2019 COSIDA JOB SEEKERS PRIMER - Amazon S3...2019/06/06 · 2019 CoSIDA Job Seekers Committee Primer Job Search Preparation WHAT TO DO TO PREPARE 1. Build or update your resume. 2

2019 CoSIDA Job Seekers Committee Primer

2019 COSIDA JOB SEEKERS PRIMER

What is Job Seekers?The CoSIDA Job Seekers committee was formed to assist qualified CoSIDA candidates to find employment within collegiate athletics communications and to assist employers in finding qualified candidates to fill open positions.

Each year at CoSIDA’s annual convention the committee hosts the Career Center: Job Seekers Session. This session is devoted to all those looking for an athletics communications position. We have prepared this handout on job seeking in this field. If you have any questions about a particular subject, please ask or feel free to contact the writer.

Table of ContentsWhat is Job Seekers?/Committee Roster/Table of Contents ............................................................................................................................................. Page 1Job Search Preparation/What Job Seekers Should Know ............................................................................................................................................ Pages 2-5#GetSET Approach to Job Seeking .................................................................................................................................................................................. Pages 6-7Listening is a Crucial Skill .................................................................................................................................................................................................... Page 8Standing Out on Social Media For Better or Worse ................................................................................................................................................... Pages 9-10Using the Internet & Social Media in the Application Process ..................................................................................................................................... Page 11Gaining Traction in an Ever-Changing Industry ..................................................................................................................................................... Pages 12-13The Application Process - How to Stand Out From the Crowd/ Job Seeking and ‘The Bot’ - Friend or Foe .................................................. Pages 14-15How to Utilize Your References During the Job Seeking Process ................................................................................................................................. Page 16Best Practices for a Video Interview .................................................................................................................................................................................. Page 17One-on-One, Group and Phone Interviews .............................................................................................................................................................. Pages 18-1910 Questions to Expect During an Interview for an Intern or GA Position ................................................................................................................ Page 205 Questions Not to Ask During an Interview for an Intern or GA Position ................................................................................................................ Page 21Creating Your Path in the Business ............................................................................................................................................................................ Pages 22-23How to Close the Deal & Get the Job ......................................................................................................................................................................... Pages 24-25Breaking Into the Profession ....................................................................................................................................................................................... Pages 26-27Changing Jobs in the Sports Information Profession ............................................................................................................................................... Pages 28-29How To Make Social Media Fun ................................................................................................................................................................................ Pages 30-32The Importance of Mentors ......................................................................................................................................................................................... Pages 33-34

Committee RosterDanny Kambel (Chairperson) PacificJustin Maskus (Vice-Chair) Missouri Southern St.John Kean (CoSIDA Board Liaison) Missouri S&TMarissa Avanzato Texas A&MDavid Castellanos UMBCLisa Champagne NESCACDoug DeBiase CACCLawrence Fan San Jose StateBen Greenberg WebsterMaddie Heaps Eastern MichiganKeonte’ Herrera Texas StateShelby Hild Illinois StateTravis Jarome Alabama StateDavid Johnson UW-La CrosseJennifer Jones Birmingham-SouthernMichael Kobylanski UConn Avery PointTom Kolbe TampaMatthew Lofton CentenaryMatt McCollester RichmondAlyssa OlvedaMark Rivera San FranciscoMorgan Romans VanderbiltKyle ScholzenMike Tuberosa Drexel


Job Search Preparation

WHAT TO DO TO PREPARE1. Build or update your resume.2. Assess your skills and experience and highlight them on your resume.3. Narrow down what kind of position you are looking for or best fits your skills.4. Assess the job market and available positions via word-of-mouth and online postings at www.CoSIDA.com or www.ncaa.org5. Research available job postings such as using a cost of living calculator to compare your current region to a prospective region.6. Prepare yourself for success or failure in the process.7. Don’t be discouraged if you do not land the job on the first try.8. Keep a positive attitude during the job search ... Don’t Give Up! RELATED JOBS THAT PROVIDE GOOD BACKGROUND1. Writing Experience (i.e., newspaper writer, editor, columnist, publicist, magazine writer)2. Publication Experience (i.e., graphic designer, yearbook editor, photographer)3. Broadcast Experience (i.e., television anchor, television reporter, radio deejay, play-by-play an-nouncer)4. Internet Experience (i.e., website content editor, website designer) KEEPING A FOOT IN THE DOOR1. Network, network, network.2. Attend conventions and seminars to continue your professional development.3. Be involved in committees or forums. Get your name out there and meet new people.4. Stay in contact with people you have met through networking.5. Continue to build relationships with these people.6. Stay in the know of what positions are out there or may open up. SHARPENING YOUR SKILLS1. Take summer courses to enhance your writing, communication or graphic design skills.2. Continue to build good working relationships with coaches, administrators and the media.3. Staying abreast to new trends in the field.4. Challenge yourself to learning new ideas or methods.5. Evaluate what is or isn’t working in your current situation and needs to be changed.

by Marlene NavorDirector of AthleticCommunications

College of CharlestonEmail: [email protected]


Job Search Preparationby Marlene NavorDirector of AthleticCommunications


HOW TO ASK A PERSON TO BE A REFERENCE1. Select your references carefully. Know what your selected references will say about you.2. Ask someone you have built a good relationship or rapport with such as a recent boss, recent co-worker, recent administrator, coach or media member.3. Ask someone who has a true knowledge of your work skills and attributes.4. Ask someone who will praise and backup your quality of work.5. Once your reference list is selected, contact them well in advance of your job search.6. Ask permission to use them as a reference via phone or e-mail correspondence.7. If they say yes, give them a brief background of the position you are applying for.8. Unless you keep in touch with them on a regular basis, make sure to refresh their memory of the previous working relationship you had with them and projects you successfully completed.9. If a letter of recommendation is needed, ask your reference if they would be able to write a personal letter on your behalf to your prospective employer.10. Depending on the timeliness of the job search and job closing date, ask your reference if they would be able to callyour prospective employer on your behalf.11. Make sure to thank your references and hopefully reciprocate the favor back to them someday.12. Follow-up with your references after you successfully get the job!

Preparing for the job market:_____ Do you have access to your academic transcripts?_____ Do you have a recent formal head & shoulders color photograph in a digital format?_____ Do you have a strong team of references lined up to advocate your candidacy?_____ Does your online presence require immediate attention?_____ Is your resume specific to the field of athletics communications?_____ Is your resume easy to read, easy to understand and error-free?_____ What does your resume say about your job history?_____ Do you have a cover letter format prepared and can it be edited to a specific job?_____ Does your cover letter complement your resume?_____ How would you grade your LinkedIn profile?_____ Does your LinkedIn profile contain your best work samples?_____ Does your LinkedIn profile complement your resume and cover letter?




Identifying job opportunities on a daily basis:_____ CoSIDA.com_____ NCAA.org_____ Teamworkonline.com (positions with professional, amateur & college teams)_____ SportsBusinessDaily.com (positions with sports-related industries and organizations)_____ www.simplyhired.com_____ Word-of-mouth The application:_____ Are you applying online or by email or regular mail?_____ Did you read the announcement thoroughly and understand the application procedure?_____ Can you meet the application deadline?_____ Can you return to an online application if it is temporarily incomplete?_____ Are you expected to provide work samples or links to work samples?_____ Do your links work seamlessly?_____ Will a human resources department positively screen your application and advance your candidacy?

The interview:_____ Whether it is a phone, online or in-person interview, do you have the proper appearance and attire?_____ If you are participating in an online interview, is your account information ready to share with the employer?_____ Will you make time to research your prospective future employer and those on the interview committee?_____ Will you be rested, refreshed and excited for the interview process?_____ Following the interview, are you prepared to send “Thank You” cards or notes?

