Why I Stopped Chasing an Assistant Director Role for a Second Internship (February 28, 2026)

In 2000, I was finishing my first post-graduate internship at the Naval Academy. I was convinced my next stop had to be an Assistant Director role in a Sports Information or Athletic Communications office. I applied for several positions, landed multiple interviews, and even had an internal opportunity on the table.

But I made a choice that looked "backward" to many: I moved to Indiana University for a second internship. (Funny enough, that’s where I eventually met my wife, though I didn't know that then!)

In the world of Athletic Communications, an Assistant Director title carries weight. It feels like you’ve finally "arrived." It’s a full-time seat at the table and looks great on a resume. When I turned down those roles for another internship, people asked, "Why go backward?"

Here is why that second internship was actually the fastest way to move forward in my career.

---

1. The "Title vs. Skill" Trap

Early in your career, a title can be a trap. If you become an Assistant Director at a smaller or less-resourced department, you might be the "big fish," but you risk hitting a plateau early.

While I had the ambition for the title, I recognized I still had technical gaps in high-level Adobe Creative Suite workflows, stat-keeping mastery, and crisis management.

The Goal: I didn't want to just have the title; I wanted to be the most competent person in the room when I eventually earned it.

2. Prioritizing Mentorship Over Management

As an Assistant Director, people look to you for answers. As an intern, you are there to ask questions.

By choosing a second internship at a powerhouse program like IU, I gained access to mentors with multiple years of experience. I watched how they navigated NCAA tournaments, handled media relations, and managed high-pressure communications. I traded a "manager" title for a "masterclass" in the industry.

3. Doubling the Network

Had I taken an Assistant Director role immediately, my network might have stayed confined to one specific conference or region. By moving to a different environment for a second internship, I effectively doubled my professional circle. I gained two sets of supervisors, two distinct athletic departments, and two networks of media contacts who could vouch for my work.

4. Building a Foundation to Avoid Burnout

Let’s be real: Athletic Communications is a grind. Jumping into a leadership role without a rock-solid understanding of "how the machine works" is a recipe for 80-hour weeks and rapid burnout.

My second internship allowed me to refine my workflow efficiency. I learned how to do in two hours what used to take me six. That efficiency is what sustains a long-term career.

---

The Takeaway for Job Seekers

Don't be afraid of a "lateral move" or even a "downward" title change if the environment is superior.

• A title is temporary.

• Skills are permanent.

• An elite network is priceless.

I didn't "fail" to get an Assistant Director job—I chose to build a foundation that ensured when I did take that role, I wouldn't just hold the position; I would excel in it.

---

From Cap and Gown to Career: Setting Goals for Your First Post-Grad Role (February 27, 2026)

The ink on your diploma is barely dry, and the pressure is on. You’re likely seeing "Entry Level" job postings that ask for 2–3 years of experience. It feels like a rigged game, but this is exactly where strategic goal setting and internships come into play.

If you are a recent grad, your job search isn't just about finding a paycheck—it's about building a foundation.

1. The Power of the "Post-Grad Internship"

Many graduates feel that internships are only for current students. This is a myth. A post-graduate internship is one of the most effective ways to get your foot in the door of a competitive company.

• Goal: Aim to apply for at least 3 "internship-to-hire" programs.

• Why? It lowers the "risk" for the employer while giving you a 3–6 month window to prove you’re indispensable. It’s essentially a long-form interview where you get paid to learn.

2. Identify Your "Skills Gap"

Your degree taught you how to think, but an internship teaches you how to work. Use your goal-setting sessions to identify what software or soft skills you’re missing.

• Academic Knowledge: Theory, research, writing.

• Technical Skills: Excel, Python, CRM software, Adobe Suite.

• Workplace Experience: Project management, office etiquette, networking.

Your Goal: If you notice every job in your field requires Tableau or Salesforce, set a goal to spend 5 hours a week earning a free certification in that tool.

3. Networking is Your New Homework

In college, your success depended on your individual effort. In the job market, it often depends on who knows your work ethic.

• The "Alumni Goal": Reach out to 3 alumni from your university who are working in your dream industry.

• The Script: "Hi [Name], I recently graduated from [University] and saw you’re working at [Company]. I’d love to hear about how you made the transition from campus to your current role."

• The Result: This often leads to "hidden" internship opportunities that aren't even posted on job boards.

4. Treat "Soft Skills" as Hard Goals

During an internship or your first role, your ability to take initiative is more important than your GPA. Set goals for how you show up:

• Goal: "I will ask for feedback on one project every week."

• Goal: "I will volunteer for one cross-departmental task to meet people outside my immediate team."

5. Shift Your Mindset: The "Long Game"

Your first job doesn't have to be your dream job; it just needs to be the first job. Use this period to build a portfolio of "proof." Every task you complete in an internship is a bullet point for your next resume.

Tip: Don't just list your duties; list your impact. Did you save the team 5 hours a week by organizing a spreadsheet? That is a "win" you can take to your next interview.

Master Your Job Search: Why Goal Setting is Your Secret Weapon (BONUS: Pictures) - February 26, 2026

Searching for a job is often described as a marathon. But if you’ve been at it for a while, it can feel more like being lost in the woods without a compass. You’re moving, you’re tired, but are you actually getting anywhere?

The difference between a frustrating job search and a successful one usually comes down to one thing: Goal Setting.

One of my goals thorugh this blog is about making your professional life easier. Today, we’re breaking down how to move from "hopeful applicant" to "strategic job seeker" by setting goals that actually move the needle.

1. Stop Chasing "The Job" (For a Moment)

The biggest mistake job seekers make is setting only one goal: “Get a job.” The problem? That goal is too big, and you don’t have 100% control over the outcome. When you don't get a "yes" immediately, it feels like failure. Instead, shift your focus to Input Goals—the actions you take that lead to a hire.

