Sponsorship can be achieved at all levels of competition in sports. There are plenty of businesses out there willing to financially support athletes, teams and clubs in return for promotion.
Interpersonal Skills
For all aspiring professional athletes, developing interpersonal skills is a must. You must be able to articulate yourself clearly in a coherent manner. Being able to engage in conversation and express your thoughts in an efficient manner will assist you in all facets of your life. The skills are particularly handy when dealing with the media and relating to other players, coaches and management.
If you want a good example of great interpersonal skills, have a look at Rugby Union players. A lot of Rugby players are scouted by Grammer/Prep Schools across the world, these institutions are regularly positioned quite high on the socio-economic scale, so education levels are relatively high.
Listen to a Rugby player talk in an interview, the standard of discourse and confidence in speaking is usually superior to that of other sports. They go outside of the usual “we just played our game…“, “did it for the gaffer...” rhetoric statements that most athletes say in the media and actually add analysis worth listening to. Being able to contribute constructively will help you stand out and be taken seriously, thus adding to marketable value.
“Sponsorship can be achieved at all levels of competition in sports. There are plenty of businesses out there willing to financially support athletes, teams and clubs in return for promotion.
Modesty (Hubris Management)
Being and showing confidence is a must, some sports require a certain amount of posturing and acting infallible (eg. combat sports) as part of the gambit between combatants and marketing/promotion of events. This is value adding, but can’t be taken too seriously outside of the sporting arena. As an aspiring athlete you must be likeable to people watching you to develop a marketable product. Always be improving, stay rational, don’t believe the hype that goes on, stick to the task at hand.
Success/Achievement
All sponsors are looking to align themselves with success, that’s pretty much what athlete/sporting sponsorship is all about. Aim to win competitions and championships, it does count and will add to your market value on paper.
Traits Sponsors Look For In Athletes
Source: How to Choose the Right Athlete to Endorse Your Brand (sportsnetworker.com)
On Field Attributes
- Quality Performance
- Winning Record
- Skill
- Style
- Potential
Off Field Attributes
- Personality
- Physical Attractiveness
- Uniqueness or Unique Personal Background
- Role Model
- Relationship With Fans
Remember that sponsors want to draft off success for a mutual benefit, having fun while your doing it will be an attractive force.
