For better or for worse, gamers have a reputation of being unproductive and disengaged from society – traits that are not valued in most business environments. This.
In context: It’s time for workplaces to recognize the value of gaming and the skills it cultivates, such as social interaction, creativity, teamwork, empathy, improved memory, and a sense of competition, according to lecturer Jesse Olsen. Other hobbies like sports nurture similar traits, but people who engage in sports are proud to fly their flags at work. Gamers should feel the same pride in their hobby.
For better or for worse, gamers have a reputation of being unproductive and disengaged from society – traits that are not valued in most business environments. This reputation is not only unfair, according to Jesse Olsen, a senior lecturer at the University of Melbourne, but it also hurts businesses that believe it.
Research is challenging long-held assumptions about video gaming in the workplace. Gaming is increasingly recognized for its ability to develop cognitive, social, and emotional abilities – soft skills that are valued in a business environment, especially as organizations face rapid changes and challenges. In fact, Olsen argues that gaming is at least as positive a signal of employee potential as participating in sports, volunteering, cooking, and other hobbies.
“It’s time to challenge outdated assumptions, recognize the value gaming can bring to the workplace, and do something about it”, he said.