2. Use the SMART Framework

You’ve likely heard of SMART goals, but here is how they apply specifically to your job search:

• Specific: Instead of "apply to jobs," try "apply to three Project Manager roles in the tech sector."

• Measurable: Use numbers. "Reach out to 2 new LinkedIn connections per day."

• Achievable: Don't aim for 50 applications a week if you have a family or a current job. Aim for 5 high-quality, tailored applications.

• Relevant: Ensure your tasks match your career path. Does that 3-hour webinar actually help you get the role you want?

• Time-bound: "I will have my portfolio updated by Friday at 5:00 PM."

3. Categorize Your Goals

To stay balanced, divide your goals into three "buckets":

• The Outreach Bucket: (Networking)

  • Goal: "I will conduct one informational interview per week to learn about company culture."

• The Skill Bucket: (Upskilling)

  • Goal: "I will complete the Google Data Analytics certification by the end of the month."

• The Presence Bucket: (Branding)

  • Goal: "I will post one insightful industry comment on LinkedIn every Tuesday and Thursday."

4. Celebrate the "Micro-Wins"

In a job search, you might get 20 "no’s" before one "yes." If you only celebrate the hire, you’ll burn out. Start celebrating the process:

• Celebrate a great follow-up email you sent.

• Celebrate a recruiter reaching out, even if the role wasn't a fit.

• Celebrate a week where you hit all your "Input Goals."

5. Review and Pivot

A goal isn't a life sentence. If you’ve sent 50 applications and haven't received a single interview invite, your goal shouldn't be "send 50 more." It should be "spend this week's goal hours working with a resume expert to fix my CV."

The Bottom Line: You can’t control the market, and you can’t control the hiring manager. But you can control your schedule, your effort, and your goals. When you track your progress, you turn a chaotic search into a manageable project.

The SID Paradox—Being Everywhere and Nowhere at Once (February 25, 2026)

Following up on my last post, I wanted to dive deeper into a reality that every Sports Information Director (SID) knows all too well: we are professional observers.

On Wednesday, the dust usually starts to settle from a tournament. The results are posted, the galleries are uploaded, and the "Pioneer Invitational" becomes a set of stats in the archive. But for those of us behind the scenes, the day after the tournament is often the day we realize how much of ourselves we poured into the event.

The Myth of the "Limited Role"

Yesterday, I mentioned my role was "limited" to photography and support. In hindsight, there is nothing limited about it. To capture a great athletic moment, you have to anticipate it. You have to know the student-athlete’s tendencies, the coach’s temperament, and the flow of the game.

As an SID, you are:

• The Historian: Recording the legacy of the program.

• The Shield: Supporting coaches so they can focus on the game.

• The Hype-Man: Ensuring our student-athletes feel seen and celebrated.

But who supports the supporter?

The "Mid-Week Reset"

If one day is about taking a timeout, the next day is about the Reset. We often talk to our athletes about "short memory"—forgetting the bad hole or the missed shot to focus on the next play. We need to apply that same grace to ourselves.

Taking time for yourself isn't a "break" from the work; it is maintenance for the machine that does the work. If I am burnt out, the photos lose their soul, the captions lose their wit, and the support I offer my team becomes hollow.

Three Ways to Reclaim Your Day:

1. Audit Your "Must-Dos": Not every idea needs to be a post. If a project doesn't serve the student-athlete or the college's mission, let it go to make room for rest.

2. Change Your Scenery: If you spent the weekend on the golf course, spend your Wednesday morning away from the screen. A change of environment triggers a change in perspective.

3. Acknowledge the Wins: We spend our lives tallying wins for others. Take a moment to acknowledge a personal win—maybe it was a perfectly framed shot of a birdie putt or just the fact that you prioritized your mental health over a Monday deadline.

Looking Ahead

The life of a student-athlete is fast-paced, and there’s always another game on the horizon. But I’ve learned that I am a much better storyteller for SMC when I allow myself to be a part of the story, rather than just a ghost in the machine.

Stay tuned—I’ll be sharing some of my favorite shots from the Invitational later this week. You'll see exactly why they were worth the wait.

Behind the Lens and Beyond the Clock: Finding Focus at the Pioneer Invitational (February 24, 2026)

I didn't forget to post something yesterday. In fact, if you follow the rhythm of college athletics, you know that "Monday" is often just "Sunday Part Two" or the kickoff to a 70-hour week.

Yesterday, I chose to intentionally step back from the digital noise to focus entirely on my work at the Pioneer Invitational. For those who haven’t been on the links, a golf tournament is a unique beast in the world of sports information. It isn't the fast-break pace of basketball or the roar of a Saturday football crowd; it’s a game of patience, precision, and quiet endurance.

My role this week is specific: capturing the action through my camera lens and providing a steady line of support for our coaches and the student-athletes representing Spartanburg Methodist College.

The View Through the Viewfinder There is something therapeutic about sports photography. When you’re looking through the viewfinder, the rest of the world disappears. You aren't worrying about the next press release, the social media schedule, or the mounting emails. You are simply waiting for that perfect follow-through, the moment the putt drops, or the look of determination on a Pioneer’s face.

Being "limited" to taking pictures and supporting the team wasn't a reduction in duty—it was a refinement of focus. It allowed me to be present for our student-athletes in a way that sitting behind a desk never could.

Why We Must "Unplug" to Plug In I’m writing this post because it’s a lesson we all need, especially in the "always-on" world of athletic communications. We often feel like if we aren't posting, we aren't working. But there is a massive difference between being busy and being effective.

We need to take time to focus on ourselves and our primary tasks, even—and especially—when the calendar is at its most crowded. Here’s why:

1. Quality Over Quantity: By stepping away from the "Monday post" grind, I was able to produce better content for the tournament and give my full mental energy to the staff and players on-site.

2. Mental Clarity: Constant multitasking is the enemy of creativity. Taking the time to breathe the fresh air at the Invitational reminded me why I love this job in the first place.

