PERSONAL AND PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT
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if you aren’ t elected, this still shows your commitment to your industry and introduces you to the entire membership.
If you don’ t have business cards, order some. You can find easy do-it-yourself options online.
LOCAL ORGANIZATIONS Many cities have formal and informal clubs that are completely free or have a nominal fee. These groups can help you develop your interpersonal skills and engage with people who have similar interests outside of the sports field management industry. Your interpersonal skills or transferable skills are often what make you stand out in a job application or impact your leadership ability, so why not enhance those skills while building your network?
A lot of people don’ t realize groups like these exist in their city and accept people from all industries who are interested in the group’ s charge. A quick web or social media search can help you identify some options. Simply search your city and phrases such as“ social media,”“ entrepreneurs,”“ technology,” or“ Toastmasters,” along with“ club,”“ network,” and / or“ meet-up,” and see what you find. Most of these organizations have social media groups you can join, as well as websites where you can access information and a calendar of upcoming events.
Not only can you develop new skills through such organizations, but you can build relationships with others outside of your industry, so you can serve as a sort of ambassador to help others learn about your facility and the sports field management profession.
Additional tips: If engaging in a new group sounds intimidating, invite a friend, relative or colleague to join you. Don’ t be afraid to step outside of your comfort zone and try something new. If you find that you don’ t enjoy a group, attempt something else until you find a good fit.
sportsfieldmanagementonline. com August 2025 | SportsField Management
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