Editor’s Note: Marlene has previously been recognized by CoSIDA for her women’s

basketball recruiting guide with a “Best in the Naton” honor.




The acceptance:_____ Are you prepared to accept immediately and without hesitation?_____ Do you need time to discuss an acceptance with a person/people important in your life?_____ Are the terms of your employment clear to you and your new employer?_____ Negotiate a mutually-agreeable start date._____ If applicable, are any of your relocation expenses covered by the new employer?_____ Will you have adequate time to find a place to live and become an established citizen in the new community?_____ Do you know how frequently (weekly or monthly) you will paid?_____ Are there any fringe benefits connected with your new position?_____ If applicable, do you know what the circumstances are to qualify for the employer’s retirement plan?_____ If applicable, do you have a plan in place to notify your current employer about taking a new position?

If you’re not the choice:_____ You may not receive a letter or notice from the employer that another candidate accepted the position._____ Remain optimistic. The job market should be active into the fall months of September through November._____ Can you focus your job seeking on other openings?


#GetSET Approach to Job SeekingSET – Strategic • Engaged • Teamwork

by Danny KambelSports Information Director

Pacific UniversityEmail:

[email protected]

Over the course of one minute on the Internet, there are 973,000 logins into Facebook, 481,000 tweets sent, 174,000 scrolling on Instagram, 2.4 million snaps created on SnapChat with all this time on social media and 187 million emails being sent, what are you doing as a job seeker to #GetSET in your job search. I came up with the #GetSET approach as an out of work, sports information professional in the fall of 2013. It is constantly being revamped and reorganized, but also been implemented in multiple ways. The premise behind SET is that one is equipped and prepared to go forward in an endeavor. Our focus for this endeavor is job seeking within intercollegiate athletics, emphasizing sports information / athletic media relations.

The first part of SET is STRATEGIC. Defining what it means to be strategic is how it relates to a general plan that is created to achieve a goal. It is easy to articulate what that goal, but the approach to the goal is where you begin to distinguish yourself as a candidate. For example, if an individual says to the word, ‘apple.’ It is a complex word with many definitions. Do you think of an IPhone? Computer? Do you think of the food in the produce aisle of your favorite grocery store. You are a BRAND. A brand is the identity of a product or a service. You have a skill set that is unique to the prospective employer. Getting your brand into the conversation for the potential employer is being strategic. Establishing a short-term and long-term goal strategy as a job seeker. What in your arsenal of skills can you work on the short-term. Do you watch a YouTube tutorial to refine your skills in Photoshop? Do you contact a colleague at a neighboring institution to

see how they write the press release to announce their new coach? Do you watch the NBA finals and practice the latest StatCrew or GeniusSports offering? As you transition into your long-term goals, are you waiting for your annual evaluation from your supervisor? Today, the average person changes jobs ten to fifteen times (with an average of 12 job changes) during his or her career. Working within your department to achieve its goals are part of the extension of your brand. How can you contribute that growth? Are you equipped with Photoshop or video skills that can help the department, in other ways beyond traditional sports information roles such as camp flyers, annual reports, Hall of Fame activities, etc. Or do you have an interest in being a sports information contact for another sport within your own department? Being able to transfer skills and apply your goals within your department makes you a more valuable employee.

The next part is to be ENGAGED. As you engage in the process, begin to ask yourself – what distinguishes you? What makes you different? We all are unique in our skill set and our personalities. As you recognize how you are unique in the process start to put that forth in your application materials. Using the same approach to your search will likely yield the same results – which is likely to be a ‘no.’ Learn through the process, give the necessary undivided attention and support. For example, early in my career, I had four interactions with a potential employer. In the final interaction, despite saying ‘No’; they shared my application materials with another opportunity. Two interviews later, I had my first ‘Yes’ with this new opportunity. Another


example is to remain in communication and collaboration within your network. Telling not only your references, but also your colleagues on your interest in opportunities. This is part of the necessary research when looking for your next employment endeavor. Coaches as well as athletic administrators tend to shift in employment just as much as sports information personnel. Keep lines of communication open and can in return open doors of employment opportunity. Lastly, learn how to engage with social media. 1 in 3 employers who research candidates on social media sites have found content that made them more likely to hire a candidate. 48% of candidates will use to social media in their search for their most recent job search.

The last part is TEAMWORK. As indicated earlier, working with your colleagues and your references is important in your search. As you go through the process, there are individuals that you should equip and educate. Your colleagues can bring forth you the necessary knowledge to organize a search and identify opportunities. Whereas your references are your support team – they are going to support any and all your endeavors. Use your online assets to help you network via telephone calls, emails, social media are all important to help you more effectively.

#GetSET Approach to Job SeekingSET – Strategic • Engaged • Teamwork

by Danny KambelSports Information Director

Pacific UniversityEmail:

[email protected]

Knowing how to create an online asset plan, for your search is important. The plan consists of making sure you have developed a strong personal brand, choosing the assets that fit with who you are and with your skills. Develop a plan of consistency and alignment. Knowing within the plan the right position that fits you – one at a time. Define this plan and link this plan to your efforts to work together in a meaningful way. The more you network; the more successful you will be.

Editor’s Notes: Danny was recognized by Pacific University in May, 2019 with its Dedication to Students

Award.

In addition to his role at Pacific, Danny also serves as the Chairperson of the Job Seekers

Committee.


Listening Is a Crucial Skill

by Greg OttDirector of Sports CommunicationsRider University

Email: [email protected]

Beginning a new job in sports information can be equal parts exciting and terrifying. It’s only natural to bring energy, exuberance and even some nerves to the job and jump in with both feet. We often don’t have any choice – I write this as someone who started my most recent job in a two-person office in which both positions were vacated simultaneously in late September prior to my early November start date. All this left me to immediately juggle crossover season, play catch up on the prior month and a half of work and hire an Assistant SID.

But the best advice I can give when starting a new job is something you might have heard from your father – listen twice as much as you speak. The old, “there’s a reason why God gave you two ears and only one mouth.”

You can do all the research you want on your new school and the sports you’ll be covering. But chances are, your audience is already acquainted with these researchable items. And it’s unlikely that you were hired for your prior knowledge of a school that you’ve yet to work at.

Be an active listener in your conversations with your new coaches, student-athletes and community. The SID’s most influential role is in promoting their teams and personnel and frequently, the best stories are unearthed simply in small talk with those around the programs. It’s in conversation with your coaches, student-athletes and fans that you’ll learn the most interesting bits of information to share with the media or for use on your school’s website and social media platforms.

Don’t feed into the narrative that most SID’s are “stat geeks,” even if many of us do enjoy some numerical back-up. The most intriguing stories I’ve promoted in my career have centered around student-athletes’ or coaches’ hardships overcome years prior to stepping foot on campus or events that took place away from the playing field. These stories are great regardless of on-field accomplishment. It should only be seen as an added bonus should a stat or two supplement the underlying story.

Start the conversation with your coaches and student-athletes and never stop listening. You never know when they’re going to hand you your next great human-interest story.


Standing Out On Social Media - For Better or Worse

by Michael KobylanskiAthletic Director

UConn Avery PointEmail: Michael.

[email protected]

Social media has progressed into a highly effective communication tool for college athletic communications professionals and athletic departments over the course of the last 10-15 years. First with MySpace, and evolving into Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Periscope, Snapchat and whatever else will be the next big thing, it is a viable resource.

However, if not used effectively, properly or abused, social media platforms can also translate into trouble.

