Women in gaming: Overcoming gender barriers in the affiliate world
Mary Ivanova, affiliates director at 7StarsPartners, talks about the barriers still faced by women in the affiliate market, what more can be down to reduce them and shares advice for the industry’s up-and-coming female professionals
Today, women in the gambling industry are sharing their experiences more and more often. One topic, however, receives less attention – the specific challenges and opportunities that exist for women in the affiliate sector.
I consider myself very lucky to work in the affiliate sector because nowadays it’s an environment where, in general, people are treated equally, regardless of their gender. If an affiliate manager is results-oriented, adaptable and on hand to help customers, then that should be enough to succeed.
Too often, however, that is not the case for women. I’ve observed far too many instances where women are not taken seriously as decision makers, particularly in senior positions.
Unfortunately, some people find it difficult to believe that women are just as capable of overseeing large budgets, taking full responsibility for an affiliate-operator relationship, and managing their own team as men.
Being one of igaming’s most important sectors, the affiliates market must lead the way when it comes to ensuring gender equality.
In order to break down barriers, women should not only be encouraged to pursue a career in the affiliate market, but also to share their insights and opinions when they do so. With the right experience, knowledge, and, most importantly, a drive to constantly improve the quality of your output, companies should assess your skills without taking gender into consideration.
Self-evidently, however, much of the onus also falls on men. Male colleagues in the affiliate sector need to do everything they can to ensure that women are treated equally. The outbreak of Covid-19 has served to demonstrate women’s strength in the face of adversity, given that the financial burden has disproportionately fallen on those with children.
In the gambling industry and beyond, individuals who fail to promote gender equality in and out of the workplace must abandon their prejudices. Self-evidently, colleagues should be assessed based on their work ethic, ability and professional track-record, with gender not playing any role.
Taking inspiration
I strongly believe that women should have the same chance as their male counterparts to be successful in the gaming industry, and I continue to be inspired by the women in gaming who have taken leadership positions.
My advice to every woman currently pursing, or considering pursuing, a career in the affiliate sector would be as follows: work hard, don’t be afraid to express your opinions and never shy away from showcasing your achievements. Treat people with respect, never give up on your objectives and step-by-step your goals will become a reality.
The number of talented, dedicated and highly successful women I encounter working in the affiliate sector makes me optimistic for the future of women in our industry. I anticipate that my four gifted female colleagues at 7StarsPartners, for example, will go very far indeed.
Mary Ivanova is affiliate director at 7StarsPartners. Having studied the romance languages and literature at Kyiv National Linguistics University, Ivanova has spent three years at 7StarsPartners, starting as a senior affiliate manager before becoming affiliate director.