3. Modeling the Behavior: Our student-athletes are under immense pressure to perform, study, and maintain a presence. When they see their support staff focused, calm, and present, it sets a standard for their own mental approach to the game.

The Takeaway:
The Pioneer Invitational is not a success not just because of the scores on the cards, but because of the moments captured and the connections strengthened.

To my fellow SIDs and creators: Don't feel guilty for missing a deadline you set for yourself if it means you’re showing up more fully for the people right in front of you. Sometimes, the best way to move forward is to stand still, wait for the swing, and capture the moment.

When the Heat Rises: Why the Best Professionals Regulate, Not React (February 21, 2026)

Over the past few weeks, during the inevitable overlap of sports seasons, I’ve had a small window — very small, if I’m honest — to reflect.

Recently, College Sports Communicators has been recognizing its Lifetime Achievement Award recipients and 25-Year Award honorees. Those recognitions matter. Longevity matters. Impact matters.

But it also made me consider something else:

No external honor replaces internal regulation.

If we cannot manage ourselves — our emotions, our reactions, our perspective — then no award, title, or job will ever feel like enough.

So today’s post is about that. About regulation. Especially in busy seasons.

And for those in the middle of a job search, this is equally important. Self-compassion and self-management are foundational. The job is just one piece of the puzzle. Managing yourself well will always be more rewarding — and more sustainable — than any title you hold.

---

When Things Get Intense, Most People React

They fire off the email.
They send the text.
They snap in the meeting.
They make the call they can’t undo.

In athletic communications — and in leadership — intensity is not an exception.

It’s the job description.

Game nights.
Deadlines.
Coaches who need something now.
Administrators who needed it yesterday.
Student-athletes navigating emotional highs and lows.

Pressure is built into the profession.

The differentiator isn’t who avoids stress.

It’s who regulates under stress.

---

Don’t React. Regulate.

When the temperature rises, your first responsibility is not to respond.

It’s to regulate.

Slow your breathing.
Move your body — even if it’s just a walk down the hallway.
Step away from the keyboard.

You are managing your physiological state before you manage the situation.

Because once you hit send — once you say it in the meeting — once you post it publicly — you don’t get that moment back.

Emotional control is a competitive advantage.

---

Control the Controllables

After you regulate, shift your focus.

Ask a simple question: What can I actually control?

Not the officiating.
Not budget limitations.
Not institutional politics.
Not the last-second loss.

You control:

• Your preparation

• Your effort

• Your attitude

• Your honesty

• Your follow-up

In athletic communications, that might look like:

• Double-checking the stat line instead of rushing it.

• Owning a mistake instead of deflecting it.

• Delivering difficult information clearly instead of softening it into confusion.

• Maintaining a consistent tone when others do not.

Professionals don’t burn energy wrestling what’s outside their lane.

They execute what’s inside it.

---

Stress Is Not the Enemy

Stress is part of the arena.

If you care about outcomes — about serving coaches, administrators, and student-athletes well — you will feel it.

The question isn’t whether stress shows up.

The question is: How do you show up when it does?

Do you become reactive?
Or do you become steady?

Your reputation is built in those moments.

Not when things are calm.
Not when the scoreboard favors you.
Not when inboxes are quiet.

But when everything is loud — and you choose composure anyway.

---

The Choice Is Daily

Regulation isn’t a one-time decision.

It’s a habit.

You build it in small moments:

• Pausing before replying.

• Asking one more clarifying question.

• Taking responsibility without excuse.

• Choosing professionalism when venting would be easier.

Over time, that consistency compounds.

In crowded applicant pools.
In high-pressure environments.
In leadership conversations.

Composure stands out.

Stress is part of life.
Intensity is part of the job.

How you show up in it?

That’s a choice.

Standing Out in Crowded Applicant Pools (February 20, 2026)

 In today’s job market, hitting "Apply" is the easy part. The hard part? Actually being seen. With remote work expanding talent pools globally and AI making it easier than ever to blast out hundreds of resumes, most job postings are drowning in volume.

When a hiring manager has 500 resumes for one opening, they aren't looking for reasons to hire you—they are looking for reasons to screen you out. To move from the "No" pile to the "Shortlist," you have to stop being a generic applicant and start being a specific solution.

Small presentation advantages matter more than people think. Here is how to create that separation.

---

The Power of "The Mirror"

The biggest mistake applicants make is sending a "one-size-fits-all" resume. To a recruiter, a general resume feels like spam. To stand out, you must mirror the job description language strategically.

• Identify the "Power Keywords": Does the listing emphasize "stakeholder management" or "cross-functional collaboration"? Use their exact phrasing.

• The 80/20 Rule: You don't need to rewrite your entire history. Spend 80% of your time tailoring the top third of your resume—your summary and your most recent role—to reflect the specific needs of the posting.

---

Customization is a Signal of Intent

Hiring is expensive and risky. Employers want to know you actually want this job, not just any job.

• Tailor the Cover Letter: Use the cover letter to answer the questions a resume can't: Why us? Why now? Mention a recent company achievement or a specific challenge they are facing that you are uniquely equipped to solve.

• Highlight Aligned Achievements: If the job description mentions "scaling operations," move your bullet point about growing a team of five to ten to the very top of your list. Make the most relevant information impossible to miss.

---

The "Cleanliness" Factor: Formatting as a Proxy

We like to think we are judged solely on our merits, but human psychology says otherwise. A cluttered, poorly formatted resume signals a cluttered, poorly organized mind.

Professionalism is signaled through:

• Consistency: Are your dates aligned? Are your bullet points the same style?

• White Space: Give the reader’s eyes a break. A wall of text is an invitation to hit "Delete."

• PDF is King: Never send a Word doc unless explicitly asked. Formatting breaks across different devices; a PDF stays locked exactly how you intended it.