Personally, I have slowly evolved with the times as it relates to social media. I joined Facebook in 2008, and followed with accounts on Twitter and LinkedIn in 2013.

That timeline differs slightly for the athletic department accounts at my previous institution, Southern Connecticut State University. We started an athletics Facebook page in 2009 and joined the Twitter phenomenon in 2011. Instagram was added to the menu in 2013 and Periscope and Snapchat became the newest tools in our kit over the last few academic years.

One of the first orders of business when I took over as Athletic Director at UConn Avery Point in October, 2018, was to create and operate social media accounts for our department. We immediately ventured into the Facebook, Twitter and Instagram realms, and have been received positively by our student-athletes, parents, alumni and fans since the creation of these accounts.

In this day and age, athletic communications, professionals face an ongoing and never-ending challenge – trying to be everything to everybody. What I mean by this is that the 80-year old alumnus and the 18-year old freshman want to receive and eventually process information in two extremely different ways – as are most of the subgroups in between. With that said, there certainly is crossover amongst the various social media platforms, and we must do our best to provide content to all settings to help best inform our fans at all times.

On a personal front, social media is an outstanding tool for staying connected with colleagues near and far. LinkedIn and Facebook have proven especially helpful in this regard. Furthermore, I also look at LinkedIn as essentially an extension of my résumé and professional network. As a result, I treat my posts and interactions on these platforms with the utmost care and importance.

I view Twitter through a slightly different prism. One of the common phrases in our line of work is that our student-athletes and coaches notice when you are there to support them in person, and also when you are absent. I try to utilize Twitter as a way to actively recognize the achievements of our student-athletes, coaches and teams on almost a daily basis during the academic year. This is a great way to connect directly with those groups and let them know that you can see all of the good things that they are doing.


Standing Out On Social Media - For Better or Worse



[email protected]

However, my personal Twitter account is also the platform where I will have a little more “fun”. I will joke around with colleagues about certain things. I will also provide commentary on happenings in the professional sports world, especially with my favorite teams. It’s all in good fun, it’s all clean, and it also shows a different side to my personality.

Before I close with a few recommendations for good social media usage, I did also want to bring up one other personal philosophy as it relates to all platforms – relationships with student-athletes. I have made it a practice to refrain from accepting “friend requests” or the equivalent on LinkedIn and Facebook, for example. The process is a little different on Twitter, naturally; however, on this platform I do tend to steer clear from using student-athlete handles when posting.

I know that some professionals may look at these interactions as “no big deal”. Ninety-nine times out of 100, that will probably be the case. However, I want to try to head off any possibility for issues when using social media, whether it is for personal or professional use.

TIPS FOR PERSONAL SOCIAL MEDIA ACCOUNTS:

1. Consider everything to be public – It doesn’t matter whether your account is protected or not. Maybe that employer knows a friend of a friend who does have access to your page. Also remember that a friend now could be a foe down the road and you never know if that may be leveraged against you.

2. Think before you “speak” – If your post, photo, etc. is not something that you would be proud to show your family, then it’s probably not something that you want to broadcast via social media. I tell our student-athletes this constantly in every annual meeting that I have with our teams. Remember all of the people that you are representing (family, friends, team, etc.) when you are posting information on social media.

3. Use common sense – If I know that you’re underage, please don’t post a picture of you with a beer can or a red cup in your hand (I can put two and two together). And even if you are of age, consider this – is this who I want prospective employers to think who I am? I was at a function with friends a few years back when someone took a picture of me with a “beverage” in my hand and posted it to Facebook. I immediately asked them to take it down (which they obliged) because even if it’s one photo, I don’t want that image to provide any sort of ill-conceived notion of who I am.

4. Steer clear of the controversy – If there is a sensitive topic at hand, do your best to stay away from it. You are entitled to freedom of speech, but you may also alienate some people along the way, possibly even a prospective employer.

5. Share your good stories – If you received an award or accolade of some sorts, academic, athletic, etc., share it. Don’t be shy to offer congratulations or good wishes to others that you know, family, friends or colleagues. Employers want to see that you are a “team player” and can be a good ambassador.

6. “Retweeting” is not an excuse – Be careful on what information you share, retweet and like. Consider everything that you put on your accounts to be taken as your own thoughts.

7. Have a regular social media presence – Employers know how important social media is today. In fact, many are looking for young and rising professionals who are in tuned with these platforms even more so than they are. Stay active and engaged on whatever social media accounts that you have.

8. Have fun!


Using the Internet and Social Media in the Application Process

by Bill DyerAssociate Director of

Strategic CommunicationsVirginia Tech


In this age of social media and increased uses of the Internet, one trend that is quickly becoming more prevalent is the use of these media to post resumes, work samples and other material for use in applying for employment. It is the opinion of this athletics communications professional that the applicant must be very careful in making use of these media.

More and more, the prospective employer is already using these media in the hiring process. While this may make the ability for the applicant to put their information out there to the job holder much easier, it may also open some doors that are better left closed. As easy as it is for a job holder to find media guides, video clips, resumes and writing samples using these means, please remember that it is just as easy to find regrettable Twitter and Facebook postings and the all-to-frequent embarrassing photos.

As someone who tries to stay up on new technologies, the Internet and social media are becoming more and more a part of everyday life, both personally and professionally. Every year, I hire three post-graduate interns for our office. Several years ago, I did not search the Internet at all during the hiring process. Each year since then, I have used this as a tool more frequently.

Being old-fashioned, I still prefer hard copies of information, but, as each year passes, I receive more information electronically. At this time, these means of supplying work samples are simply not as effective as printed materials. When I am cutting the list of 100-or-more applicants to a more workable number, it is difficult to take time out of the process to find a web site or load a DVD. I do it to be thorough, but I cannot tell you if this delay in the process has colored my view on an applicant.

In the coming years, I realize that these new media will be used more often in the application process. My guess is, in the near future, we will be hiring people that have to possess skills to produce information both on-line and in video form, so it makes sense that applicants will utilize these technologies in the application process. It is important to remember that these new forms of media are just a part of the process, not the entire process.

In conclusion, it will serve the applicant well to make sure that everything under their name, not just specific materials requested, be as pristine and professional as possible. A person never knows when the wrong information will damage their reputation.

Please be diligent.

Editor’s Note: Bill is a past recipient of CoSIDA’s 25-year award and a former member

of the organization’s Board of Directors.


Gaining Traction in an Ever-Changing Industry

by Tim GeerAssistant Director of

Athletic CommunicationsUniversity of New HavenEmail: [email protected]

Let’s be honest…getting your first full-time job in the field of your dreams is not the easiest thing in the world. Volunteering at events and undertaking unpaid internships for credit are often good ways to gain experience and make your first contacts within the industry. Sometimes these can parlay directly into graduate assistant positions or job offers after graduation, but you will likely have to market yourself to others schools and employers to land your first full time job. Just getting your foot in the door can be a daunting challenge, but being open minded and willing to adapt to a variety of changes can prove to be critical for your career path.

So you know you want to get into the athletic communications/media relations field. Fantastic! Working with student-athletes, coaches and teams, and getting to tell their stories can be very rewarding. But, it does not happen overnight.

Here are four points for starting out and continuing to grow in the athletic communications industry:

1) Patience is a VirtuePerhaps the biggest topic that comes up during job searches is experience. How many years have you been working and what are some of the relevant experiences have you had related to a particular job? With most entry level job postings asking for one to four years of previous experience, volunteering, internships (even if they are unpaid), and serving as an undergraduate student worker are how most sports information professionals get started in the industry. My first paying job as a sports information assistant was a part-time, seasonal position, which was

offered at one of the schools I had previously done an unpaid internship. This happened after two years of volunteering, serving as a student worker and then a graduate assistant at several different institutions. While it might not always be glamorous, keep the big picture in mind and remember the work you are doing now will be rewarded down the road.

