Why Sports Industry "Experience" is Overrated: Two Things That Matter More

I'm about to drop a bomb on the whole notion that says you need "experience" in sports to get a job in sports. You don't!

That's only true if you're trying to get a job that requires you to wear a team uniform.

Now don't get me wrong. Experience in sports does help. Especially if you've worked (or interned) for a high-profile team like the Yankees or an agency like IMG. Mainly because--on paper--you'll stand out (a little) from the competition.

Plus, employers know that if you've suited up for a well-known sports brand like ESPN or Nike, you've been through some type of rigorous "approval" process and there's a chance you may have something special to offer.

So, yes, there is a slight edge with "experience" in sports.

However, when pursuing a sports career, there is one thing that trumps "sports experience" every single time. What is it? Talent. God-given, truly blessed, unstoppable talent.

Ever heard someone say they'd hire a "hard worker" over talent. Well, they're full of crap. Or insecure. And they definitely don't have to answer to shareholders. Or answer to rabid fans.

To prove this point, just look at the side of sports that's played between the lines. That's where the money's made. And it's filled with 100 percent pure talent. Yes, some work harder than others. But you can't teach 7-ft. Or a 4.2 forty. Or a 90 mph fastball. You either have "it" or you don't.

What Employers Really Want

Sports employers want two things when evaluating candidates. First, they want to build their organizations with the most talented men and women they can find. That's the starting point. After that, it comes down to who they like more.

That's right, it comes down to a freakin' popularity contest! Can you believe it? It's true. Here's how it works: after you've been recognized as having "it" (read: talent) and you've been thru the grueling rounds of interviews with various executives within the organization, they will all get together and vote. That's right, you'll either stay on the island or get booted off.

And more often than not, likability trumps talent.

What You Can Do About It

Here's the thing: smart sports job hunters know what their true talent is. Leaders know they are leaders. Accountants know they're anal. And artists know they're weird. The good thing about sports is, it takes all kinds. And the great thing about humans is, we're all born with talent. God is good like that.

So here's the take away on Talent: 1) Discover it; and 2) Attach it to a position within the industry. (If you're not sure what your talent is, stay tuned. We'll tackle "discovery" in another post. Same with "positions.")

Now for Likability: 1) Don't be a jackass; 2) Be yourself; and 3) Remember it's what you can do for the company, not the other way around.

The bottom line is this: link your passion with your talent. Then go find someone to pay you to do it. That's what it's all about.

In your corner,

Chris McKinney
The Sports Career Coach™