The Ugly Phase Is Part of the Process (July 31, 2026)

 There comes a point in almost every career when you wonder if you're making any progress.

You apply for jobs and hear nothing back.

You start a new role and suddenly feel like you know less than everyone else.

You launch a business, publish content, or begin networking, only to question whether any of it is working.

If that sounds familiar, you're not alone.

I recently read an insightful article from Korn Ferry titled "The Ugly Phase: Can You Survive It?" It describes the uncomfortable period between being a beginner and becoming proficient. It's that season when you've left the comfort of what you know, but you haven't yet reached confidence in what's next.

The article reminded me of something I've seen throughout my 27 years in college athletics communications.

Every successful professional I've met has gone through an ugly phase.

The graduate assistant learning to manage media relations for the first time.

The first-year athletic communications director trying to juggle multiple sports.

The coach taking over a struggling program.

The student preparing for their first job interview.

The entrepreneur launching a new idea before anyone knows their name.

No one skips this stage.

The difference isn't talent.

It's persistence.

Don't Mistake Discomfort for Failure

When things feel awkward, many people assume they're doing something wrong.

In reality, you're probably doing something new.

Growth almost always feels uncomfortable before it feels rewarding.

That's why the people who succeed continue asking questions, seeking mentors, building relationships, and improving one day at a time.

Confidence isn't something you wait to feel.

It's something you earn through repetition.

My Challenge to You

If you're in your own ugly phase today, don't quit because the path feels difficult.

Instead, ask yourself:

• What am I learning?
• Who can help me improve?
• What can I do better tomorrow than I did today?

Small improvements create remarkable careers.

Continue Reading

The Korn Ferry article provides additional research and insights into why this stage is so important for long-term success.

👉 Read it here:
https://www.kornferry.com/insights/briefings-magazine/issue-74/the-ugly-phase-can-you-survive-it

You may be in the ugly phase today.

That doesn't mean you're failing.

It may simply mean you're becoming the professional you're meant to be.

Be Curious Before You Try to Be Impressive (July 20, 2026)

Why Questions Often Create Better Opportunities Than Answers

Most students believe they need to have all the right answers before they can earn an internship, land a job, or build meaningful relationships.

They spend hours trying to sound smarter, more experienced, or more accomplished than they actually feel.

But here's something I have learned after more than 25 years in college athletics:

The people who leave the strongest impression usually aren't the ones doing all the talking. They're the ones asking the best questions.

Curiosity is one of the most underrated career skills you can develop.

At First Glance

Think about the last conversation you had with someone you admired.

Were you trying to impress them?

Or were you trying to learn from them?

There's a big difference.

One approach focuses on yourself.

The other focuses on the other person.

People remember how interested you were in them far longer than they remember how much you talked about yourself.

Why This Matters

Whether you're interviewing for an internship, attending a conference, networking on LinkedIn, or sitting across from a hiring manager, curiosity changes the conversation.

Instead of trying to prove you're qualified, you're trying to understand.

Instead of trying to sound perfect, you're trying to grow.

That mindset immediately makes you more authentic.

Hiring managers don't expect college students to know everything.

They do expect them to be coachable.

And coachable people ask questions.

Questions like:

• What does success look like during the first six months?
• What separates your best interns from everyone else?
• If you could teach every new employee one thing, what would it be?
• What's one challenge your department is working through right now?

Those questions communicate something powerful:

"I'm here to learn."

That attitude is difficult to teach.

Confidence Isn't Something You Find—It's Something You Build (July 16, 2026)

Before I get into today's topic, I need to share something that happened this morning

I hit the snooze button on my alarm clock.

A few minutes later, I heard the familiar ding of an email notification. It was a message from my boss.

For many people, those are ordinary moments. For me, they haven't always been.

Throughout my career in college athletics, something as simple as an email notification or an unexpected phone call from a supervisor could instantly raise my anxiety. My mind would race.