2) Be Willing to RelocateUnlike many other professions, jobs in sports do not exist in every city. Professional teams and colleges are much more spread out and finding a job you qualify for near your hometown, especially entry level, can be difficult. After having spent my entire life, including my four years of undergrad and one year of grad school within 10 miles of my hometown, moving three hours away to a new state for my first job was daunting. Staying focused on your career and be willing to move to a new area to get experience. All of my former co-workers at Lehigh University had relocated from at least two hours away. Some have aspirations to stay in Division I athletics while others are more open to smaller schools or other careers outside of collegiate sports. The main thing is we are all getting experience that is relevant to our future goals, which opens up opportunities to relocate to other areas geographically if we so choose.

Editor’s Note: Tim spent three years as Assistant Director of Sports Communications

at Lehigh and returned to his alma mater in November, 2018.


Gaining Traction in an Ever-Changing Industry

by Tim GeerAssistant Director of

Athletic CommunicationsUniversity of New HavenEmail: [email protected]

3) Volunteering Remains Important to DevelopmentAs a former baseball student-athlete, one of my coaches always preached, “Never be satisfied and never stop working to get better. The moment you become content, there’s someone else who will pass you.” As I have grown professionally, I have found that same advice to be very true in the real world as well.

Volunteering is still something that should be a crucial part of professional development, not just to gain experience for an entry level job, but also to continue to grow and gain new perspectives in the field that can be used at your current job and help you advance. After all, no one wants to spin his or her tires in an entry level position their whole career.

One former co-worker has volunteered for several years at the College World Series in Omaha. Another has been volunteering at the NCAA Men’s Lacrosse Final Four for over 10 years since he was an undergrad. Beginning as a stats runner, he has worked his way up to being one of the official statisticians at the national championships the last few years. The connections he has made through the years have connected him with people from Lacrosse Magazine and the NCAA’s social media managers, which has helped him publish stories for a national audience on Lehigh student-athletes. He has also been consulted by the magazine to write an in-depth feature on how the implementation of a shot clock has affected the pace of play in NCAA women’s lacrosse.

Not only has he gained valuable perspective and

new ideas from the NCAA and other schools, but he has made numerous new connections that have also helped him in his current job, promoting Lehigh to a much wider audience.

4) Be Willing to AdaptIt is no secret that the world of communications is constantly evolving and being able to adapt to disseminate information is a high priority. Ten years ago as a college freshman, my alma mater was in the middle of upgrading to its first-ever athletics only website, Facebook was all the rave in social media, Twitter was in its infancy and Instagram did not yet exist. Live streaming of games was just starting to become more widespread, video highlights and features were few and far between, and producing printed media guides and schedule cards was still a common practice (can’t explain how old saying all of this makes me feel!).

I recently had conversations with one of our track and field coaches about the overwhelmingly positive feedback their daily Instagram stories have gotten from their recruits and others who follow the program. This summer has consisted of conversations on how we as an office can utilize the Stories feature on social media apps more, how graphics can be used differently across different platforms, but in a way that it will still reach our audience. Keeping an eye on how your various audiences receive their news and information in an ever-changing landscape is critical to remaining relevant when promoting your school, teams and student-athletes. Seeing what other organizations are doing, and how those tactics can be adapted to your operation is imperative.


The Application Process:Your Online Application Can Stand Out in the Crowd

by Lawrence FanAthletics Media Relations

DirectorSan Jose State University


With applicant pools for jobs in college sports information, media relations and various forms of athletics communications often exceeding 100 candidates, how can your online application stand out and make it past an initial screening.

Particularly at state institutions, the application process often begins by declaring one’s interest in a position using an online form. Talking with three San Jose State University human resources specialists, here are their recommendations:

1. Complete the entire application. FOLLOW INSTRUCTIONS. Double check, be sure and check again that the entire application is error-free. Ensure your email address is correct.

2. Make it easy for the human resource specialist doing the screening for the employer.

3. Tailor your cover letter and your resume to each application. If you meet the requirements and qualifications, it is not necessary to list every job or non-relevant experiences.

4. The application and the resume are for the facts and just the facts.

5. If you are asked to submit a cover letter, this is your sales tool. Here is where you should shine. Keep it to one page in length. Your “purpose” or “objective” should be in the cover letter, not in the resume. Sell your strongest assets as it relates to the job opening.

6. If there is a “comments” section, here is a place for you to describe a unique skill or training you possess. Be sure that it is unique or fits today’s world of communications.

7. References, if requested, can be supplied in the online application. It is not necessary to list references or “references provided on request” in the resume.

8. Providing online links to your SID work with your current or a previous employer is a plus. In most instances, your name can be connected with the work sample as a webcaster, photographer, feature writer or story producer, media guide creator and more.

There is no need to call to check on an application before the closing date. If there is a mistake with your application, the online mechanism is likely to send you an error message. Once the application deadline is passed, it isn’t necessary to follow up with the human resources department on where you stand. Your application is not going to be viewed more or less objectively.

Likewise, with a manager or future supervisor, if you do not have a previous or an existing relationship, it probably is best not to contact the manager and check on your application status. Check with the human resources office first if a follow-up contact is appropriate. You don’t want to put a manager or a supervisor on the spot, especially if the manager or supervisor has is following specific hiring codes and processes for a fair search.

And, after you get called for an on-campus interview, send a “thank you” to those that interviewed you. In today’s world, an email would be more immediate, but not necessarily more effective, than a Thank You card. The key is demonstrating you pay attention to detail – one more way to stand out in a crowd.


The Application Process:Job Seeking and the “Bot” - Friend or Foe

by Lawrence FanAthletics Media Relations

DirectorSan Jose State University


Easily more than 75 percent of the jobs in college athletics communications and media relations now go through a central human resources department for screening, review and recommendation. Applicant pool size can be in the hundreds. Think of the human resources employee managing multiple job searches for a college or university.

The human resources employee is likely to use a software program involving Applicant Track Systems “ATS” or “resume robots” to single out those that are at least qualified for the position and relevant for further human review.

So, how can you make the “bot” your ally in the job search? The points are similar to a person reviewing your application, resume and all other materials.

Keep Your Formatting Clean & Simple

While you still can be creative, think how the “bot” will ingest your information. Have a visual plan. Is your resume easy to read? Can the “bot” focus on your content?

Bullet points are easier for a “bot” to read than a multi-sentence paragraph.

Being too creative or attempting to present too much information may confuse the “bot” and disqualify you from the next stage of the

application process. A sans serif font like Calibri, Times New Roman, Arial, Verdana and Cambria is recommended.

Identify Keywords

This may mean tailoring your resume for a specific position or category of job opportunities. If the position has a skill set listed and you have that skill set, determine how to clearly list it in your resume. Your investment in time to tailor your resume can reap rewards by advancing past initial screening, getting called for an interview, receiving an offer and/or landing the job.

Cover your bases with the “bot” by tying an acronym with a complete description. (e.g., SID & sports information director.)

Stick to and stay on point. The “bot” is not likely to understand “creative writing” to describe your work experience.

Proofread Your Resume

Research shows that the “bot” will end your job search if it can’t understand what is on your resume. Spelling mistakes must be avoided at all costs – the costs of making it past the screening process. Also, check the spell check. Don’t let “two” become “too” many “to” you.

Conclusion

The “bot” can be your friend in the application process if you treat the “bot” like a friend. Trying to outsmart the “bot” may mean you will be outsmarted in the end.

