Networking: Why Is It So Important?

As you aim to take your next step into the sports industry, you may hear the word ‘networking’ used. A lot. 

But what really is it, and why does it tend to be the number one piece of advice given to those looking for work in the sports industry?

“Everyone I speak to talks about how important networking is,” former England and Manchester City centre-back Joleon Lescott told GIS, and when people talk about networking, they mean building relationships. 

This is because relationships are vital in the sports industry, as the competitive nature of the sporting job market can mean personal relationships provide a vital edge.

There is even research that supports this, often saying that networking and referrals are the most effective ways to secure job interviews. 

Beyond career opportunities, networking also allows you to learn from those working in roles you aspire to, helping you understand what the role entails and what it takes to get there.

Those in the industry tend to be aware of this, and one example is GIS lecturer and footballing super-agent, Dr Erkut Sogut.

“Networking is so important, I’d always encourage students to get out there and meet people, because your network is your net worth in the end – especially in football.”

How to Network

It can be a daunting task to go up to an industry professional and start a conversation, so what are some tips to make the process easier?

Attending specific networking events is a great way to meet industry professionals. At these events, everyone shares the same goal, which is to build connections. It is also worth noting the value of building relationships with as many people as you can, as you never know what sort of role they could hold in the future, and what kind of connections they have.

GIS hosts frequent events that provide the perfect opportunity for you to grow your professional network and build relationships in the sports industry. To secure your place at one of our upcoming events, click here.

But networking doesn’t just happen face-to-face, and LinkedIn can be another valuable tool, says Tom Rowell, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at World Snooker Tour.

“It was so important to me to keep a good network on LinkedIn,” he said. “Keep an eye on what’s happening, look at trends, look at where people are moving, see where jobs are coming from, because it’s not like there’s an Indeed.com where you can go and see football jobs. It doesn’t really work like that in football. It’s very much LinkedIn based.”

While LinkedIn is a great way of accessing a broad network of people, your approach needs to be genuine. Networking isn’t all about collecting business cards— the best way to build relationships with people is to show a real interest in them and what they do.

“You can be the smartest person in the world,” Tom added, “but if you don’t get along with people or understand how they work, and how to manage people, you’re going to struggle, across in interviews.”

You don’t need to be extroverted either, as simply listening and being curious can show you’re invested in the conversation.

A GIS student who put her networking skills to use is Vilde Ringstad, football administrator at Heming Fotball – Norway’s largest multi-sport club.

Originally studying computer science at university, Vilde found the confidence to transition into a role in football, saying, “volunteering and talking to people made me realise that it’s possible to change the direction I wanted to take my career in.” 

One of the best environments to practice these skills is at our signature Global Summits, says GIS student and Al Qabila goalkeeper, Harrison Bruton. 

These are purposefully designed 5-10 day residentials held at GIS locations all over the world where students hear from guest speakers, attend workshops, network with industry leaders and go behind the scenes at iconic sporting venues– click here to find out more.
Article by Zakaria Anani