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Patience pays off

Writer's picture: sward7049sward7049

Hi friends,


Sam here. If you're reading this, you're likely on the thrilling yet sometimes bumpy path toward landing a job in the sports world. And if you're anything like me, you've probably heard the phrase "just be patient" more times than you can count. Meghan and I have lost track of the number of conversations we've had with friends and mentors in the same situation, and we always make sure to remind everyone that you are not alone! Everyone looking for a job in sports can feel lost, discouraged, or frustrated. Meghan and I have shared all of those feelings! 


Heck, when I graduated from college, I thought it would be so easy to land a full-time role, especially since I had completed two awesome internships with ESPN and even got paid to travel with College GameDay. But nope. It took me months, and it felt like an eternity. While it might feel like a never-ending game of waiting, trust me—patience isn't just a virtue, it's a game-changer. Let's dive into why holding on and hanging in there will eventually lead you to the perfect opportunity. To anyone out there struggling with those feelings, here's a quick encouraging read to remind you to focus on what you can control, know that you're never alone, and believe that the right job will come. Trust us!


First, let’s acknowledge the elephant in the room: being told to "just be patient" can be incredibly frustrating. You’ve put in the hard work, the late nights, the networking events, and the relentless pursuit of your passion. You’ve sent out countless resumes, nailed (and sometimes bombed) interviews, and yet, that dream job still feels just out of reach. It’s easy to feel disheartened but remember, every single step you take is bringing you closer to that golden opportunity. 


Breaking into the sports industry is no small feat. It’s a competitive field with many aspiring professionals vying for a limited number of positions. But that’s also what makes it so exciting! The sports industry is dynamic, full of passion, and constantly evolving. Patience isn't about waiting idly by—it's about preparing yourself, staying ready, and continually honing your skills so that when the right opportunity comes, you can seize it with both hands.


While you’re being patient, focus on what you can control—your skills and experiences. Volunteer, intern, or take on part-time opportunities related to sports. These experiences not only bolster your resume but also provide invaluable insights and connections. Keep learning and growing. Take courses in sports management, marketing, or any area that interests you. The more you know, the more versatile and attractive you become to potential employers.


Networking is a powerful tool in your job search arsenal. Attend industry events, join sports-related groups on social media, and don't hesitate to reach out to professionals in the field. A simple LinkedIn message or a chat over coffee can open doors you didn’t even know existed. Networking isn't just about finding a job—it's about building relationships that can lead to long-term career growth.


It’s important to remember that not every job is the right job for you. Sometimes, what seems like a setback is a blessing in disguise. If a position doesn’t come through, it might be because there’s something even better waiting for you. Trust the process. The right job, with the right team, in the right environment, will come. And when it does, you’ll see how every moment of patience was worth it.


Look at the trailblazers who’ve made it in the sports industry. Many of them faced numerous rejections and periods of uncertainty. Serena Williams didn’t become a tennis legend overnight. Michael Jordan was cut from the varsity team in high school. Their journeys were filled with ups and downs, but their patience and perseverance paid off. Your journey might be different, but the principle remains the same: patience and persistence are key.


When you finally land that dream job, it will all be worth it! All the waiting, the hard work, the learning, and the growing will culminate in that one exhilarating moment. You’ll look back and realize that the timing was perfect and that every step along the way prepared you for this role. And you’ll be ready to take the sports world by storm.


So to all the amazing women out there chasing their dreams in the sports industry: Keep going. Be patient. Your time is coming. The sports world needs your passion, your talent, and your unique perspective. And when the right opportunity comes, you’ll be ready to shine brighter than ever. Keep the faith, stay strong, and remember—patience does pay off, you’re awesome and you belong here!




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