The big interview for a sports internship or sports job is just around the corner! It is important to be well prepared to stand out from the immense competition so we’ve put together this little guide for you:
- LOOK TIDY – Yes, you might need to iron your clothes. Dress to impress for your interview in the best way you are comfortable. Evening attire is not necessary, but be clean and tidy in what you are wearing. It is okay to be yourself, but don’t look like you walked straight out of the gym. Some tech bros can get away with it, but you might want to rethink wearing that hoodie for an interview!
- KNOW YOUR INTERVIEWER – If you are unsure, it is okay to ask as you prepare for the interview process. Knowing who from the organization will be conducting the interview gives you a chance to do some research on that individual and have a few interesting things you already know that you can share about them. People love flattery, so showing you know something about shows initiative and interest.
- RESEARCH THE ORGANIZATION – You may be applying for a job in a sport or league that you are not overly familiar with, but that is not an excuse. While you don’t want to come across as an extreme super-fan, it is important that you come prepared with the basics about the team and league you want to work within.
- KNOW THE INTERNSHIP – That means reviewing the job description prior to your interview so you are prepared with answers about how you are the best fit for this opportunity. You also need to make sure you know your own resume very well! You will be asked questions.
- PLAN YOUR ROUTE [IF IN-PERSON] – If you are interviewing in person, take time in advance to research the location, the time it will take to get there, and anything else you might need to be prepared for in your travels. You do not want to be late! Your interviewer likely is conducting several interviews and it is important to show that you value their time.
- CLEAR YOUR SPACE [IF OVER VIDEO] – We’ve seen students conduct interviews with their dogs jumping on them and distracting them constantly [true story]. Look, life happens. But you need to prove to your interviewer that you are taking this seriously and that means blocking out the time allotted to give them your undivided attention. Also, make sure whatever platform you are using for the interview is ready to go and will not require a last-minute update that makes you late (we’re looking at you, Zoom or Microsoft Teams).
- LISTEN BUT PREPARE QUESTIONS – It is important you listen first to the interviewer before speaking and answering questions. At the same time, it is inevitable the interviewer will ask you towards the end of the interview if you have any questions. This is where you can refer to your prepared list of questions and see if any of them are still outstanding at that point in the interview. Having questions is important for your own knowledge of this internship, but also shows that you took time and initiative to prepare.
If you want the internship/job, you need to put in the work before the job starts. Be prepared, understand the role and the organization, prepare yourself physically and mentally, and be ready to knock it out of the park!