Editor’s Note: Lawrence is a member of the CoSIDA Hall of Fame and has also been

honored with the Trailblazer Award and Arch Ward Awards from the organization.


How to Utilize Your References During the Job Seeking Process

by Scott StrasemeierSenior Associate A.D./

Sports InformationU.S. Naval Academy


Positive references can get you the job you want. Most schools will receive many resumes for a job opening and positive references can put you over the top. Here are a few rules regarding references to keep in mind.

1. Call your references and ask them if they are willing to be a reference for you. Never put somebody down as a reference without asking first.

2. Don’t bother with generic letters of recommendations. Employers don’t want to read letters written to “whom it may concern.” Employers want to be able to contact someone who can speak about your strengths and weaknesses to see if the job they have open is a fit for you.

3. Think strategically about who you use as a reference. What kind of reference do you want? You want the people who will make the strongest recommendations for you. The key is to find people who know your strengths and abilities -- and who will say positive things about you.

4. How many references should you use? Ideally you want three to five references - people who can speak highly of your accomplishments, work ethic, skills, education and performance.

5. Make sure to get complete information from each reference: full name, current title, company name, business address, and contact information (daytime phone, email, cell phone, etc.) to include on your reference sheet. You do not want an employer to have to track all that information down. Most likely they won’t. They will just eliminate you.

6. Keep your references informed. Make sure each reference always has a copy of your most current resume, knows your key accomplishments and skills, and is aware of the jobs you are seeking.

7. Be sure to thank your references for their help. Some companies may not check with all your references, but these people were willing to help you and thanking them is simply a common courtesy.

Editor’s Note: Scott is a past recipient of CoSIDA’s 25-year award and his staff has

twice been honored by the Football Writers Association.


Best Practices For a Video Interview

by Adam Pitterman

1. Know how to use the selected program. Do not try to figure this out as you go. Do a dry-run.

2. Know your internet connection. This process can be derailed by not enough bandwidth.

3. Know your camera and where it is positioned. The shot needs to show you, all of you, not just your face.

4. Be prompt. When the interview is scheduled for a specific time, be ready to go a few minutes early. Remember, no two clocks are set the same.

5. Be prepared. Don’t go into the interview “winging it”. Do your homework. Know what your interviewer will ask. The same as a face-to-face interview.

6. Be visual. This is a visual medium. Take full advantage.

7. Know your background. This is a visual interview. Don’t make the background or surroundings distracting. Keep the background simple. There will be judging of you on your surroundings.

8. Be focused. This is the most important thing you are doing at this time. Put away the cell phone/iPad.

9. Be alert. Things that may distract you from your goal may pop-up. Don’t be surprised.

10. Be alone. Don’t have people not involved in the process just hanging around your interview. They can be distracting.

11. Be professional. Do not do this interview in shorts and a t-shirt. Go into this the same way you would go into an in-person interview. And, please, wear pants. I know of cases where folks have had on a coat and tie and just wore their boxers. You never know when you need to stand-up. Also, no food and drink. A bottle of water is fine.

12. Take notes. This looks professional and will help you down the road when making decisions. Also, shows the interviewer you are taking this seriously

Editor’s Note: After 12 years at Eastern New Mexico, Adam relocated to his home in upstate

New York in the summer of 2018.


One-on-One, Group and Phone Interviews

by Brett MarhankaAthletics Communications

DirectorWheaton College


Typically when interviewing for a job in sports information a job seeker can experience any of three interview types: the in-person one-on-one interview; the in-person group interview and the phone interview. During a job search the job seeker may experience all three types.

IN PERSON ONE-ON-ONE INTERVIEW

Be yourself – It is easy in a one-on-one situation to get nervous and say too much, say too little or talk in circles. Don’t forget that they brought you to campus because they think you might be the fit they’re looking for. Find a way to show them as clearly as possible that you are the right person for their job.

Go into the interview with a plan – A potential employer wants to make a connection with you and at the same time be confident that you can do the job you’re seeking. Don’t be afraid to share a few tricks of the trade, it shows you’ve been there before and that you know what you’re doing. It is best not just to say that you will get things done; explain how you will get things done. Use specific examples of something you have done in the past or of how you would use your specific skills.

Ask relevant questions – In most cases one-on-one interviews are with the person who will supervise the position you are interviewing for. The one-on-one interview is a great time to find out what the expectations of the boss will be. If you don’t ask the questions at your interview, everyone will assume that you’re comfortable with all the responsibilities that are expected,

whether you’ve talked about them or not. Also, asking the right questions can impress the interviewer and allow you another opportunity to show knowledge about the position or the profession

IN PERSON GROUP INTERVIEW

Know your audience – Try to find out ahead of time who may be in the interview. Try to address people directly if possible. If you are aware of a specific coach, talk about their success or their recent season.

Expect the unexpected – When you are asked to answer questions from several different people they may each have different agendas or ideas in mind for what they expect from the position you are interviewing for. If a question is asked that doesn’t make sense to you or is confusing, ask for an example or for greater detail to clarify the question.

Use examples – This is a great opportunity to impress several people. When a question is asked, give them an answer and then back it up with an example of something you have done, or with something you have experienced that worked well.


One-on-One, Group and Phone Interviews

by Brett MarhankaAthletics Communications

DirectorWheaton College


Ask knowledgeable questions – This is a great time to ask questions about the culture of the department from the people who make it up. The group interview will usually include the people you may be working with in the future. Often the potential supervisor in a one-on-one interview won’t be able to give you the same feel as a group of people from the department will when you ask questions about the department or institution as a whole.

Pay attention – A group interview can often be the best time to gather information about a potential work place. You can find out a lot from the people in these meetings about how they feel about their co-workers, their supervisors, their student-athletes and the institution itself. Be sure to take notes.

PHONE INTERVIEW

Block everything else out – Make sure that while you are doing the interview you have no distractions. That no one else can interrupt or no other phones or devices can bother you. You need to be focused on this one conversation and only this one conversation the entire time.

Be direct and succinct – In a phone interview you do not want to lose an interviewers attention. Get right to the point and make it clearly, but quickly.

Pay attention to what you are saying – Make sure that you are communicating the point you want to make and don’t get sidetracked. In a phone interview it can be easy to lose your point, repeat something, or talk in circles.

Take notes – You can learn a lot about the position when the interviewer is talking. Take notes, but be sure to pay attention.


10 Questions to Expect During an Interview for an Intern or Graduate Assistant Position




This primer has been produced to help job seekers prepare for an interview situation when applying for an internship or graduate assistant position. This list has been compiled by the Virginia Tech Office of Athletics Communication, which hires three interns every year.

1. What are your favorite aspects of the sports information profession?

We ask this to see what type of passion and motivation that applicants have for this business. If we get answers involving money or prestige, that’s a BIG red flag.

2. Why are you interested in this position and what do you know about our institution?

A lot of times, the only knowledge of our school is our football team. We are gauging the applicants knowledge of us and their understanding of what interns do at our school.

3. What do you think you would bring to this position?

This gives the applicants a chance to sell themselves to us. Once again, a knowledge of the position helps.

4. What sports do you have experience working with on the collegiate level?

We often choose applicants due to specific skills and specific sports.

5. What is your experience with computers and specific software?

At Virginia Tech, a knowledge of StatCrew is essential. Also, InDesign or Quark experience

is valuable. We include follow-up questions specific to platforms and publication processes.

6. Do you consider yourself a good writer?

Applicants must be able to write! This is still a basic of our profession. If you can discuss strengths and weaknesses of your own skills, that shows you have an understanding of what makes a good writer.