---

The "First 10 Seconds" Test

A recruiter spends an average of six to ten seconds on a initial resume scan. In that window, they should be able to identify:

1. Your current title.

2. Your core area of expertise.

3. Two major "wins" that prove you can do the job.

If they have to hunt for this information, you’ve already lost.

---

Final Thought: Effort is the Ultimate Filter

The reason most people don't customize their applications is simple: it’s hard work. It takes time. But in a crowded pool, effort is a competitive advantage. When you show up with a tailored, polished, and strategically mirrored application, you aren't just an applicant—you're the obvious choice.

The Follow-Up Advantage: How to Win by Simply Not Disappearing (February 19, 2026)

 In a world of automated replies and "ghosting," there is one professional habit that remains the ultimate low-effort, high-reward differentiator: the follow-up.

Most professionals assume that once a meeting ends or an application is submitted, the ball is entirely in the other person’s court. They wait. They wonder. They eventually give up. But the highest performers know that the "action" doesn't stop when the conversation does.

Most people do not follow up. That alone creates separation.

---

The Universal Differentiator

Following up isn't just a "nice to do" for interviews; it is a universal tool that applies to every stage of the professional journey.

• After Applications: It signals that you aren't just "spraying and praying" your resume, but that you are genuinely invested in this specific role.

• After Informational Calls: It transforms a one-off chat into a relationship. It shows you actually listened to the advice given.

• After Networking Events: It rescues your connection from the "business card graveyard" and moves it into a digital space where it can grow.

• After Interviews: It’s your final chance to clarify a point, reinforce your value, and show you’re a closer.

• Even After Rejection: This is the "secret menu" of networking. Following up gracefully after a "no" builds a bridge for future opportunities when the first choice doesn't work out.

---

What Your Follow-Up Is Actually Saying

When you send a timely, professional follow-up, you aren't just "checking in." You are sending a subtle but powerful set of signals about your character:

• Maturity: You can handle professional interactions with poise and persistence.

• Respect: You value the other person's time enough to acknowledge the interaction.

• Reliability: You do what you say you’re going to do. If you follow up on a coffee chat, you’ll likely follow up on a client deliverable.

• Strong Communication Habits: You demonstrate that you won't let things fall through the cracks.

---

The Anatomy of a High-Impact Follow-Up

A great follow-up isn't a nudge or a "just circling back" email. It should be concise and value-additive.

1. The Gratitude: Thank them specifically for their time or a specific insight they shared.

2. The "Anchor": Mention a specific detail from the conversation to prove you were paying attention.

3. The Value/Action: Mention a resource you discussed or provide a brief update on a task you took away from the meeting.

4. The Low-Pressure Close: Reiterate interest without sounding desperate.

The 24/48 Rule: For interviews and events, follow up within 24 hours. For applications or general outreach, a 48-to-72-hour window is usually the sweet spot for a "second touch."

---

Separation via Persistence

The bar for professional excellence is often lower than we think. While others are waiting for permission to be remembered, the proactive professional secures their spot by simply staying in the frame.

Don't leave your career to chance. If an interaction was worth your time, it’s worth a follow-up.

Networking is Not a Numbers Game (February 18, 2026)

 We’ve all been there: a LinkedIn feed full of "connections" who are essentially strangers, or a stack of business cards from an event where you can’t quite remember a single face. Somewhere along the way, we started treating networking like a game of digital Pokémon—trying to "catch 'em all" rather than actually getting to know them.

But here is the reality: Networking isn’t about collecting contacts. It’s about building professional familiarity and trust.

A network of 50 people who know your work ethic and would stake their reputation on you is infinitely more powerful than a network of 5,000 who barely recognize your name.

---

Quality Over Connection Count

In the professional world, volume does not equal value. A "cold" network is just a list of names. A "warm" network is a community. To move from a collector to a connector, you need to shift your focus to relevance. Strategic networking is surgical, not a scattergun approach.

---

The Pillars of Strategic Networking

If you want to build a network that actually moves the needle for your career, focus on these five intentional habits:

• Targeted Outreach: Instead of messaging everyone at a company, identify the people in the specific roles or departments where you want to grow. Reach out with a specific "why" that isn't just "I want a job."

• Deep Industry Research: Before you ever hit "send" on a request, understand the person’s world. What are the current trends in their niche? What challenges are they likely facing? Knowledge is the best icebreaker.

• Informational Conversations: Shift the goal from "getting a referral" to "gaining perspective." Ask about their journey, their pitfalls, and their "if I were starting today" advice. People love to share their expertise when they don't feel like they're being "used" for a lead.

• The 24-Hour Follow-Up: An event connection is only a lead until you follow up. Send a brief, personalized note mentioning a specific detail from your conversation. It transforms a fleeting moment into a documented relationship.

• Ongoing Light-Touch Communication: This is where most people fail. Networking isn't a one-time transaction; it’s maintenance. Send an interesting article, congratulate them on a promotion, or share a resource. Stay top-of-mind without being high-maintenance.

---

The Currency of Trust

Trust is the only currency that matters in networking. When someone refers you for a role, they are putting their own social capital on the line. They won't do that for a "contact," but they will do it for a known entity.

Strategic networking ensures that when an opportunity arises, your name is the one that naturally surfaces in the room—not because you’re on their friend list, but because they trust your relevance.

The Rule of Relevancy: One meaningful conversation with a peer in your target field is worth more than 100 "I’d like to add you to my professional network" clicks.

---

Stop Collecting, Start Connecting

Your network should be an ecosystem that supports your growth and allows you to support others. If you look at your list of connections and realize it’s mostly "noise," it’s time to start pruning and focusing on the few that matter.

The "Show Your Work" Advantage: Portfolios for Non-Creatives (February 17, 2026)

 For decades, the portfolio was a tool reserved for the "creatives." If you weren't a graphic designer, an architect, or a copywriter, a two-page black-and-white resume was your only currency.

