There is no better time to make your career transition into the business of sport. Due to new emerging sectors such as E-sports which grew revenue to a staggering $1.5billion over the last year, the global sports industry continues to be one of the fastest growing markets. This calls for functional skills and talent that goes beyond sports, and being an experienced professional in a different field can position you strongly to transfer into this dynamic and exciting sector.
Here are 3 simple tips to ensure that you are best equipped to make a successful transition.
#1 – Networking
Effective networking and ability to form relationships across different industry sectors is vitally important when exploring changes in your career but even more so in the sports industry. Developing and increasing your professional networks not only brings about potential career opportunities, but also deepens your understanding of the industry and provides contacts that can assist with your transition. Our advice is to attend relevant industry networking events and conferences that are in line with your interests. There are many sports specific industry events that take place annually across Australia and New Zealand. Search what industry events are coming up in your city and follow business of sport specific groups and publications who will keep you informed of upcoming events. Identify and build relationships with key influencers within the business of sports sector.
#2 – Develop Your Personal Brand
Your narrative is important in how you present yourself to potential organisations and developing a compelling profile can ease your transition from another industry into sports. Keep your LinkedIn profile up-to-date and highlight your qualifications and skillsets that the industry is targeting for.
Shape your profile by writing blogs and get exposure to sports-related events or insights to build credibility and appeal your personality and outlook to your potential employer. This also helps them to understand you not only as a professional figure but also strengthens your profile. Build your professional connections through LinkedIn, follow organisations and brands that you would like to work for and sign up to job opportunities through their website to get an immediate head start.
#3 – Identify & Promote your Point of Difference and Value
Identify your key strengths and unique points of difference. As the business of sport continues to evolve and become more professional and international, it will need to identify and secure talent from other industry sectors and markets. By understanding the value of your unique skills and experience, you will be able to communicate them effectively to the organisations you are targeting. Don’t forget about your soft skills. The sports sector is people orientated so being able to compliment and add value to the organisation and company culture is highly valued.
What’s my next step?
Get started! This means signing up to news platforms, subscribing to newsletters and feeds, listening to industry leaders, read up on blogs and make sure you are on job alerts with Global Elite Sports to get the latest career opportunities that are targeted to your interest and skill set.