"Did I make a mistake?"

"Did I forget something?"

"Am I about to be criticized?"

Those thoughts chipped away at my confidence over time.

It wasn't until I made a commitment to work on myself—through mentorship, counseling, honest reflection, and learning to challenge those thoughts—that I began to notice a change. Those same sounds haven't disappeared, but my response to them has.

That experience taught me something I wish I had learned much earlier.

Confidence isn't something you suddenly wake up with.

It's something you build.

One of the most common questions I hear from students and young professionals is, "How do I become more confident?"

My answer usually surprises them.

You don't become confident first.

You become confident because of what you repeatedly do.

Many people believe confidence magically appears after landing the internship, getting the graduate assistantship, or accepting their first full-time position. The reality is much different. Confidence is built long before those milestones ever happen.

It's built through preparation.

It's built through repetition.

It's built by keeping the promises you make to yourself.

Confidence Is Earned in Small Moments

Think about the people you've met who carry themselves with confidence. They probably don't know everything, and they certainly haven't avoided failure. What they have done is accumulate hundreds—if not thousands—of small victories.

They show up early.

They send the follow-up email.

They ask thoughtful questions during meetings.

They volunteer for projects that stretch their abilities.

They learn new skills.

They introduce themselves to people they admire.

None of those moments seem significant on their own. Together, they create a foundation that makes bigger opportunities feel less intimidating.

Confidence isn't built in one defining moment.

It's built one decision at a time.

Stop Waiting to Feel Ready

One of the biggest mistakes I see is waiting until confidence arrives before taking action.

"I'll reach out when I'm more confident."

"I'll apply after I get more experience."

"I'll introduce myself once I know more people."

The problem is that confidence doesn't come before action.

It follows action.

Every successful athletic administrator, coach, communicator, and leader has experienced self-doubt. The difference is they chose to act anyway.

Action builds confidence.

Waiting rarely does.

My Perspective

When I started my career in athletic communications, I didn't walk into my first media interview believing I had everything figured out.

I learned by preparing.

By making mistakes.

By asking questions.

By showing up again the next day.

Over more than 25 years, I've learned that confidence isn't the absence of uncertainty. It's trusting that you've prepared yourself to handle whatever comes next.

Even today, I'm still building that confidence.

Put It Into Practice

This week, identify one small action you've been avoiding because you're waiting to feel more confident.

Maybe it's introducing yourself to someone in your profession.

Scheduling an informational interview.

Asking your supervisor for more responsibility.

Attending a networking event.

Publishing something you've been hesitant to share.

Or volunteering for a project that's outside your comfort zone.

Don't choose the biggest challenge.

Choose the next challenge.

Then do it again.

Small wins create lasting confidence.

Reflection

What's one action you've been putting off because you've been waiting to feel confident enough to take it?

I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

Stay Connected

Confidence isn't something someone else can give you.

It grows every time you choose preparation over excuses.

Every time you take action instead of waiting.

Every time you prove to yourself that you're capable of more than you believed yesterday.

Keep showing up.

One small win at a time.

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.

---

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

---

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.

Mastering the Art of Self-Marketing (November 19, 2025)

You are the CEO of your career — and marketing yourself is part of that role. Self-marketing doesn’t mean boasting; it means communicating your value clearly and consistently.

Start by identifying your Unique Value Proposition (UVP) — what you offer that few others can. This might be a blend of expertise, perspective, and results. For example, here is mine:

“I help collegiate athletic departments amplify their brand and drive audience engagement through strategic storytelling, inclusive communications, and data-driven campaigns — combining my experience in athletics with a passion for DEI to elevate visibility, build authentic fan and stakeholder relationships, and support growth at every level.”

Then, make sure this message appears everywhere — résumé summary, cover letters, LinkedIn headline, and introductions. Consistency builds recognition.

Also, collect social proof. Recommendations, testimonials, and metrics validate your message far better than self-claims.