But the job market has evolved. In an era of "show, don't tell," a resume claims you have a skill, but a portfolio provides the proof. Whether you are in operations, finance, project management, or sales, building a visual or structured record of your wins is the fastest way to leapfrog the competition.

---

Moving Beyond the Resume

A resume is a list of promises; a portfolio is a gallery of evidence. Employers are increasingly risk-averse—they want to see that you’ve solved problems similar to theirs before they even hop on a Zoom call with you.

If you think your work "doesn't translate" to a portfolio, you're likely overlooking the tangible assets you create every day.

---

What a "Non-Creative" Portfolio Looks Like

You don't need a high-end photography site. You need a clean, organized space—a personal website, a Notion page, or even a polished PDF—that showcases these six elements:

• Case Studies: A 3-step breakdown of a major challenge you faced: The Problem, Your Action, and The Result.

• Project Summaries: A high-level overview of a massive launch or transition you spearheaded.

• Before-and-After Examples: Did you take a chaotic spreadsheet and turn it into a streamlined tracking system? Show the screenshot of the "before" and the "after."

• Data Dashboards: (With sensitive info redacted!) Show how you visualize information to make better business decisions.

• Presentations: That slide deck that convinced the board to pivot? That’s an asset. It shows your ability to synthesize information and influence leaders.

• Process Improvements: A flow chart or a written SOP (Standard Operating Procedure) that you authored to make a department more efficient.

---

The "Applied Skill" Factor

A simple personal website or a well-structured "Evidence Document" does something a resume can't: it demonstrates your taste and your process.

When a hiring manager sees a clean, logical breakdown of how you managed a $500k budget, they aren't just looking at the money; they are seeing your organization, your communication style, and your tech stack in action.

The Golden Rule: If you can’t show the actual work due to NDAs or privacy, show the methodology. Explain the "how" behind the "what."

---

How to Start (Without Overthinking It)

You don't need to be a web developer to build this. Start small:

1. The "Wins" Folder: Create a folder on your desktop and drop in every compliment, successful report, or project plan you finish.

2. Choose Your Medium: Use a tool like Canva for a PDF, Notion for a digital doc, or Carrd for a one-page website.

3. The One-Pager: Start with just three strong examples of your work. Quality beats quantity every time.

In 2026, the candidate who shows proof will always beat the candidate who only shows a list of duties.

Stop Listing Duties. Start Showing Results.(February 16, 2026)

 We’ve all seen it—or written it. You’re updating your LinkedIn or polishing a resume, and you reach for the "safe" words. Words like managed, handled, or the ultimate offender: “Responsible for.”

Here is a hard truth from the other side of the hiring desk: Employers don't hire responsibilities. They hire results.

When you tell a hiring manager you were "responsible for project management," you’re essentially telling them what was on your job description. You aren't telling them if you were actually good at it. To stand out in 2026, you need to pivot from what you did to the impact you made.

---

The Anatomy of an Impact Statement

The difference between a mediocre application and a "must-hire" candidate lies in the shift from passive duties to active outcomes.

The Shift:

• The Old Way: “Responsible for managing projects.” (Vague, passive, expected).

• The Impact Way: “Led a cross-functional team to streamline workflow, reducing processing time by 18%.” (Specific, data-driven, impressive).

---

The "Impact Six": What to Quantify

If you’re struggling to find your "impact," look at your daily work through these six lenses:

1. Metrics: What numbers moved because you were there? (Conversion rates, click-throughs, user retention).

2. Efficiency Gains: How much time did you save? Did you automate a manual task that used to take five hours a week?

3. Revenue Impact: Did you directly contribute to sales, or indirectly help close a deal?

4. Process Improvements: Did you inherit a mess and leave a system? (e.g., "Implemented a new CRM that eliminated data silos").

5. Growth Indicators: Did you scale a department, a social following, or a client base?

6. Outcomes: What was the "final act" of your project? Don't just say you "worked on a launch"—tell us the product hit the market two weeks ahead of schedule.

---

Why Impact Differentiates You

In any field—from software engineering to creative design—skills are often a baseline. Most applicants will have the required certifications or years of experience.

Impact is your unique signature. It proves that you don't just occupy a seat; you add value. It transforms you from a "cost" (a salary the company has to pay) into an "investment" (someone who will make or save the company more than they cost).

Pro-Tip: If you don't have the exact numbers, use ranges or frequency. "Coordinated 5+ weekly sprints for a team of 12" is still more impactful than "Ran meetings."

---

Take Action: The 50% Rule

Look at your current resume or portfolio. If more than 50% of your bullet points start with "Responsible for" or "Assisted with," it’s time for an audit. Rewrite three bullets today using the Action + Context + Result formula.

---

Want to Read More

Your Resume Is Getting Rejected Before a Human Even Sees It (Here's How to Fix That) - article by Mary Southern

Love the Work. Lead Through Relationships (February 14, 2026)

 

A Valentine’s Day Reflection on Relational Capital in College Athletics

I hadn’t planned to publish today.

But Valentine’s Day invites reflection — and in college athletics, relationships are not adjacent to the work. They are the work.

In an industry measured by wins, budgets, and metrics, the most durable programs — and the most sustainable careers — are built on something less visible:

Relational capital.

Whether you serve in athletic communications, administration, coaching, or operations, your effectiveness rises or falls on the quality of the relationships you build and steward.

Here are a few reminders.

---

Relationships Are Your Real Resume

Staffs turn over. Conferences realign. Titles change.

Your reputation remains.

A résumé opens the door. Relationships determine whether you’re invited back.

• Honor timelines.

• Follow through on small commitments.

• Guard trust carefully.

Credibility compounds — and so does inconsistency.

---

Communication Is a Competitive Advantage

Most departmental friction isn’t about effort. It’s about clarity.

The strongest professionals:

• Clarify expectations early.

• Address issues directly when possible.

• Confirm alignment instead of assuming it.

Strong communication builds strong culture. Strong culture sustains success.

