Typically it seems that the business and gaming worlds keep a distance between them. Management says that playing video games is a distraction, promotes laziness and reduces employee productivity. But several studies seem to suggest otherwise. A recent study published by the American Psychological Association (APA) shows that there are actually many business skills that can be obtained by playing video games. These benefits include health, social skills, business skills and more. In this article, we will take a look at the top 5 business skills that workers can obtain from playing video games.
Plays well with others
Teamwork is essential to any organization’s success, and employees that know how to work together to get projects completed in an efficient and timely manner will always be needed in a business environment.
One of the best examples of how video games can influence business is the surge in popularity of massively multiplayer online (MMO) games. Typical MMO games allow users to play on an online server with a multitude of other players. Players can play as an individual, or join or create teams, and then compete against other players in order to effectively overcome obstacles, complete tasks and “grow” their character. This creates skills of working with others that can carry over to a business environment to create better results faster and in a more efficient manner.
Memory
A recent study has shown that playing video games increases brain activity by providing intensive brain training that expands memory. It also states that current research is being performed to see how the effects of video games on brain activity can be used for new treatments for degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease.
In a fast-paced workplace, memory is essential. Forgotten appointments and other lapses can lead to business loss and negative time management. On the other hand, enhanced memory can lead to increased efficiency and higher productivity.
Solve problems quickly
According to this study, gamers that play thinking and logic games that include puzzles, brain teasers, etc. tend to be able to solve problems more efficiently. This can be a major asset in the work place where problems must be resolved immediately in order to prevent them from becoming major disasters within the company.
Multitasking
Many games require users to split their attention between multiple tasks simultaneously. In action games for instance, you may have to pay attention to other players which may attack you while performing other acts such as going to the store, driving, etc. And if being attacked in shooter games, users must be able to switch weapons quickly while avoiding the attack. In a business environment, multitaskers can excel. Workers that can perform multiple tasks at the same time will most likely be given preference when it’s time for promotions and important roles within the company. And studies have shown that video games promote multitasking skills.
Management
Many games require players to make decisions that affect an entire team of players. How other players respond to these decisions can determine whether this player remains leader. Management skills can be learned from a variety of types of games which place players into specific situations where they must make tough decisions in order to survive or attain a specific goal. These decision-making skills transfer into the workplace where decisions can positively affect business productivity and employee efficiency.