Action Steps:

• Ask three colleagues or clients for written testimonials highlighting your strengths.

• Refresh your LinkedIn “About” section with your UVP and a clear tone of voice. Feel free to connect with me on LinkedIn.

• Share professional wins (projects, lessons, milestones) online once a week.

Visibility is opportunity. You can’t be chosen for what people don’t know you can do.

Thriving in Uncertain Job Markets (November 18, 2025)

Economic changes, layoffs, and industry disruptions can trigger fear — but uncertainty is also fertile ground for innovation and reinvention.

To thrive amid unpredictability, shift your mindset from security to resilience. Instead of asking, “How do I make sure this never happens to me?” ask, “How can I stay adaptable no matter what happens?”

Start by building your Career Safety Net:

• A diverse skill set that translates across industries.

• A professional network that spans roles and sectors.

• A financial cushion or side project that gives you flexibility.

Uncertainty becomes less frightening when you have options.

Action Steps:

• Identify 3 “future-proof” skills in your industry (e.g., digital literacy, communication, data interpretation).

• Create a side income or portfolio project that could evolve into new opportunities.

• Follow industry trend reports quarterly to stay proactive, not reactive.

Your stability doesn’t come from your employer — it comes from your adaptability.

Pitfalls of Mentorship (September 19, 2025)

 mentorship can be transformative, but it’s not always smooth. Here are some common pitfalls of mentorship to be aware of:

1. Mismatch in Expectations

• The mentee may expect career advancement or networking opportunities the mentor isn’t able to provide.

• The mentor might expect more deference, commitment, or gratitude than the mentee is ready to give.
  ➡️ Clear communication upfront helps prevent disappointment.

2. Overdependence

• A mentee may rely too heavily on the mentor for decisions instead of developing independence.

• This can stall growth and create burnout for the mentor.

3. Lack of Boundaries

• Mentorship can blur into friendship, which isn’t always bad, but can cause awkwardness if criticism or accountability is needed.

• Time boundaries matter too—mentorship shouldn’t feel like an endless drain.

4. Stagnation

• If the mentor’s advice is outdated or the mentee outgrows the relationship, sticking with it too long can limit growth.

• Sometimes mentors unintentionally project their own career path instead of helping the mentee shape their unique trajectory.

5. Conflicting Agendas

• A mentor might steer advice toward what worked for them, not what’s best for the mentee.

• Or they might see the mentee as a way to boost their own reputation rather than genuinely supporting them.

6. Poor Communication

• Infrequent check-ins, vague advice, or a lack of honest feedback can weaken the relationship.

• Sometimes mentors avoid tough truths to “be nice,” which actually holds mentees back.

7. Power Imbalances

• If a mentor is also a boss or gatekeeper, the mentee may feel pressured to agree rather than challenge ideas.

• This can silence authentic growth and reflection.

8. Lack of Commitment

• Mentorship takes effort on both sides. If one party isn’t invested—whether it’s showing up, following through, or preparing—it quickly loses value.

---

✅ The takeaway: Mentorship works best when both mentor and mentee establish clear expectations, open communication, and mutual respect—and accept that it’s okay for the relationship to evolve or even end when it has run its course.

Here are some best practices to avoid these pitfalls so you have a kind of "mentor/mentee checklist"?

Being a Mentee as a Job Seeker (September 18, 2025)

I have the privilege of serving as both a mentor and a mentee, experiences that have shaped how I approach supporting others in their career journeys. Much of my time is dedicated to working with job seekers, and this blog reflects my ongoing commitment to helping individuals navigate the challenges of employment and career growth.

Today, I want to focus on a topic that is especially meaningful to me: being a mentee as a job seeker. During seasons of unemployment in my own career, I relied heavily on the guidance and encouragement of mentors. Their support was instrumental in my success. Just as I emphasized yesterday the importance of the mentor’s role, it is equally essential to recognize the mentee’s responsibility in the success equation. 