7. How do you think you handle pressure, especially deadlines?

If you want to succeed in this profession, you better know how to answer this question properly.

8. Do you have any reservations to working long and late hours?

Once again, this is a hallmark of our profession. If this bothers you, look for something else.

9. When would you be able to start and what other options are you pursuing?

This one sounds a little strange, but every school has been burned by the person who is doing this interview on a lark.

10. What questions do you have for us?

This allows us to find out what our applicants are thinking about the profession and how the Virginia Tech internship is best suited for them. We expect questions about salary, job responsibilities and the Blacksburg area. We love to hear creative questions, but hate it when we hear nothing.


5 Questions Not to Ask During an Interview for an Intern or Graduate Assistant Position




1. Nothing at all

Never have nothing to ask when this part of the conversation comes up. It proves that you have not done your homework on the position.

2. How much time do I get off during...?

Expect to work every weekend and every holiday. Only time it is acceptable to ask off during the interview is for precommitted wedding and family “MUST” go-to’s.

3. Can I choose what sports I work?

NO!!! We choose. A good office will work with you and try and fit the right person to the right sport, but often there is only one of you and it is pre-determined what you will work.

4. Can you help my girlfriend/boyfriend find a job?

Never ask this during the interview. Even if you have a significant other coming with you, take that on yourself. At least wait until after you have the job. If finding a job for the other person is a deal-breaker, let the interviewer know PRIOR to the interview. But don’t expect to get the interview. This only applies for an internship or graduate assistantship. It is perfectly acceptable during an interview for a full-time job.

5. Is any full-time staff in your office looking to leave and are you likely to hire from within?

It’s okay to think this, it’s okay to ask around about this, but never ask it out front.


Creating Your Path into the Sports Information Business

by Justin MaskusAthletic Media Relations

DirectorMissouri Southern State


So you think it’s hard to break into the business? Well that may be the case, but there are still plenty of ways to break into the business that with the right effort, can be very beneficial and could be easy to obtain.

My story starts my senior year of college when I went from working for the student newspaper to working as a student employee in the sports information department. I realized this was something that I was interested in and could see as a future career.

I worked a little more than a semester in the sports information office, but in my first year, I designed the cover for the softball media guide, as well as learned how to do StatCrew for baseball and softball. I also got some experience in running track and field results software.

Obtaining this experience goes miles in getting a future job. Try to do all the things you can do while a student in helping out within the sports information department. If you can diversify yourself, you become more marketable.

That same semester, I also decided I was going to go to graduate school and applied and was accepted. On my first visit to campus to set up my class schedules, I mentioned to my advisor that I was interested in working in athletics and wondered if she knew of any graduate assistant positions available in the department, specifically in sports information. Turns out, she believed one of the two GA positions was turning over and pointed me out in the right direction to talk to the director.

I went that day over to the department, but unfortunately the director was not in, however the two GA’s were. I had a great conversation with both of them and left my info with them to give to their boss. I also sent a resume to the director the very next day. A week later, he called to offer me the position.

Sometimes being in the right place at the right time is all that matters. However, in this case, it was a bit of both. I was very lucky to be there at the right time, but had I not simply asked, I never would have found out.

You need to be putting your name out there. Make connections and network. The more people that have your name, the more opportunities you may have.

Also, don’t be afraid to volunteer. SID’s will not pass up good help, especially if it’s free. Volunteer for anything from working at various college events or also for local professional teams. Every year, the NCAA has regionals in many different sports at various different institutions. Put your name out and offer to help at those places. Not only will you be getting various experience and resume fodder, you’ll also be getting a name that you can use for a reference down the road. Maybe that person will have a job opening, but odds are, they’ll know someone that will have one and the better impression you make, the better the chances are that they’ll mention you to that person with the job.


Creating Your Path into the Sports Information Business

by Justin MaskusAthletic Media Relations

DirectorMissouri Southern State


After my GA position, I applied for pretty much every job that I could find. Initially, I was not applying for the jobs that I was truly qualified for. I had two years of experience, but I needed to find that job that was the good entry into the field.

I eventually found a job working at a small Division II school where, not only was it that entry-level job I was looking for, it was actually as a director. I had managed to find a job where they weren’t needing too much experience, but what I had was what they needed. I also was able to put on my resume that I had director-level experience. I was able to gain the knowledge in that job that led me to the position that I have today.

What it all comes down to is effort. If you’re willing to put forth the effort in networking, volunteering, getting your name out, as well as looking for the job that’s right for you, you can make that successful jump from student, graduate assistant or intern into something that is full-time.

Experience really is the best friend you can have in your future job searches and diversify yourself. Learn everything you can to make yourself more marketable. Whether it be photography, video editing, story writing or anything else that an SID does, make sure you learn it all and make yourself the best job candidate you can be.

Editor’s Notes: Justin served a four-year term on the NCAA Division II Baseball Committee from 2008-

2011, and was also Chair of the South Central Region. He currently serves as Vice-Chair of

the Job Seekers Committee.


How to Close a Deal and Get the Job

by Jon JacksonDeputy Director of Athletics

Duke UniversityEmail: [email protected]

It is that time and you are closing in on the job. There are a few important things to remember about your potential employer. First, he or she is likely very busy finalizing this process so be patient and professional. Never -- repeat ever -- take a job situation personally. Perhaps something doesn’t work out this time, but who knows when and what positions will open in the future. If you’re already a finalist, there’s something that has caught the employer’s eye.

Secondly, it might be time to utilize your resources (references). Let’s be honest, this is still a relationship business. A telephone call from a well-placed reference who might have a relationship with the potential employer might be warranted at this point. You don’t want to overdo it since you’ve already provided references to the employer, but it might make sense to have someone who’s not on your reference list to call on your behalf, perhaps someone from the media or another SID you’ve dealt with through the years.

Next, don’t be afraid to ask the questions you probably wanted to ask in the interview but didn’t. You should have a good feel for what your day-to-day duties would be at this point. However, how those duties are accomplished is just as important. Do you have direct supervision of student help? Do they provide a cell phone? What is the laptop situation? What is the benefit package? Will they pay moving costs? Essentially, what you’re showing is that you’re trying to get organized, which would play well with me if I were doing the hiring. Finally, continue to be yourself. Throughout the process, you should

have gained a feel whether or not this move will be a good “fit” for all involved. The only way this gets achieved is if you’re true to your personality and your principles.

In bullet form, here’s a recap:

• Be patient and professional

• Utilize your resources

• Don’t be afraid to ask tough questions

• Be yourself

CHOOSING BETWEEN MULTIPLE JOB OFFERS IF SITUATION COMES UP

This is the absolute best case scenario for anyone, despite what one might think. Yes, it might be stressful making a decision. You should be proud that you’re in this position.

I would approach it the “old fashioned way” and make a list of pros and cons for each situation. Salary, while important, should not be the final determining factor. You may be in a situation where you make more money but extremely unhappy with your day-to-day professional life. It is simply not worth it to work this way, even with a larger paycheck. Think about where you’ll fit in the best and what your networking opportunities will be in relation to your long-term goals.


This would also be a great time to call on your references and professional contacts for advice. Hearing a neutral point of view could be helpful. In the end, follow your instincts. There’s a reason for any inkling you might have. Once the decision is made, go with it and don’t look back. That is as big a part of being professional as any.

WRITING THANK YOU LETTERS TO THOSE WHO INTERVIEWED YOU & TO YOUR REFERENCES WHO MAY HAVE

HELPED YOU LAND THE JOB

You now have the job, but you’re not quite done. This is a critical part of the process. It is entirely appropriate to send thank you notes to everyone involved in the process -- your search committee, your previous employer, any references who worked on your behalf, etc.

