“We no longer think these documents are relevant when evaluating candidates. It is as obsolete as the Objective Statement”

- TSR Writing Staff

The normal tactic used when producing a Resume/CV is to include the words REFERENCES AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST at the bottom of document. If requested, these references are nothing more than letters gratifying the personality and mannerism of the candidate. This is not the most critical information an employer would need when evaluating a candidate.

The TSR staff believes that Letters of Recommendation and references are no longer an important part of the recruitment process. They are nothing more than artificial enhancements of a person’s character. A candidate would never submit nor contact a person they feel would present any negative tendencies, characteristics, or behaviors to a potential employer. 

Second, Letters… from political officials or other popular figures replicate the content as those written from others. The name on the signature line is the only difference between their letter and those written by others. Candidates are sometimes under the assumption that being affiliated with someone ”popular” somehow enhances their chances of securing employment. (IMP:  Useful when Networking only)

Any employer who excites easily by the author of a Letter of …. should be removed from his/her position. The most appropriate method to evaluate a candidate is to contact his immediate and previous supervisor or manager. Both would have the most current interactions with the candidate, providing the most relevant evaluation of the candidates’ tendencies and proficiencies.

I had the opportunity on Monday to participate in an interview with the founder of CoachBook, Bill Vasko. The purpose of the interview was to provide Resume and Cover Letter writing helpful tips and information to members (and guests) of the CoachBook platform.

CoachBook is a social-networking site comprised of current/aspiring coaches, trainers, and sports performance individuals seeking guidance for employment, coaching tips, and networking opportunities. The web address for CoachBook is  http://coachbook.ning.com/.

A podcast of the interview is available on the site. The interview is geared toward those seeking career opportunities in coaching, but also provides helpful Resume and Cover Letter preparation information in general.

The TSR staff would like to again thank Bill Vasko and his staff for the invitation. We would also recommend this site to all involved in coaching at either the secondary or collegiate level.

The ECHL (East Coast Hockey League) will be conducting a Ticket Sales Job Fair on June 18, 2010 in Las Vegas, Nevada. This Job Fair is by invitation only and the following positions will be available for hire: Sales Representative and Ticket Sales Manager.

The ECHL will be selective in granting invitations for participation. However, the invitation is only the 1st step. Once invited, the applicants must then go through the interview stage.

TSR suggests to those planning to submit a Resume for consideration is to first “study” the requisite job descriptions. Here you will see what management seeks in qualified candidates and the related job responsibilities. Make certain these positions are ones you desire to pursue.

ECHL Job Fair Preparation Tips:

Study the history of the ECHL and its Member Organizations

Resume should contain at a minimum “5″ relevant Keywords relating to the available job descriptions Note: The Keywords will be available from your previous employment history

Prepare at least “2″ questions to ask the interviewer if the opportunity presents itself

Have a 3rd party review and analyze your Resume prior to submission

TSR wishes all potential candidates success at this event. We will participate and have a booth. Feel free to stop by and get additional feedback and helpful tips. Also, read the previous blog postings for additional advice and information. Enclosed is the Job Fair URL: http://echl.teamworkonline.com/teamwork/r.cfm?i=28567

“Sports, it’s more than just excitement and fun. There is a business component involved.”

TSR Staff

This is written to assist those at the final step of the hiring process, the interview. During the interview, expect the interviewer to ask questions where the answers are found in your Resume/CV. At the conclusion of the interview comes the popular closing query, “Do you have any questions for us?”

To stand out amongst the other interviewees, your competition, take the interview to a place the interviewer would not expect you to go. Appear to be more than just a thrill-seeker looking to work in the glamorized Sports Industry. Interviewers are aware of the great demand for the employment opportunities their companies promote to the general public. This means that you have to be exceptional and be unique.

Know more about the position than the words posted in the job description. Understand the “health” or “sickness” of the industry the company is grouped in. Be familiar with the competitors, their products, and how they operate. Do you have ideas for a Mobile solution the company can undertake? Use your creative mind to suggest products and services the company should offer in the near future. If you come prepared to discuss that above then you will show your potential employer an awareness of INDUSTRY KNOWLEDGE.

Industry Knowledge is critical. Most employees are now expected to add more to their positions and the company than that contained in the job description. The depth of knowledge of its employees is extremely important to the growth and survival of a company. It allows the company to time trends in the market and successfully adapt. 

Extensive knowledge of the industry will also allow you to control the interview. Your grasp of Industry Knowledge should make your Resume/CV will rise to the top of the competitive pile. However, remember not to come across as arrogant but insightful.

The best source of the business side of the Sports Industry (Industry Knowledge) is the Street & Smith’s Sports Business Journal. This magazine is published weekly. It provides in depth analysis of Labor, Sponsorships, Finance, and other issues related to the business side of the Sports Industry.  Use this publication to add to the Value proposition you will provide during the interview.