New Coaches: Networking, Start Early



Networking plays a variety of roles in a new coach’s career. Knowing how to network can be the difference in landing the perfect job versus a mediocre job that you do not love. One of the most important steps in networking is starting your network early.

Carolyn Thomas¹ states that “networking should be started while still in college.” The people that are met there (other students, professors, coaches) will all be helpful to a new coach’s future, so it is important to make a good impression with these early contacts. Arrive to class early, be able to professionally communicate with others, and take any opportunity to make a solid first impression. These people could possibly be a deciding factor in a new coach’s future, and the first impression you gave to them will be recalled. Carlin Flora² says even though first impressions cannot always be trusted, more than not it will be the lasting imprint a new acquaintance remembers.

Start networking early and be sure that every day is spent learning, growing, and impressing.

 

 

 

¹Thomas, C. (2012). THE POWER OF NETWORKING. Diversity Employers, 2.

²Flora, C. (2004). THE ONCE-OVER CAN YOU TRUST FIRST IMPRESSIONS?. Psychology Today, 37(3), 60.