professionals to dive into the dynamic and exciting world of esports.