Creating and scaling high-performing teams is a critical challenge in the iGaming industry. Dmitry Belianin, an industry expert with extensive experience in building teams from a handful of individuals to hundreds, shares key insights into what makes a team truly successful. From establishing clear goals to creating a strong company culture, Dmitry provides a roadmap for building high-functioning teams in this dynamic sector.
Establishing Clear Goals and Alignment
A successful team begins with clearly defined goals that everyone understands and aligns with. “Where you are going, what you are doing, and how you are doing it should be crystal clear to everyone,” Dmitry explains. Without a shared understanding, even the best-set goals lose their effectiveness.
To achieve alignment, leaders must ensure that:
- Goals are well-communicated across all levels
- Each team member understands their role in achieving these objectives
- Regular check-ins help keep progress on track
Effective Reporting and Feedback Systems
Handling large teams requires efficient reporting structures to stay informed without micromanaging. Dmitry stresses the importance of building a structured reporting framework that connects people and aligns efforts with overarching goals.
“Running a team of 100 people without a clear reporting structure is impossible,” he says. A well-designed framework enables leaders to track progress, identify bottlenecks, and celebrate successes effectively.
Feedback is another essential component of team performance. Timely and honest feedback allows teams to address issues proactively and create a culture of continuous improvement. Dmitry highlights the importance of providing both positive reinforcement and constructive criticism to keep teams motivated and engaged.
Scaling Teams While Maintaining Performance
As businesses expand, scaling teams without compromising performance becomes a significant challenge. Dmitry recommends a functional structure in the early stages, where roles are clearly defined by specialisation. As the company grows, a divisional structure may be more effective, allowing for cross-functional collaboration and greater agility.
“The smaller the team, the faster the decision-making process,” he notes. However, as organisations scale, a divisional approach enables different units to focus on specific goals without affecting the entire business.
Building Teams in New Markets
Expanding into new markets, especially those with limited local iGaming experience, requires a strategic approach. Dmitry advises leaders to identify talent from related industries such as fintech, telecommunications, and online dating, where skillsets are often transferable.
Beyond recruitment, structured training and onboarding programs are essential. Dmitry recommends providing new hires with detailed guides and industry resources to bridge knowledge gaps and accelerate their learning curve. “Education is key to integrating new talent into the industry,” he emphasises.
Enhancing Industry Training and Education
Continuous learning is vital in iGaming, where trends and regulations evolve rapidly. Dmitry highlights several effective ways to stay informed and improve performance:
- Industry reports that provide insights into the strategies of leading companies
- Podcasts featuring industry experts sharing valuable experiences
- Conferences and networking events where professionals can exchange knowledge and ideas
“Don’t be afraid to ask questions and engage with industry veterans,” he advises, sharing his own experience of learning valuable insights from casual conversations at events.
Sustaining Long-Term Success
Building high-performing teams in the iGaming industry requires a strategic approach, from setting clear goals and implementing effective reporting systems encouraging continuous education and a strong company culture. By applying these principles, leaders can create teams that thrive in a fast-paced, competitive environment.
.svg)
