Fiona Hickey of Games Inc: Asking stupid questions can hold the key to success

(AsiaGameHub) –   My announcement in 2019 that I was leaving a fantastic position at Betting Jobs for Push Gaming was met with confusion. To many, the move was illogical. Why abandon a comfortable, high-paying job to venture into a completely unfamiliar sector of the industry where I had no background?

My understanding of the gaming world was from a recruitment standpoint. I had achieved considerable success, established a stable career, and developed a powerful network. The supplier side, however, was a completely unknown landscape. I was also leaving a director-level role and accepting a significant reduction in salary.

For me, though, this was simply another instance of a lifelong habit: having faith in myself. I have always welcomed new challenges and was completely confident, even if some saw it as naive, that I would ultimately be successful.

A route to the top

My entry into the iGaming sector was unplanned, as is the case for most professionals in the field. Frankly, hardly any of us aspired to work with online slots and betting platforms as children. I moved from Ireland in 2010 after a role at the recruitment firm Manpower and joined Betting Jobs, a leading specialist iGaming recruitment agency.

I enjoyed nine highly successful years there, progressing through the ranks to a senior leadership position. I was lucky to collaborate with exceptional CEOs and experts early on, many of whom influenced the professional I am today. I established a solid reputation, commanded a good income, and handled key accounts.

Everyone in my professional and personal circles was shocked that I would give up a secure, prominent role to essentially start over on the supplier side with Push Gaming. I had mastered the recruitment aspect, but the supplier side was a different challenge altogether.

My understanding of the new role’s demands was remarkably naive. I assumed it involved agreeing on commercial terms, closing the deal, and moving on. I had no concept of what an integration entailed, nor did I anticipate the intense struggle for positioning with each release and the immense pressure involved.

But one thing I was sure of: I would find a way. As I have repeatedly done in my career, I trusted in my ability to succeed. I was hungry to learn, and my key takeaway is that the willingness to learn is a major part of the victory.

Asking stupid questions

A crucial lesson from these transitions is that true learning begins when you stop trying to impress everyone. Ego can be a massive obstacle to success; I’ve observed people fail not from a lack of talent, but from too much pride to acknowledge what they don’t know.

During my tenure at Push Gaming, I saw the company expand dramatically. We grew from approximately 45 employees with a new internal platform and no integrations to about 300 staff with 80 direct integrations. We formed hundreds of partnerships in regulated markets and ultimately witnessed the company’s acquisition.

This achievement was complex, but I attribute part of it to a rarely discussed skill: the courage to ask what might be considered stupid questions.

This is an ability I urge everyone to cultivate: posing questions without ego. Regardless of whether you are an industry newcomer or an experienced professional, inquiring and learning are vital for advancement. When I became MD/CEO of Games Inc last year, our CTO would frequently explain technical details, and I would often have to interrupt to ask for a clearer explanation.

A supportive industry

Based on my experience, valuable mentors will never fault you for a lack of knowledge, but they will criticize you for making avoidable errors due to pride preventing you from seeking help.

Another important insight from my years at different levels is that the idea of cut-throat competition among all senior executives is false. While the industry is competitive, it is also cooperative, and leaders are constantly seeking deeper understanding. I have gained support and guidance from numerous peers, but only because I had the courage to request it.

I regularly communicate with many competitors, and we exchange support and assistance. The sector is brimming with highly skilled individuals, and the primary obstacle to accessing their knowledge is often oneself.

Important lessons

If you are new to the industry or mid-career and seeking guidance, here is my advice: avoid being the most knowledgeable person in the room, and if you are, find a new room promptly.

Similarly, never fear making your role redundant. Withholding skills or information does not help you; share your expertise to help your team. If you become dispensable at one company, you will almost certainly be needed elsewhere.

Lastly, remain curious and enjoy the journey. The iGaming industry is filled with exceptional people and fosters curiosity and risk-taking. Never hesitate to ask for clarifications and demonstrate a sincere interest in the sector. I always prefer to work with people who have authentic interest and passion—qualities that cannot be fabricated.

And remember to have fun. This industry has given me remarkable opportunities. I travel to incredible events, converse with brilliant individuals, and enjoy myself. Few industries offer such rewards, so make the most of it.