Even in the age of technology, the best way to thank someone formally is through a handwritten note or a direct phone call. Avoid the temptation to send an email as it is too impersonal. This is a good practice to get into as you will utilize it hundreds of times during your career.

How to Close a Deal and Get the Job

by Jon JacksonDeputy Director of Athletics

Duke UniversityEmail: [email protected]

Editor’s Notes: Jon was named Deputy Director of Athletics/Men’s Basketball, Blue Devil Network and

Digital Media in October 2018. In his previous role as Duke’s Senior Associate Athletics

Director for External Affairs, he led a staff of more than 40 employees in the digital/social media, marketing and promotions,

media relations, ticket operations, and video production departments.


Breaking Into The Profession

by Keonte’ HerreraAssistant Director of Sports

InformationTexas State University


Entering the Sports Information/Athletic Communications field can be competitive and sometimes frustrating. Trying to figure out how to get into the field, what writing styles are the best to practice, how do I “share the story” of an athletic program and what does that really mean, and most importantly, how do I get better at this? As a former student worker and intern, I believe that I can provide some good tips on how to get started, develop your skills and grow your vision in becoming a full-time employee in this field.

First, take advantage of the College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA) organization, its convention, and other professional development opportunities. My first year at the CoSIDA Convention, I foot the bill myself and did not know anyone in attendance. However, it was there that I met many professionals around the world across multiple divisions and was able to network with them. Many of them I became friends with and they taught me how I could prepare and even mentioned my name to their friends in the field when they had job opportunities. Later, I joined the mentoring program where I got a closer glimpse of how connected the SID’s are around the country. Becoming a member of CoSIDA was the best decision I made when I was searching for a way in to this field.

When you get an internship, treat your internship as if it were a full-time position. I had the privilege to intern at Texas A&M-Commerce in 2015. Although I was in graduate school, I was not a student at A&M-Commerce, rather I

attended Angelo State University. I served as the primary contact for multiple sports where I had to promote them from the athletics website to social media diligently. Sure, I had a few late nights to tend to homework to finish my M. Ed. at another campus, however, because I let my internship serve as my priority focus during the day and was the first person in, last person out for months at a time, I was put in a prime position to obtain a full-time job very quickly.

In fact, I was recommended for my first full-time job, while still in graduate school, and was told to apply immediately. I did not feel ready, but my work said otherwise. I was encouraged by words of, “You are functioning as a full-time assistant now, just for less or no money,” during the interview process yet I know my development was correlated to the hours I put in consistently.

Take advantage of the opportunity as an intern by being involved and seen as much as possible at your institution. Do not be content with just doing the small jobs, printing copies, basic set up and break downs, etc. Rather, look to oversee a project and take full ownership of it. Once you succeed at the first project, you will get another and then another. Next thing you know, you will be functioning as a full-time assistant.


Breaking Into The Profession

by Keonte’ HerreraAssistant Director of Sports

InformationTexas State University


There are a number of ways to prepare for the job market. My number one form of preparation that I still do today, I call ‘Watch the experts.’ This method can be applied over a multitude of areas in the Sports Information/Athletic Communications field.

First, speak with your sports coaches and ask them what programs practice the writing style they prefer, who has the type of social media content they like the most etc. However, get their recommendations not only from the major college programs around the world, but ask who is doing the best in the conference. What this does is provide you with options and ideas on how you can cover your program without reinventing the wheel. Read over the stories from the previous years (previews, recaps, awards and signing class releases) and view their social media platforms to see what they did. Pick out the things you like but keep in mind the things your coaches like. Doing this pleases the staff and provides you the opportunity to put your own twist on your work. Eventually, you will gain a number of skills, content ideas and favor from not only the coaches, but also your director and other administrators.

There are obviously more strategies you can execute, and I am by no means a guru at getting a job, however, these are the steps that worked for myself and others that I know who took a similar route at the start of their careers. In fact, many of these strategies I continue to practice, especially when transitioning to a new job.

Editor’s Note: Keonte’ is a member of the Job Seekers

Committee.


Changing Jobs Within the SID Profession



“I got the job!” But, what do I do now? “Should I call my parents or spouse? No, maybe I need to give my notice to my landlord or property manager. No, I better tell my boss, first.” Changing jobs is never easy and proper research and preparation can save you time and hassles for your new move. It is a life-changing event and making a check list of the items below will be very beneficial in the end.

Depending on your time frame, it is important to take care of the basics first and check on your eligibility for continuation of health and life insurance benefits, accrued vacation pay, unused sick pay and other payments you may be entitled to with your human resources department. Secondly, you should properly inform your supervisor with a letter of resignation and be sure to thank them for the opportunity to work there. Our profession is such a small world that you never know who will be your next reference, so don’t burn any bridges. Be prepared to do an exit interview with your current employer and bring home any personal belongings from your office space. If you have a chance, send out thank you e-mails or notes to your former coaches and co-workers as well as those who interviewed you for your new job. A short note may leave a lasting impression.

Make sure you have the human resources department at your new school send you over your contract to sign which will include the salary offered and any moving expenses offered. Get things in writing. If you are single, married or have children, make sure you pick up medical and dental records to take with you to your new destination as well as any report cards and transcripts. Make sure to close out bank accounts, service utilities and leave a forwarding address for any deposits or remaining vacation pay to be sent to you. Don’t leave anything behind. Make sure to clean-up your computer and delete personal files and e-mail. A nice gesture would be to update computer files as much as you can for the next person coming in. Leaving a note detailing some of the quirks of your coaches and basic day-to-day operations would be a nice touch as well.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Use non-work contact information for all your new job communications. That way, if your access is cut-off at work, you will still be reachable. Some schools may be able to give you a new university e-mail address account or overnight mail you a university cell phone. If not, a pre-paid cell phone or pre-paid telephone card can be purchased to insure you will have a form of communication while traveling to your new destination or in case of emergency. Make sure to take your Rolodex of media contacts and colleagues from your old job to your new job. Some Microsoft Outlook programs allow you to save your contact lists to a CD or USB thumb drive which can be carried over to your new computer. Cell phone contact lists can also be transferred from one phone to another for a minimal cost or no cost by your service provider.


Changing Jobs Within the SID Profession



COST OF LIVING

Use a cost of living calculator to examine the cost of living at your new destination from your old location. There are a couple of good websites online that can help you see the cost differences between different cities and states. If you are looking for a new place to live, don’t hesitate in asking your new employer if they can send out a mass e-mail within the athletic department and see if anyone is looking for a roommate or owns a place to rent. If not, the Internet is such a good resource to check out apartment listings and homes for rent. If you find something you like online, but you are not sure if the place is as nice as it looks on the Internet, have a new co-worker check out the place for you. When you are on your on-campus job interview, always ask to see the surrounding neighborhoods and have them drive you past residential areas to get a feel of the town. You might even look up crime rates and city profiles, etc.

RELOCATION

Some schools offer moving expenses and some do not. Either way, find a moving truck company online (ie. UHaul or Penske) and see if you can find any good deals. Of course, it will depend on the mileage between your old destination and new destination. With gas prices at an all-time high, selling larger furniture items may be the best option and packing the necessities into your car for an easier move. Some companies such as UPS and commercial airlines also offer a freight or cargo service where you can transport items from one destination to another. If you must pay out of pocket for your move, remember to keep all your receipts and claim them on the following year’s IRS tax form. You should be able to get a nice return. Also, make sure to use the online site for the United States Postal Service to forward all of your mail to your new address or temporary post office box address which can be rented for a small fee.