---

A Lesson I’ve Learned

Early in my career, I was focused on output — game notes prepared, releases written, coverage secured. I measured value in productivity.

What I’ve learned over time is that people remember how you handled pressure more than how quickly you turned a document. They remember whether you stayed solution-oriented during a tough loss. They remember whether you supported a coach when messaging was difficult.

The work matters.
But how you work with people matters more.

---

Serve Before You Need Something

Transactional networking is obvious. Service-based relationships endure.

• Make introductions without expectation.

• Promote colleagues publicly.

• Offer value before asking for it.

Relational equity built in steady seasons sustains you in challenging ones.

---

Follow-Up Is Professionalism

A recap email.
An update to a mentor.
A check-in without an agenda.

Follow-up communicates respect. It signals intentionality. It keeps relationships active rather than archived.

---

Invest Laterally

It’s natural to network upward.

But your peers today will be tomorrow’s athletic directors, conference administrators, and senior leaders.

Build authentic relationships across campuses and roles. Celebrate others’ growth. Stay connected beyond job changes.

College athletics is smaller than it feels.

---

Protect What Sustains You

This industry demands nights, weekends, and constant responsiveness.

Sustainable leadership requires boundaries.

Protect time with family.
Set communication norms.
Remember that availability is not the same as effectiveness.

Longevity is a leadership skill.

---

Gratitude Is Strategic

Appreciation strengthens culture.

Thank the operations staff after a long event weekend.
Recognize the athletic trainer who handled a crisis quietly.
Acknowledge the student assistant who stayed late.

People support leaders who notice people.

---

Final Thought

Championships matter. Budgets matter. Wins and losses matter.

But relationships determine culture.
Relationships determine longevity.
Relationships determine leadership.

Love the work.
Lead through relationships.

In college athletics, that’s what endures.

Avoiding early career burnout in athletic communications (February 13, 2026)

Athletic communications (or Sports Information) is a grind that doesn’t just ask for your time—it demands your weekends, your holidays, and a significant chunk of your identity. In an industry where the "hustle" is glorified, burnout isn't just a possibility; for many, it’s the default setting.

Here is an expansion on how to navigate those high-pressure early years without losing your love for the game.

---

1. Redefine "Always Available"

The biggest trap for young SIDs is the feeling that a missed text or a delayed post-game release is a catastrophic failure.

• Set Communication Boundaries: Just because you can answer a text from a coach at 11:00 PM doesn't mean you should. Establish "dark hours" where the phone stays on the nightstand.

• The 90% Rule: You don't have to produce a Pulitzer-level feature for every mid-week tennis match. Learn where to give 110% (Championships, National TV games) and where a clean, efficient box score and recap are more than enough.

2. Master the "Off-Season" (Even if it’s short)

In college athletics, seasons bleed into one another. If you handle Fall, Winter, and Spring sports, your "break" might only be a few weeks in July.

• Aggressive PTO: Do not let your vacation days expire. Even if you just stay home and play video games, taking five consecutive days off forces your brain to detach from the 24/7 news cycle.

• Physical Distance: If you are off the clock, stay away from the office and the stadium. The "sight-memory" of your workspace keeps your stress hormones elevated.

3. Build a Support System Outside the Press Box

If all your friends are also SIDs, every social outing will eventually turn into a vent session about work.

• The "Non-Sports" Friend: Maintain at least one hobby or friend group that has zero connection to athletics. It provides a necessary perspective shift that there is a world moving forward regardless of whether your live stats crashed.

• Peer Mentorship: Connect with SIDs at other schools. Often, talking to someone who understands the job but isn't your direct supervisor allows for a safer space to decompress.

4. Systems Over Sweat

Burnout often stems from the feeling of being "buried." Efficiency is your best defense.

• Templates are Life: Don't write every game preview from scratch. Have "skeleton" documents for every sport so you’re only filling in the new narrative.

• Automate Socials: Use scheduling tools for non-time-sensitive content. If you can schedule your "Game Day" graphics on Monday, your Saturday will be 20% less frantic.

---

The Reality Check: "It’s Sports, Not Surgery"

It sounds harsh, but it’s the most liberating realization an SID can have: No one dies if the game notes have a typo. The stakes in athletic communications feel massive because of the passion involved, but holding yourself to an impossible standard of perfection is the fastest route to a career change.

Pro Tip: Keep a "Win Folder." Save the nice emails from parents, the thank-you notes from student-athletes, and the clips of your best work. When you're staring at a spreadsheet at 2:00 AM, looking at that folder reminds you why you started.

Standing Out in Crowded Applicant Pools (February 12, 2026)

 Athletic communications positions attract volume.

For many roles, especially at the assistant or entry level, hiring managers can receive dozens — sometimes hundreds — of applications.

Strong candidates get overlooked every year.

Not because they lack ability.

But because they look like everyone else.

If you want to stand out in a crowded applicant pool, you have to think strategically about differentiation — not just qualification.

---

Qualification Gets You Considered. Differentiation Gets You Remembered.

Most applicants meet the baseline:

• Writing experience

• Social media management

• Game day coverage

• Internship or GA background

The hiring manager expects that.

What they’re scanning for is something else:

• Clarity

• Professionalism

• Evidence of impact

• Fit

If your résumé and materials look interchangeable with 40 others, you’ve already made it harder for them to advocate for you in the room.

Your goal is not just to be “good.”

Your goal is to be memorable for the right reasons.

---

Customize or Compete at a Disadvantage

One of the fastest ways to blend in is sending the same résumé and cover letter everywhere.

If the job posting emphasizes:

• Digital growth

• Media relations leadership

• Creative storytelling

• Statistical expertise

Your materials should reflect that emphasis in structure and language.

Reorder bullet points.
Highlight relevant sports.
Adjust your summary.

Hiring managers should not have to search for your alignment.

Make it obvious.

---

A Tailored Cover Letter Still Matters

In athletic communications, writing is core to the role.

