You've spent the majority of your life focused on your sport. Day in and day out, nights and weekends, and summers all had a priority: to get better, play more, and advance to the next level physically and mentally for the game. You received a scholarship for your hard work, stayed eligible throughout school, and graduated. Congrats! Now you've hung up your cleats, sneakers, or goggles, and you realize you've worked very little off the field and missed out on internships due to season schedules and availability. You're entering into the job market feeling a little unprepared and inexperienced. For the first time in a long time, you are going to a "tryout" as a newbie, and it's nerve-racking!
Trust me, we've all been there. As a former athlete and former HR manager, I have some ways you can stand out amongst the crowd and highlight some experiences I guarantee you are overlooking.
You Are Still That Girl
First, we need a little pep talk. We can't build a resume, apply for jobs, or tap into our network feeling insecure or uncertain. The fact that you were a collegiate athlete speaks volumes. Hiring managers and recruiters love seeing sports on a candidate's resume. It often brings you to the top of the pile. Even with little to no job-related experience, they know you're likely a good hire due to your athletic background. Own that, know that, believe that.
Know Your Strengths
Coaches and parents mention how sports prepare you for life, but we rarely discuss the how. Here are some strengths most athletes have gained over the years:
teamwork
working well under pressure
sense of urgency
critical thinking
leadership
communication
reliability
time management
discipline
commitment
motivation
Recognize Your Experience
Think of sport as a job you've had since childhood. It's been a fun job, sure, but a job nonetheless.
You have been dedicated to something for at least a decade, right? *whispers, "Put that on your resume."
You know how to abide by a strenuous schedule week after week, right? *whispers again, "Put that on your resume."
You're highly experienced in working on a team, managing multiple projects (school, sport, tutoring, and social), following through on goals and objectives (eligibility and success in your sport), and experienced traveler (understands how to plan, prioritize, and execute while on the road). *I'm no longer whispering, "Put that on your resume!!"
Entering into the job market, and the world, for that matter, will show you how much you've gained as an athlete and how you are well prepared for any job in any industry.
コメント