How To Make Social Media Fun

by Pat SalvasAssociate Director of

Varsity AthleticsCommunications

Dartmouth CollegeEmail: patrick.salvas@dartmouth.

edu

What’s wrong with having fun? Nothing.

A professor in college once referred to working in sports as the “toy department of life.”

That stuck with me more than maybe anything else I took from my time in school. It’s true. It’s also maddening because I think about it every month when I pay my student loans... one sentence could’ve saved me a ton of money. Oh well.

More than a decade into my foray into sports as a career, I still think about that expression. I use it as the basis of almost everything I do professionally.

But where I use it most often is in social media.

When social media and sports really began to become intertwined, the common thought was that interns ran all team accounts. That the traditional channels of communication were still the most important and that this new form of interaction with fans was so low on the hierarchy of responsibilities that it would be left to unpaid individuals looking to get their foot in the door.

It still makes me laugh when a misguided tweet is met with a sea of replies that inevitably say something to the extent of “Uh oh, some intern is

Editor’s Note: Pat has served as the official scorer at five NCAA Division I Men’s Ice Hockey Frozen

Four events.

going to be fired after posting this!”

What professional, college, amateur or minor-league team is allowing interns to control the medium that now has the greatest reach and impact on messaging and branding? You think the greatest team in all of sports, the Colorado Avalanche (fact, not opinion) is allowing some sophomore from Boulder or DU come in and run their accounts? Uhhhhhhhh no.

Twitter, Instagram and Facebook are all the most important tools in a team/department’s communication toolbox. Press releases are written at people. Social media is a call-and-answer medium. So while you’re using it, why not make it fun and engaging?

I was asked to write this based on the work put into creating the voice behind the Twitter account for the Dartmouth men’s hockey team: @Dartmouth_MIH. I started it my first week on the job in September 2011, probably really late into the game for a Division I program.

It was a slow gain as the entire season went by and there were only about 600 followers. Then that spring, the LA Kings went on a run that eventually led to a Stanley Cup title. That run will be remembered for what the eight seed was able to accomplish on the ice, but at the time, a good amount of talk surrounding the team had to do with the social media presence they had cultivated in the run to the Cup.






edu

The Kings set the table for what ‘Hockey Twitter’ has become. I felt that a program like Dartmouth could benefit from this same type of outward expression: funny, yet informative, while not taking itself too seriously.

As an Ivy League institution, though, you have to make sure you’re not doing anything that can damage the carefully manicured branding that had been cultivated over 250 years. The last thing you want to do is take down 250 years of work in 250 characters.

So I walked a line. You start with 90 percent informative and 10 percent entertainment. In the eight years since, it’s probably more in the 50/50 range now. However, what has helped me with the growth and exposure of the program is the juxtaposition of the aforementioned idea of what an Ivy is supposed to be and what I’m portraying.

The world sees these eight institutions of higher learning and assumes that all the students and the professors are the clichéd characters from television and movies.

Why can’t they have fun too?

That’s how I thought and that’s how I tweet.

Fridays in the summer are for dog pictures. Are we a team with a dog mascot? Nope. Are dogs allowed in Thompson Arena? With the exception of working dogs, no. But you know what? I like dogs and so do most people, so I’ve started receiving pictures from former players who want their pooch featured.

Easy likes. And a ton of them too.

There’s an endgame for me, though. You reel people in with adorable doggos, but you keep them there for the team. You make them care about a group of players and a team they didn’t know they wanted to care about.

For you and your team, it might be something else. Or it might be dogs, too!

My goal is to make you feel connected to this team and all the teams I work with. Giving people a glimpse behind the curtain is great, but you don’t want to just open the curtain and show them what’s going on, you want to invite them in and make them feel invested.

This isn’t anything new. The rise of social media over the last half decade has been littered with so many memorable, fun and engaging posts.






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The days of monotonous press releases being the standard bearer for athletic departments and pro teams are in the past.

It’s the time to be fun and informative, while appropriate, inclusive and engaging. Your work is now for everyone.

Social media can be a dark and decisive place.

Your job is to make it the best aisle in the toy department of life.


Editor’s Notes: Michael was named as Athletic Director at UConn Avery Point in October, 2018 after 17+ years in athletic communications at

Quinnipiac and Southern Connecticut State.

He has also been recognized five times by CoSIDA as part of its “Volunteer 15” program.

The Importance of Mentors



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With over 1,000 member institutions encompassing the NCAA, NAIA, NJCAA and additional affiliate organizations, “college athletics” as we know it can be a complicated and complex mix of institutions.

The reality of it though, is that regardless of whether schools are separated by a particular conference, or a geographic boundary, or a classification - such as public vs. private, secular vs. non-secular, etc. - all college athletic departments are filled with a variety of professionals at a variety of points in their respective careers.

This holds true in whatever subset of an athletic department that you want to look at - athletic communications, equipment, compliance, etc.

My point is this - you are always going to have an opportunity to be a lifelong learner, whether you are in year one in the profession, or year 51.

I have been extremely fortunate to have numerous mentors throughout my nearly two decades in college athletics. In particular, there are two that I’d like to touch on quickly.

Jack McDonald, who is being recognized with NACDA’s Lifetime Achievement Award at this year’s convention, hired me at Quinnipiac University as a 22-year old newbie. During our six years together at QU, Jack fostered an environment that promoted family, creativity and innovation across all departments. I consider myself truly grateful to Jack for giving me an initial break into the field, and fortunate

to have had the opportunity to have learned under his tutelage for the beginning stages of my professional career. I consider Jack to be a mentor, a colleague and a friend. In fact, when I took the AD job at UConn Avery Point, the first congratulatory email that I received was from Jack.

Patricia Nicol hired me as Associate Athletic Director at Southern Connecticut State University after my six-year run at Quinnipiac. With a little bit of experience under my belt at that point - and also being in a little different role than I was at QU - Pat encouraged me to work both collaboratively and independently in an effort to best position myself for a future role as a college Athletic Director. Without her support during our time together at SCSU, I wouldn’t be an Athletic Director today.

On the flip side, I always tell anyone that will listen that the proudest achievement of my professional career is the fact that 40 or so individuals who worked with me - yes, the reporting line may say worked for, but we’re all working towards the same goals - have continued their careers with a job in either collegiate athletics, professional


The Importance of Mentors



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sports, amateur sports or some segment of the media, PR or communications industries. That tells me that the environment that I’ve tried to create in my role as a leader and supervisor has been both rewarding and fun.

As part of your own individual growth process, I encourage you to leverage both sides of the mentor/mentee process.

As a mentor, I try my best to stay in contact with as many former assistants, interns, graduate assistants and student workers as possible. I continue to try to advocate for them as they advance in their respective fields.

Over the course of the last 8-to-10 months, as I interviewed, accepted and eventually transitioned into an Athletic Director role, I have especially tried to leverage the expertise of my mentors. After all, many are either sitting or former college AD’s. Chances are pretty good that they’ve already been through any scenarios - good, bad or otherwise - that I may be facing.

Fortunately for me, they’ve always been there to help as a part of this journey.

While we are limited in how much time that we have in a day, and that time is our most precious commodity, college athletics is really a close-knit community that’s filled with individuals who want to help, who want to make a difference, and who want to pay it forward.

It doesn’t matter whether you are at Duke, Dartmouth, New Haven or UConn Avery Point. Those are just a few of the schools represented in this Primer. These individuals have taken the time to put their own thoughts and insights on paper because they want to help the rising group of professionals in this field.

Take the time to think about how being a mentor and a mentee can positively impact your life and the lives of others in the field.

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