The Career Game Loop: A Book Review

Several decades ago, Richard Bolles wrote What Color is Your Parachute? on identifying and pursuing your career goals. In some ways, The Career Game Loop is “parachute” for a new generation.

Author Jessica Lindl’s background is in computer gaming. Her book applies the process of gaming to the world of career discernment, development, and achievement. Even if you are not a gamer, you will appreciate the approach (and learn a lot about gaming along the way). Lindl recognizes that one’s career path is no longer linear and provides a new model to take its place.

The process is basically four stages: choose quest, level up, job hunt, and job craft. There are echoes of Joseph Campbell’s “hero’s journey” because that is what good games are all about. Lindl develops each stage in depth with not only personal stories but examples of gaming development.

There’s a lot to absorb in the book, but as one who works with people development, I was particularly interested in the role of helpers in the process. At each stage, we need different types of people to come alongside to encourage success: Mentors, Coaches, Sponsors, and Bosses. Lindl discusses the qualities and functions of each.

This is a fresh, entertaining approach to career development. I would especially recommend to supervisors and leaders who work with a younger generation that has been nurtured by the gaming industry.

#CareerGameLoop

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