I recently had the pleasure to speak in front of 200 bright sports management students at York College in York, PA. It was almost a little too scary as it brought back some memories from when I was a sports management student in 2005.
It was an honor, to say the least, to have the opportunity to share my experiences within the sports industry. I talked about how companies are seeking out individuals because of their online footprint, and why going about the “traditional” way of finding a job (especially in one of the hardest industries to break into) was just not working that well for people in this economy.
It was inspiring for me to see the enthusiasm most of the students had. Many greeted me before and after my speech to ask detailed questions, and I was able to give some potential step by step blueprints that would give them a better opportunity to landing the sports job of their dreams. It was fun for me to share insights from the things I have personally been through, and I feel honored that Dr. Tim Newman (head of the sports management department at York) invited me to teach his students the “new rules” of marketing and PR in the sports industry.
Take a look at what Dr. Newman has to say about the challenges students face with using social media. I think other institutions should start being less afraid to teach their students social media tactics, and start having more of a forward thinking mindset like Dr. Newman does with his.
What do you think? Should students be diving into social media, or should schools be holding them back out of fear? I am interested in your point of view on this topic. I think the game has changed for students and they should have entire classes on social media marketing… agree or disagree?
I completely agree with Dr. Newman. It’s often a struggle to get college kids to understand that using Facebook as an avenue to advance their professional interests is a better use of the service than, say, posting pictures from last night’s party. Students SHOULD be diving into social media, but it would be most helpful to have some guidance.
I also remember being a sports management student in 2005. I would have LOVED to have taken a class on social media marketing. Obviously this kind of stuff – for the most part – wasn’t around then, but I think it would be a valuable addition to any sports management curriculum.
Excellent work, Lewis.
Thanks Bear,
I am glad to know Dr. Newman is taking action and helping his students with understanding new media, even though it isn’t a required course. Those students will be well prepared for success after college… if they listen that is 🙂
Social media is not just the present, it is the future. After getting my BS in Accounting many years ago I had the good fortune to get a MS in Sport Administration last year. Being able to reach so many people at one time is a dream come true for anyone who who wants to grow their business and opportunity quickly.
My advise would be to have a business identity and a personal identity. Keep in mind, of course, that your personal identity will be scrutinized just as carefully as your business one. It is probably a good idea not to post anything you would not want your Mom's friend to see.
I enjoy Facebook to keep up with my family and catch up with classmates but rely on Twitter for my business identity. I plan on giving away my business 140 characters at a time!
Congratulations York College on getting ahead of the curve!
Jude Caserta
Athletic Budget Coach
fantastic post, very informative. I’m wondering why the opposite
experts of this sector don’t understand this.
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great readers’ base already!