A generic cover letter signals one of two things:

1. You rushed the application.

2. Writing may not be your strength.

Neither helps you.

A strong cover letter:

• Mentions the institution specifically

• References a program, initiative, or strength

• Clearly explains why you fit their structure

It should feel written for that job — because it should be.

---

Show Initiative Beyond the Job Description

If you want to separate yourself, demonstrate value beyond listed responsibilities.

Examples:

• Link a portfolio with curated, relevant work

• Include analytics screenshots for social growth

• Reference creative campaigns you executed

• Share measurable impact

You’re applying for a communications role. Communicate your value.

Don’t make the committee assume it.

---

Professional Presentation Is a Differentiator

Details matter more than people realize.

Check:

• Formatting consistency

• Grammar and punctuation

• Clean layout

• File naming (e.g., LastName_Resume.pdf)

• Functional links

If you’re applying to produce professional content, your materials are the first test.

Sloppy execution quietly eliminates candidates.

---

Leverage Relationships Without Overplaying Them

If you’ve networked intentionally, this is where it helps.

A brief note to a contact saying:

“I applied for the Assistant AD for Communications role and wanted to share my materials directly. I appreciate your time.”

That’s not pressure.

It’s awareness.

Your name now moves from an anonymous PDF to a known professional.

That’s an advantage.

---

Follow-Up Separates the Serious from the Passive

Most applicants never follow up.

After applying, if appropriate and after a reasonable period, a short, professional check-in can reinforce interest:

“I wanted to reiterate my enthusiasm for the position and appreciation for your time reviewing applications.”

After interviews, follow-up is non-negotiable.

Thank-you messages that reference specific discussion points demonstrate attentiveness and professionalism.

Again, hiring managers notice.

Follow-up communicates maturity.

---

Control What You Can Control

You can’t control:

• Internal candidates

• Budget limitations

• Institutional politics

• Search timelines

You can control:

• Preparation

• Customization

• Presentation

• Professionalism

• Follow-up

When applicant pools are crowded, marginal advantages matter.

Small edges accumulate.

---

Final Thought

Standing out isn’t about being flashy.

It’s about being intentional.

It’s about aligning your materials, messaging, relationships, and follow-up in a way that makes it easy for someone to say:

“This candidate gets it.”

In crowded applicant pools, clarity beats noise.

Professionalism beats volume.

And consistency beats luck.

Keep refining. Keep aligning. Keep following up.

That’s how you separate yourself.

Managing Early Career Transitions in Athletic Communications (February 11, 2026)

Early careers in athletic communications rarely follow straight lines.

Short-term roles.
Graduate assistantships.
Internships.
One- or two-year stops.

This isn’t instability.

It’s the industry.

The key is learning how to manage transitions strategically rather than reacting to them emotionally.

---

Short Tenures Aren’t Red Flags — Poor Framing Is

Many professionals worry that moving roles early looks bad.

In reality, hiring managers understand the structure of the field.

What matters is:

• What you gained

• What you contributed

• Why you moved

If you can articulate growth, transitions become assets.

---

Always Be Building While You’re Working

Every role should move you closer to your long-term goals.

Ask:

• What skills am I developing here?

• What responsibilities can I grow into?

• What gaps can I fill?

If you’re not learning, you’re plateauing.

---

Leave Every Role Better Than You Found It

Reputations travel quickly in athletic communications.

Before transitioning:

• Document your work

• Organize files and processes

• Communicate clearly with supervisors

• Offer to help with transitions

Professional exits matter.

They shape references and future opportunities.

---

Don’t Burn Bridges — Build Them

Even if a role wasn’t ideal, maintain relationships.

Your former supervisor may:

• Recommend you

• Alert you to openings

• Advocate for you later

Career longevity is built on trust.

---

Follow-Up Still Matters After You Leave

Stay in touch.

A quick check-in, congratulations, or shared article keeps relationships alive.

Transitions don’t end relationships — they evolve them.

---

Final Thought

Early career movement is normal in athletic communications.

What defines you isn’t how often you move — it’s how you grow, how you communicate, and how you exit.

Manage transitions intentionally.

Your future self will thank you.

Interviewing Like a Communicator (February 10, 2026)

In athletic communications, interviews aren’t just about answering questions.

They’re auditions.

Hiring managers aren’t only evaluating what you say — they’re evaluating how you communicate.

Your clarity.
Your structure.
Your tone.
Your preparation.

In many ways, the interview is the most important piece of communication you’ll produce in the hiring process.

---

You’re Always Telling a Story

Every answer you give tells a story about how you think and how you work.

Strong interview answers:

• Are organized

• Provide context

• Highlight impact

• End with results or reflection

Rambling answers, vague examples, or surface-level responses signal a lack of preparation — even if your experience is solid.

Before interviews, prepare story banks around:

• Writing and content creation

• Media relations scenarios

• Crisis or high-pressure moments

• Collaboration with coaches or staff

• Times you had to adapt quickly

If you can frame your experiences clearly, you demonstrate the exact skill set the role requires.

---

Answer Like You’d Write

Think of your interview responses the same way you’d approach a recap or feature:

• Lead: Set the scene

• Details: Explain your role and actions

• Outcome: Share the result or lesson

Example structure:

“In my role at ___, we faced ___. My responsibility was ___. I approached it by ___. The result was ___, and what I learned was ___.”

This keeps answers concise, focused, and effective.

---

Preparation Is Respect

Research the department thoroughly.

Know:

• The sports they emphasize

• Recent accomplishments

• Their communication style

• Staff structure

When you reference specific teams, initiatives, or challenges, it shows investment.

Generic answers suggest generic interest.

---

Your Questions Matter as Much as Your Answers

Strong candidates ask thoughtful questions.

Examples:

• How does the department define success in this role?

• What communication platforms are you looking to grow?

• How do staff members collaborate during peak seasons?

