Five Best Tips to Make a Career in Sports Management

Sports management is a field that offers a variety of opportunities for those interested in working in the sports industry. To make a career in sports management, it is necessary to have a solid understanding of the industry and the skills and knowledge required to succeed. Whether you’re a sports enthusiast or a business-minded individual, a career in sports management can be both rewarding and challenging.

The article will highlight a few best tips to make a career in sports management. These tips will help you to develop the skills, knowledge, and experience needed to succeed in this exciting field. Whether you are just starting or are looking to take your career to the next level, these tips will help you to achieve your goals.

1. Get a Relevant Degree

One of the most crucial steps in making a sports management career is getting a relevant degree. A college or university degree in sports management or a related field is essential for many entry-level positions in the industry. However, it can also be valuable for advancing their careers.

Many degree programs can help you with your career in sports management. However, one of the best degrees to pursue a career is a master of business administration in sports management.

This program combines the core curriculum of an MBA with specialized coursework in sports management, giving students a strong foundation in business and sports. It can provide the skills and knowledge needed to excel in sports management and open doors for you to work in other industries. 

It covers various topics such as marketing, finance, event management, sports law, and more. Additionally, many degree programs offer internships, providing students with valuable hands-on experience.

You can apply the knowledge and skills gained from an MBA program to other industries, such as entertainment, media, and non-profit organizations. 

With the increasing popularity and financial growth of the sports industry, the demand for professionals with an MBA in sports management is also rising, making it a lucrative career path to pursue. According to Payscale, the average base annual salary of an MBA degree holder in sports management in the US is $62,000.

2. Get Suitable Work Experience

In addition to getting a relevant degree, getting suitable work experience is also crucial for making a career in sports management. Having real-world industry experience can help you stand out from other job candidates. It can also provide valuable skills and knowledge that will be useful in your future career.

There are several ways to get work experience in sports management. One of the most popular options is to pursue internships or co-op positions while in school. Another way to get work experience is to volunteer or work part-time for a sports organization or team. It can include working as a volunteer at a local sports league or as a part-time employee for a professional sports team.

There are many internship opportunities for students pursuing a degree in sports management. In fact, a study by Zippia states that around 5,999 sports interns are currently employed in the US. 

In addition, approximately 67.8% of these sports interns are males, while the remaining 32.2% are female candidates. Hence, there are internship opportunities for both men and women, with equal earning opportunities.

Getting suitable work experience in the sports management industry is a key step in making a career in sports management. In addition, it will help you to stand out from other job candidates. Therefore, it will be beneficial to start looking for internships, volunteer, or part-time opportunities as soon as possible.

3. Develop a Clear Understanding of the Industry

To make a successful career in sports management, it is essential to have a clear understanding of the industry. Understanding the different aspects of sports management, the industry’s challenges, and the trends will help to make informed decisions and navigate the field effectively, from the chairs to tennis windscreens.

One way to do this is to stay informed about the latest news and developments. It can include reading trade publications, attending industry events, and following relevant social media accounts.

Another way to develop a clear understanding of the industry is to gain a broad understanding of the different aspects of sports management. It includes understanding the business side of sports, such as marketing, sponsorship, and revenue generation, as well as the operational side, such as event management, facility management, and logistics.

4. Create a Portfolio of Your Accomplishments

Creating a portfolio of your accomplishments is a vital step in making a career in sports management. It will help you to showcase your skills and experiences and demonstrate to potential employers that you have the qualifications and abilities they are looking for.

A portfolio typically includes a resume, cover letter, relevant documents, and materials demonstrating your skills and experiences. In addition, it can include certificates, awards, honors, and samples of your work, such as event plans, marketing campaigns, and financial reports.

When creating your portfolio, it is important to tailor it to the specific job or industry you are applying for. It will help to highlight the most relevant skills and experiences and make it more likely that your portfolio will be well-received by potential employers.

5. Build a Good Social Media Presence

Building a good social media presence is a crucial step in making a career in sports management. Social media platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Instagram can be powerful tools for networking, showcasing your skills and experiences, and promoting your brand.

A professional and active social media presence ensures you connect with other industry experts and professionals and demonstrate your expertise and passion for sports management. It can effectively build a strong network and make you more visible in the industry. 

One of the most common online activities nowadays is social media usage. Statista says social media users reached about 4.2 billion worldwide in 2021.

However, you must always ensure that your social media profiles are up to date, with accurate and current information. Additionally, ensure that your profiles are consistent with each other and your brand.

When using social media, it is important to remember to be professional and respectful. Avoid posting controversial or offensive content, and be mindful of the image you are presenting to the public.

When sharing content, it’s important to share relevant and interesting content that demonstrates your knowledge and interest in the industry. It can include articles, videos, infographics, and other materials that provide value to your followers and showcase your expertise.

Sports Management is a Rewarding Field

Making a career in sports management can be highly competitive and rewarding, but it requires a combination of the right education, experience, skills, and knowledge.

By following the above tips, you can develop the skills and knowledge you need to succeed in the industry and increase your chances of landing your dream job. Remember, a sports management career is about the love of sports and the business and management aspects of it.

It’s necessary to start early, whether it’s looking for internships or working on building a relevant portfolio. The more experience you gain, and the more you understand the industry, the better equipped you will be to excel in this exciting field. Finally, don’t be afraid to take risks and pursue opportunities that interest you, as this will help you to grow and develop as a professional.