Creating Opportunities and Advancement for Women in the Gaming Industry With Joanie Kraut

Joanie Kraut is the CEO at Women In Gaming International, a platform dedicated to cultivating resources for advancing economic equality and diversity in the global games industry. She has offered her talents in various tech and gaming verticals, including consulting studios, startups, and nonprofits. Joanie is a thought leader in finance, DEI, and the advancement of women in leadership. In 2019, CalCPA recognized her with the Women to Watch in Finance & Accounting, Experienced Leader Award, and in 2020, GCIF and Prism Events named her the Top 100 Global Leaders in Finance. Joanie was also recognized by CEO Monthly as the Most Influential CEO of 2022 and named the Top 50 Women Leaders of Los Angeles by Women We Admire in 2023. In this episode… Women have been omitted from the gaming industry's history for years, making up less than 24% of the workforce. Meanwhile, females account for 48% of the gaming community, proving that women are interested in working in the field. How can the recruitment of women in gaming improve? After participating in numerous panel discussions on women in gaming, Joanie Kraut founded Women in International Gaming, providing free resources to a global community of 38,000 members in 78 countries. WIGI operates over 90 workshops, panels, programs, and initiatives, including Get in the Program, which has a 90% successful recruiting rate. The initiative helps participants craft resumes, cover letters, and portfolios. Additionally, it helps them polish their interview skills and introduces the women to a network of seasoned industry professionals. Joanie shares that while drafting well-written CVs is vital, applicants must work on their personal brand by cleaning up their social media. She suggests posting accomplishments and accolades such as earned degrees, certificates, and relevant events you've attended that illustrate your dedication to the industry. In this episode of the Here's Waldo Podcast with Lizzie Mintus, she talks to Joanie Kraut, CEO at Women in Gaming International (WIGI), about the advancement of women in the tech and gaming industry. Joanie discusses WIGI's Get in the Game initiative, tips for building a personal brand and overcoming imposter syndrome, and career advancement strategies.