Treat Your Job Search Like a Project (February 3, 2026)

 

Systems Create Momentum: Treating Your Job Search Like a Season

In athletic communications, we live and die by our systems. Whether it’s a game-day checklist, a social media calendar, or a media credentialing process, we know that structure leads to success.

The most successful SID job searches follow that same blueprint. They aren’t chaotic or reactive—they are organized, tracked, and reviewed. If you want to move from a "job seeker" to a "job holder," you need to stop relying on memory and start building a system.

Why You Need a "Search Playbook"

Momentum in a career search does not happen by accident; it is built through structure. Candidates who manage their search professionally often feel calmer, more skilled in their interviews, and significantly more confident.

By creating a "Search Playbook," you ensure that no opportunity falls through the cracks and every follow-up is timed perfectly.

Building Your Simple System

You don't need complex software to do this—a simple spreadsheet or document will suffice. Your system should track:

• The Application Log: Which school, which position, and what date did you hit "submit"?

• The Deadlines: When does the posting close? When is the ideal date for a follow-up?

• The Contact List: Who are the key stakeholders? Note your conversations, LinkedIn connections, and any insights gained from informational interviews.

• The Version Tracker: Which version of your resume or portfolio did you send? (This is crucial if you are tailoring your materials for different divisions or roles).

The Weekly "Game Film" Review

Just as a coach reviews film, you should schedule a dedicated block of time each week to:

1. Review Progress: Where do you stand with your current "leads"?

2. Adjust Strategy: If you aren't getting hits, is it time to refresh your portfolio?

3. Send Follow-ups: Reach out to departments where the trail has gone cold.

4. Identify New Opportunities: Scout the latest postings on the CSC job board or NCAA Market.

The result? Instead of feeling overwhelmed by the process, you become the director of your own career.

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Reflection: Take an honest look at your process. Do you have a documented system—or are you relying on memory and "gut feeling"?

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Footnote: Organization is key to success in this industry. If you’d like to see an example of a search tracking template, I’m happy to share one that I developed. 

Why Applying Online Isn’t Enough (February 2, 2026)

Building Relationships in a Relationship-Driven Profession

In the world of athletic communications, submitting a digital application is a necessary first step—but it is rarely sufficient on its own.

This is a relational profession. Whether you are working on a collaborative stat crew or managing a crisis with a head coach, your success depends on how you interact with others. Consequently, hiring managers want context beyond a PDF. They aren’t just looking for a technician; they are looking for a teammate. They want to know how you communicate, how you think under pressure, and how you show up.

The Power of Intentional Visibility

Strong candidates don't just "apply and pray." They pair their application with strategic, professional connection. This isn't about pestering a busy SID; it’s about signaling that you are an intentional candidate rather than a passive applicant.

Here is how to bridge the gap effectively:

• The Professional Introduction: A brief, well-crafted email or LinkedIn message to the hiring manager or a peer in the department can put a "voice" to your name.

• The Thoughtful Question: Instead of asking about the salary right away, ask about the department’s workflow or their vision for digital storytelling.

• The Informational Conversation: Requesting 15 minutes of someone’s time before a job is even posted is the best way to build a bridge.

• The Respectful Follow-Up: A clear, concise follow-up after an interview or application shows maturity and a high level of interest.

Connection vs. Pestering

There is a fine line between being persistent and being a nuisance. The difference lies in value and respect for time. When you reach out, ensure your message is:

1. Concise: Get to the point quickly.

2. Specific: Mention something you admire about their specific department or a recent project they completed.

3. Low-Pressure: Always give them an "out" if they are too busy to respond.

When done correctly, professional outreach signals initiative, maturity, and genuine interest. It shows you have the "soft skills" required to represent an athletic department at a high level.

The Long Game

Networking shouldn't start when you need a job; it should be a consistent part of your professional life. The people you connect with at a CSC convention today may be the search committee members for your dream job five years from now.

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Reflection: Networking is a muscle. Who have you intentionally connected with—or reconnected with—this week?

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Footnote: Building a professional network can feel daunting. If you aren't sure how to draft that first outreach email, feel free to reach out to me for guidance. The College Sports Communicators (CSC) Career Services Committee is also a fantastic resource for making these vital industry connections.