5 Tips To Standout At A Sports Career Fair

When you’re hungry to get a job in sports, there’s nothing more exciting than finding out about a sports career fair. Everything runs through your mind about how this event could change your life, if you make the right connection. What sucks is, showing up to find out everyone in town heard about it and is thinking the same thing. Ain’t that a b*tch!

So the question is, how do you set yourself apart from everyone to leave a lasting impression on a potential employer?

1. Dress to impress

This shouldn’t need to be mentioned, but unfortunately it does. Dress to stand out… in a good way. No worries if fashion isn’t your thing, skim through GQ or InStyle to get some stylish tips on business attire.

The importance of looking good should never be compromised. You’re already up against the world, don’t add yourself to the opposition.

2. Elevator pitch

Think of yourself as a salesperson and the product you are selling is you. When opportunities present themselves (which won’t be many), you must be prepared with a clear message you want to convey to a potential employer. Your elevator pitch will be the catalyst to an engaging conversation and hopefully your next job.

A quick pitch should include:

    • Who you are
    • What you do or school you attend/major
    • Why you are in attendance
      • It’s obvious you’re there for a job, but be more specific. For example, “I write for my school paper and I’m here to find potential sports writing opportunities.”
    • Ask for the sale in the form of advice
      • For example, “Are you aware of any opportunities in my field or acquainted with someone I should talk with that could give me advice on getting more sports writing experience?”

3. Business Card

It’s probably safe to guess that the majority of attendees at a job fair don’t have a business card on them. That leaves the perfect opportunity for you to stand out if you do. Putting a tangible reminder in the hands of potential employer will help them recall who you are after a long day of shaking hands and kissing babies. You will more than likely ask recruiters for their card, so it’s a nice touch to give them one in return.

If you don’t have business cards through your job or school, try creating some that are personally branded which works just as well. Consider adding the basics to it, such as your name, number, email address (keep your address simple: firsname.lastname@gmail), customized LinkedIn URL, and ONLY if you are using social media as a professional outlet, include your social handle.

4. Connect via LinkedIn

Most employers are on LinkedIn, which means you should be too. Take the opportunity to ask if you can connect via LinkedIn. This will give you the opportunity to follow up after the event and showcase your credentials.

5. Digital Resume

This is a career fair, so you’ll probably want to bring your resume. But if you want to take your game to the next level include a USB flash drive that has the digital version of your resume with links to your website, portfolio, or other supporting materials. It’s always the small things that make the biggest difference…

These are just a few things that can help leave a lasting impression. If you have other ideas or experiences, please feel free to share…

Photo Credit: Ballers. HBO/2015 Home Box Office, Inc.