SPORTS CAREERS: Resumes, interviews and thank-you notes

by Rick Wilson
rick@sportsworkers.com

Let’s face it, many of you have invested thousands of dollars on your college education and were strapped while in college – what is a few more months? NEVER PANIC! Do not take the first job that comes along, hang in there and hold out until you get that job you set your sights on. Do not give up and always be persistent.

Like above, you can struggle a few more months financially. Use any extra income to invest in yourself. Spend the money needed for that suit (or wardrobe), some stationery, a computer to get that resume nice and neat, travel to interviews, etc. Do not hold out and do not be shy! Remember you need to bet big in order to win big! This may be the missing link between you and your dream job.

Never underestimate the power of a resume! Resumes are important to get you a face-to-face interview. However, you do need more than just some schooling, grades, summer jobs and extracurricular activities listed on it. A well-written letter “personally” addressed pointing out a couple major achievements and goals (or objectives) that indicate that this letter is NOT part of one of a mass mailing could be the answer. Also, take your time to do any related research or investigative reporting. Find out the correct spelling and appropriate contacts prior to writing a personal (or even a mass mailing) letter. There is nothing worse than receiving a letter (and resume) addressed to the previous position holder or a letter filled with typos and grammatical errors. Remember take your time, get it right and do not rush to get the letter out. Only send it when it feels and looks perfect to you.

Never, ever enter an interview unless you know the company like the back of your hand, or well enough to talk about in confidence. Basically the more you know about the company in which you are interviewing with the better you are prepared and the more space you put between you and another potential employee (who may not have done the homework you did). Never ask about the company while in an interview! You may not know everything, but with all the technology, libraries, newspapers, etc. you can find out a lot about nearly every company – DO some research and be impressive while in the interview by displaying your knowledge of the company when you can.

Always get another contact name prior to leaving any interview. The more people you know and talk to, the better your chances that one of them may have an opening or know of someone that does or will. Again, do not be shy!

Following an interview always write thank you notes to everyone who helps you. This is a nice gesture, and it places your name and information again in front of them – keeping it in their minds. Who knows? Something may have just popped up or they may keep you in mind if they run into something in the future just because of your kindness – you never know.

This last little tip is something that many of us can’t do (unless you have won the lottery and just want to break into the industry for fun)...work for absolutely NOTHING! The younger generation is who should take advantage of this when they find that company they want to work for, hoping that it will lead them into something bigger and better down the line. It will get your foot in the door, allow you to show what you can do and will help you find out if this is what you really want to do. And before long I guarantee that your employer will eventually give in and pay you something, and boom – you are now on the payroll and can be proud of yourself and your efforts. Do not be shy – go for what you want!

If you would like more tips and advice please let me know anytime. You may contact me at rick@sportsworkers.com.