Global Gaming Women Forging Ahead with Unique Content and Events

GGW Voices is an ongoing collaboration between CDC Gaming and Global Gaming Women featuring commentary and insight from women in the gaming and casino industry. GGW offered the platform to Hillary McAfee a social media marketing consultant specialising in gaming brands and co-host of the MaxBet podcast. She’s led successful campaigns for brands like BetMGM, Brian Christopher, and Carnival Cruise Line, reaching millions globally. Hillary also serves as Marketing Liaison for Global Gaming Women.

Gaming Industry is a Small Interconnected World

Hillary discusses her experiences as a woman in the gaming industry, highlighting the close-knit connections and relationships that exist within it. The gaming industry is a small and interconnected world where people know and recognise each other whether that is slots, bingo or online casinos.

Hillary said that when she first joined the gaming industry, it felt like she’d accidentally walked into a high-stakes family reunion.

 Everyone knew everyone, was somehow related, and had a long list of “Remember that time we did that thing with Steve?” stories.

 

Fashion Statements via Amazon

The EKG Awards showcase a consistent and distinctive style, with attendees often dressing in bold and sometimes questionable fashion. Hillary turns her attention to the awards and offers her own unique perspective saying: “At least 15 attendees will pair Jordans with Brooks Brothers suits, fully committing to the “I’m edgy but still corporate” vibe. Meanwhile, I’m over here fighting for my life in 3-inch heels, like a fragile 6’2″ tree in the Amazon rainforest. But we love that level of comfort for them. Then there are always a handful of attendees who think, “What Vegas really needs is a red, movie theatre usher suit jacket moment.” And just like that, Amazon 2-day shipping makes all their dreams come true. It’s bold, it’s questionable, and it’s exactly what you expect to see.”

Consistency is also evident in the industry's leaders. Hillary singles out Light & Wonder's CEO, who she says is known for his autumn-coloured jacket, which has become an industry mascot.

The gaming world may innovate at lightning speed, but that jacket reminds us all to stay grounded. Like the RZA once said, ‘Wu-Tang is forever’—and so, it seems, is the official LnW brown sport coat.

Always Advice on Offer From Power Players

Hillary's experience at G2E and other events illustrates the importance of building strong relationships and being kind to everyone, as you never know who you might end up working with or working for.

Writing about the tight knit community, which exists in the events industry Hillary said: “The gaming world is filled with power players, “lifers” and tight-knit connections. Many of the people I’ve met have been here since graduating college (or earlier), and they’ve literally grown up with the industry. One of my favourite pieces of advice came from an industry friend: ‘Be kind to everyone. Because you never know who you might end up working with… or working for.” Wise words, especially in an ecosystem where today’s casual acquaintance might be tomorrow’s boss.”

Asking a CEO to Take Your Photo Has Merits

There is definitely a feel-good factor at big events. People are there with a purpose. Sure, they might have to give the hard sell or meet targets but there is a very positive vibe and even unexpected connections, like asking a prominent CEO to take a photo, can lead to memorable moments and a sense of community within the industry as Hillary writes:

“Take G2E, for instance. It’s packed with the big players in the industry. And again: Everyone. Knows. Everyone. I had my own “small world” moment during a GGW event at G2E as I was orchestrating photos. As the unofficial and self-appointed Director of Photo Ops, it’s my sworn duty to arrange, stage and recruit the necessary photographers.

“I spotted a man wandering into the patio area, blissfully unengaged in any conversation. He looked approachable, camera-ready (ish), and, most importantly, idle. Perfect. This man is now my target. Lord, make me fast and accurate. I quickly jumpscare – I mean – approach and ask, “Hi! Would you mind taking a photo of us really fast?”

It was as I was handing this man my hot pink phone that I realised I had just asked the CEO of Aristocrat Gaming to be my Instagram boyfriend. To his credit, he said “sure.

 

Make Sure the Dogs Aren’t Barking

Power players like Lauren Bates are highly respected and influential, known for their leadership skills, style, and ability to navigate complex situations with ease.

Hillary highlights the certainties for a zoom call with power players. She writes: “Then there’s the thing about the real power players. The ones who’ve been around so long, you can’t help but watch them navigate the scene like it’s second nature. 

"With Lauren Bates, you know three things are for certain: 

"1. The blowout game is flawless. We must all acknowledge, take note and ask for a tutorial. 

"2. The matrix is getting finalised. Period. 

"3. If Lauren is on your Zoom call, YOU are on the call. Muted? Better make sure your dogs aren’t barking because you will be called on to contribute. With the intensity of a thousand suns, she will glide through each bullet point and ensure every member on the call is included, like a true veteran leader.”