Avoid questions easily answered on the website.

Your questions should reflect curiosity, awareness, and long-term thinking.

---

Follow-Up Reinforces the Impression

Thank-you notes after interviews are essential.

Reference:

• A specific topic discussed

• Your enthusiasm for the role

• How your skills align with their needs

It’s your final piece of communication in the process.

Make it count.

---

Final Thought

Interviewing like a communicator means:

• Preparing stories

• Communicating clearly

• Listening actively

• Following up professionally

If you treat the interview as content — structured, intentional, and audience-focused — you’ll stand out.

Because at the end of the day, the interview is a communication test.

Presenting on Sports Communication at BOSCA Regional Conference (February 9, 2026)

Today, I’m grateful for the opportunity to present on Sports Communication at the BOSCA Regional Conference in Greenville, SC.

Presenting at a conference founded by my friend Jim Abbott makes the experience especially meaningful. Jim has had a lasting impact on my professional journey since the day we first met, and I’m thankful for his leadership and vision in creating a space that brings communicators together to learn, connect, and grow.

I’m looking forward to both making new connections and renewing familiar ones throughout the day.

📌 Blog update: Regular posts on SIDAssistant.blogspot.com will resume on Tuesday, February 10. If there’s a topic related to sports information, athletic communications, branding, or career development that you’d like to see covered, I’d love to hear from you—please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Thank you to BOSCA for the opportunity, and to everyone who continues to support and engage with SIDAssistant.blogspot.com as a resource for sports communicators at every stage of their journey.

The Follow-Up Advantage: How Small Actions Create Big Career Opportunities (February 7, 2026)

 rful follow-up isn’t tied to immediate opportunity.

It’s the periodic check-in:

• Congratulating someone on a promotion

• Sharing an article they might find useful

• Commenting on a project they worked on

These touchpoints keep relationships alive.

When positions open months later, your name comes to mind because you stayed present.

That’s how networking turns into opportunity.

---

Treat Follow-Up Like a Professional System

Create structure around it.

Maintain a simple list of:

• Who you’ve connected with

• When you last followed up

• Key notes from conversations

You track stats, deadlines, and content calendars.

Track relationships the same way.

Career growth deserves operational discipline.

---

Follow-Up Reflects How You’ll Do the Job

Here’s something hiring managers notice:

If you follow up consistently during the job search, they assume you’ll follow up in the role.

That means:

• Media outreach

• Internal communication

• Project management

• Relationship building

Your habits now signal your habits later.

Follow-up is not just courtesy — it’s proof of competence.

---

Final Thought

Talent opens doors.

Follow-up keeps them open.

In athletic communications, success isn’t built on one application, one interview, or one conversation.

It’s built through consistent communication, professionalism, and relationships over time.

So apply.
Network.
Interview.

Then follow up.

Because the smallest actions often create the biggest career breakthroughs.

Networking with Purpose: Moving Beyond Contact Collecting (February 6, 2026)

I’ve scheduled this post to go live just ahead of my first guest speaking appearance of 2026 with the students at the University of Kansas.

In athletic communications, networking isn’t optional—it’s the profession. Media relations, coach dynamics, campus partnerships, and external vendors all require it. Your career already depends on building connections, yet when it comes to the job search, many treat networking like a mindless numbers game.

They send dozens of cold requests, attend one conference, collect a stack of business cards, and wait.

That isn’t networking. That’s contact collecting. Real networking is intentional, strategic, and relationship-driven.

1. Purpose Beats Volume Every Time

You don’t need hundreds of industry connections; you need meaningful ones. Instead of asking, “How many people can I meet?” ask:

• Who is doing the job I actually want?

• Who works at the programs I admire?

• Who has followed a career path similar to mine?

• Who consistently shares valuable insights or opportunities?

Purposeful networking starts with clarity. If you don’t know what roles or environments you’re pursuing, your outreach becomes unfocused—and people can sense that. Be specific about your goals before you reach out.

2. Lead With Curiosity, Not Requests

The fastest way to stall a conversation is to open with: "Do you know of any jobs?" That puts immediate pressure on someone who doesn’t know you yet. Instead, approach networking like a feature interview. Ask about:

• Their career trajectory and what prepared them for their current role.

• The skills they use most in their day-to-day operations.

• The mistakes they would avoid if they were starting over.

• Advice for someone trying to break into the industry.

People enjoy sharing their experiences. That’s how rapport forms. Jobs come later—through trust.

3. Show That You’ve Done Your Homework

Demonstrate that your outreach isn't random. Mention a specific project they led, a post they shared, or a recent career move they made.

"I saw your transition from Division II to Division I and would love to hear how you navigated that process."

A line like that immediately separates you from the generic "Add to Network" crowd. Intentional outreach gets responses.

4. Conferences Are Starting Points, Not Finish Lines

Events like CSC are valuable, but attendance alone doesn't build a network. The real work happens in the 48 hours afterward.

• During the event: Take notes on who you meet and capture contact info immediately.

• After the event: Follow up. This is where most people fail.

A connection "expires" if there is no thank you or continuation. A simple message works: "I appreciated hearing about your path at XYZ and your advice on portfolio development. I’d love to stay in touch."

5. Think Long-Term, Not Transactional

Build a professional ecosystem, not a one-time transaction. Check in occasionally without asking for anything: share an article, congratulate them on a promotion, or comment on their work.

These small touches compound. Months later, when a job opens or your name comes up in a meeting, you won’t be a stranger. You’ll be a known entity.

6. Keep a Networking Tracker

Treat your network with the same professional rigor you apply to game stats. Maintain a simple list of:

• Names and organizations.

• How/where you connected.

• Last contact date and key notes from the conversation.

---

Final Thought

The best opportunities in athletic communications rarely come from cold applications. They come from conversations, credibility, and being remembered.

Don’t just meet people. Follow up. Stay present. Build something real. That is networking with purpose.