People always tell me, “it’s hard to make it in the sports world, but once you do, you’re in for life,” and I am a firm believer in this statement. Listening to numerous stories from our Center’s co-director, Tom McMillan, when you work in sports, you can constantly reinvent yourself. The job changes all the time, and you can choose to change with it.
But, how can an undergraduate student make it? The obvious answer, that I’m sure everyone has already told you, is to network and make connections. You never know who you’re going to meet. It can be the manager at your part-time job, the person you’re sitting next to on the bus, or maybe even your best friend’s dad. You never know who that someone could be. Take a chance, and start a conversation. When you build your network, the opportunities are endless. Plus, how many times has someone told you, “It’s not about what you know, it’s who you know.”? Well, let me be the first to tell you that the statement is true.
But, I have also learned of another great way to explore the industry. Have you ever heard of the online recruiting system called TeamWork Online? If not, this is a website where job-seekers can go to find employment opportunities in sports and live events. With over 750 brand-name employers, TeamWork Online is the perfect place to start looking for your way into the industry. From baseball to soccer, and hockey to golf, TeamWork Online has jobs and internships for every major league team and minor league affiliate, plus arena operations. All you have to do is create a profile and upload your resume. It’s that simple. Every day the website is constantly refreshing to inform job-seekers of new positions available. If you see one that interests you, or when you get notifications based on your interest or skill level, apply. You may or may not get contacted, but it’s always worth a shot.
The best part about TeamWork Online is that it is free for Point Park University students. If you register through your college, you automatically have student access. As a student in the Sports, Arts, and Entertainment Management program, it is a requirement to graduate with at least one internship. I, personally, have been applying to numerous positions on TeamWork Online. Recently, I have been contacted by two organizations through the website for interviews. It really does work! You just have to be patient and persistent.
If there is anything that I learned through this job-searching process, it’s to follow these three steps; it’s advice you have probably heard, received, or given before, but it never hurts to hear it again:
1. Personalize Your Resume: Find something that will set you apart from the rest of the crowd.
2. Create a TeamWork Online Account: If your school has a partnership with them, utilize the free program while you can. Once you graduate, you will have to pay to access your membership.
3. Keep an Open-Mind: Don’t ever walk into a situation narrow-minded, or think you only need to apply for that one dream internship or job because nothing ever turns out the way you planned.
Now, I’m going to be honest here. Yes, employers look at your educational background and degree. But, what employers really look for is the in-field experience you had that makes you the most qualified candidate for the position. That is why TeamWork Online is going to be crucial in your job search. When you’re in, you’re in. But, first you need to get in.
http://www.teamworkonline.com/
By: Jessica Martin
Sophomore Sports, Arts, and Entertainment Management Major/Accounting Minor
Student Advisory Board Member