For nearly 15 years I have been blessed to work as a lawyer in professional sports. From 2000 through 2010, I was a labor attorney for the Major League Baseball Players Association. In November 2010, I started my own consulting practice where I continue to work in sports in various capacities. In addition to working on contract issues and other matters for some of the top agents and players in Major League Baseball, I have also assisted the National Hockey League Players’ Association in grievance arbitration and salary arbitration and have worked on a number of high profile sports-related projects. I count myself fortunate for all of the opportunities and experiences that have and continue to come my way. Now, I’d like to help you and others fulfill their dream of building a career in sports.
See this week’s second installment of my five part series of tips to help you GET IN THE GAME!
Tip #2: Be More Than A Fan
Over the years, I have interviewed a number of students and young professionals desiring to enter the sports industry. As a lawyer working in professional sports, I cannot tell you how many times some eager applicant told me how much they love the game, watch the game, play the game. While being a fan of the game is to be expected, when applying for work in the sports industry remember that potential employers are not looking for fans, they’re looking for people who can contribute to the success of their business. Your interest and knowledge of the game can be helpful, but don’t hang your hat solely on that. Be prepared to show how you can combine your interest with other relevant skills, abilities or experiences that you have had along the way. Remember, the games are on the field, court or ice. The fans are in the stands. Those who are working on the business side of things are behind the scenes – in suites, in offices, on the Internet, in the community, on the air. In such places, your fan interest alone won’t cut it. You’re going to have to bring skills that make a difference. Which leads us to our next tip …
Stay tuned next week for part three. And if you missed Tip #1, be sure to check it out here.
If you have a particular question on your mind that goes beyond the topics covered here, feel free to contact me by e-mail at info@fannell.com or Tweet me @JeffFannell.