With so many exciting careers available to people, it can be extremely hard to narrow down your options. Finding that one career that you feel passionate and excited about can be a long process of trying different things first, or it may be something that you’ve dreamed about for years.
If becoming a sports agent is your version of a dream career, then there’s no doubt you understand just how competitive it is. It’s only natural to ask yourself whether you have what it takes to be successful in the industry. Well, before you put all your cards in, here are some considerations you can mull over which will help you figure out if you’re cut out for the career.
Understand the Job
Before you go all in and set your sights on the career path, it’s important that you understand what a sports agent does. Yes, they work with professional athletes, but there is more to it than just that. It will be up to you to negotiate contracts and terms for your client – the athlete. Your goal will always be to look out for the athlete’s best interest.
You’ll be negotiating with endorsers, sponsors, and sports teams. You’ll need to know the ins and outs of contracts, which is why some sports managers find it helpful to have a law degree. While these degrees aren’t always necessary, they can give you the upper hand and if you don’t have one you should partner with a specialist law firm. Why not contact us for guidance as to the stipulations and qualifications that a sports agent need?
The Job Can Be High Stress
It’s also important to note that the job can be very fast-paced and high-stress. Contracts, negotiations, and issues don’t always occur during the regular business hours, so don’t expect this job to be a typical Monday through Friday, 9am-5pm type of gig. Your client could contact you at any time with an issue, as could the sports team, sponsor, etc. You need to be able to jump into action whenever needed.
Have Excellent Selling Skills
Even though you may not think of yourself as a sales person when you are a sports agent, there is a big element of sales involved. Rather than selling a product, you are selling the services of the athlete, if you will. You need to promote that athlete, make their skills well-known, and prove to people why they need your athlete and why they are worth the big bucks.
Work Your Communication and Problem-Solving Skills
Communication and problem-solving skills aren’t something that you can always learn, instead they tend to be skills and traits you already possess. If you’re the type that can stay cool under pressure, figure out a plan of action, and have superior written and verbal communication skills, then you are likely going to be much more successful in the job.
Following your dream is something that can not only bring you job success, it can provide you with a real sense of achievement.