Esports, also referred to as electronic sports, has witnessed a tremendous surge in popularity over the past few years. The growth of the industry has resulted in a high demand for professionals in various fields, from gaming to streaming, coaching, and management. In this article, we will delve deeper into the various career paths in esports and the benefits they offer.
Esports is a rapidly growing industry, and there are several career paths available to those who are passionate about video games. This article explores the different careers available in the esports industry and provides examples of individuals who have found success in each field.
Professional Gamers
Professional gamers are the driving force behind the esports industry. These individuals compete in organized tournaments and earn a livelihood through their gaming abilities. The best players in popular games such as League of Legends, Fortnite, and Dota 2 can earn millions of dollars annually.
An excellent example of a successful professional gamer is Kyle “Bugha” Giersdorf. In 2019, he won the Fortnite World Cup and took home a prize of $3 million. He has continued to excel in the esports industry, earning over $7 million in total tournament earnings to date.
Streamers and Content Creators
Streamers and content creators are another vital aspect of the esports industry. They use platforms such as Twitch and YouTube to earn money by live-streaming their gaming sessions or creating video content related to the industry. The top streamers on Twitch can earn upwards of $100,000 per month through subscriptions, donations, and sponsorships.
One of the most successful streamers in the industry is Tyler “Ninja” Blevins. He gained fame by streaming his gameplay on Twitch and has since become a well-known figure in the esports world. He has over 16 million followers on Twitch and has amassed a net worth of over $25 million.
Coaching and Management Careers in Esports
Coaching and management are essential components of the esports industry. Teams and organizations require experienced professionals to guide and manage their players and operations.
Coaches
Coaches play a crucial role in preparing players for competitions and helping them improve their skills. They also help players develop their strategies and game plans, leading to better performance in tournaments. Coaches must have a deep understanding of the game and be able to communicate effectively with players.
One of the most successful esports coaches is Kim “kkOma” Jeong-gyun. He is a former professional League of Legends player who transitioned to coaching and led the South Korean team SK Telecom T1 to three World Championship titles. He is widely regarded as one of the best coaches in the industry.
Team Managers and Operations Managers
Team managers and operations managers are in charge of overseeing the day-to-day operations of an esports team or organization. They manage everything from recruitment to budget management, ensuring that the team runs smoothly and efficiently. These professionals must have a solid understanding of the esports industry and be able to make informed decisions.
Business Careers in Esports
Evsports is not just about playing games, but it is also a business. There are several business-related careers in the industry, including marketing, sponsorships, and event management.
Marketing and Sponsorship Managers
Marketing and sponsorship managers are integral to the success of the esports industry by promoting and acquiring sponsorships for events and teams. Their role is crucial in elevating the industry and increasing its visibility to a wider audience. In order to be successful in this field, these professionals must possess a comprehensive understanding of the esports industry and the ability to develop strong relationships with companies and organizations. Marketing and sponsorship managers might secure sponsorships with companies like Intel, Coca-Cola, Samsung, and Red Bull for large-scale esports events. They may also work with teams to secure individual sponsorships with brands like Logitech, HyperX, and others. The goal is to form mutually beneficial partnerships that bring value to both the sponsors and the esports industry as a whole. Effective marketing and sponsorship managers must be creative, strategic, and have a deep understanding of the target audience and the brands they are representing.
Event Managers
Event managers plan and organize large-scale esports tournaments and events like The International Dota 2 Championships, League of Legends World Championships, Fortnite World Cup, and the Overwatch League Grand Finals. They work with teams, venues, and sponsors to ensure that everything runs smoothly and the events are successful. Event managers must have exceptional project management skills and be able to effectively communicate with various stakeholders.
Getting Involved
If you’re interested in pursuing a career in esports, there are several ways to get started. The first step is to familiarize yourself with the industry and the various career paths available. You can start by playing games, watching live streams and tournaments, and reading industry news and blogs. Networking is also crucial in the esports industry, so be sure to attend events and connect with professionals in the field. For those interested in becoming a professional gamer, participating in tournaments and improving your skills is essential. If you’re looking for a place to start, Metro is a growing team, and has weekly events for you to attend. If you’d like to know more about Metro’s events and team, check out our website.