Being a Mentee as a Job Seeker

Searching for a job can feel like standing at the edge of a forest with no clear path forward. The process is filled with resumes, applications, interviews, and—more often than not—silence from potential employers. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to walk through that forest alone.

As a job seeker, one of the most powerful tools you can use is mentorship. Being a mentee isn’t just about asking questions or getting advice—it’s about intentionally learning, growing, and leaning on someone who has already walked the path you’re stepping into.

---

Why Mentorship Matters During the Job Hunt

A mentor provides more than just career tips; they bring clarity, perspective, and encouragement at moments when you need them most.

Take Jordan, a recent college graduate who was struggling to land interviews. His resume was solid, but he wasn’t getting noticed. After connecting with a mentor in his field, Jordan learned that his application materials were too generic. With his mentor’s help, he rewrote his resume to highlight specific skills that matched job descriptions. Within a month, Jordan had three interviews lined up.

Jordan’s story shows how a mentor can help you see what you’re missing. Where you may feel stuck, a mentor often sees opportunity.

---

How to Be an Effective Mentee as a Job Seeker

Being a mentee isn’t passive—it’s active. Here’s how you can make the most of mentorship while searching for a job:

1. Be Proactive
   Don’t wait for your mentor to chase you down. Show initiative by coming prepared with questions: “Can you review my LinkedIn profile?” or “How can I improve my interview answers?”

2. Listen and Apply Advice
   A mentee who listens but doesn’t act quickly loses trust. Sophia, for example, used her mentor’s networking advice to reach out to three professionals on LinkedIn. One of those connections turned into a referral that eventually landed her an interview.

3. Respect Their Time
   Mentors are busy. Schedule meetings thoughtfully, be punctual, and keep your updates focused. Respect builds trust, and trust builds opportunity.

4. Show Gratitude
   Mentorship thrives on appreciation. A simple “thank you” email after each meeting—or sharing how their advice helped—reinforces the relationship.

5. Set Clear Goals
   A mentor can’t help you if you don’t know what you want. Be specific: “I want to break into sports communication” or “I need help preparing for behavioral interviews.” Clear goals give mentors direction.

---

Turning Mentorship Into Opportunity

Mentorship works best when it’s a two-way street. While you’re learning, your growth also energizes your mentor. Many mentors take pride in seeing their mentees succeed.

One job seeker I worked with, Marcus, regularly updated his mentor on progress—whether it was a rejection email, a networking call, or a final-round interview. That consistency built such a strong bond that when his mentor heard about an unposted job opening, Marcus was the first name recommended. He got the job.

That’s the power of being a great mentee: not just receiving advice, but cultivating trust and partnership.

---

Final Thought

Being a job seeker is tough, but being a mentee gives you an advantage. With the right mentor, you’ll gain clarity, expand your network, and build the confidence to pursue opportunities you might not have imagined on your own.

Remember: mentorship isn’t about shortcuts—it’s about shared wisdom. As a mentee, your role is to listen, act, and grow. If you do that, you’ll not only find a job—you’ll build relationships that can last throughout your career.

Using Mentorship as a Job Seeker (September 17, 2025)

In addition to serving on the College Sports Communicators Advocacy Committee, I have served since 2000 on the Job Seeker Committee (now known as the Career Services Committee). I thought as part of my month-long series on mentorship that I would talk on how to use mentorship as a job seeker.

Searching for a job can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. A mentor can be an invaluable resource, offering guidance, encouragement, and connections as you navigate the job market. Here are a few ways to leverage mentorship as a job seeker:

1. Gain Clarity on Career Goals

A mentor can help you sort through your interests, strengths, and experiences to identify what kind of role or industry fits best. Their outside perspective may uncover opportunities you hadn’t considered.

2. Strengthen Your Application Materials

Mentors often have hiring or leadership experience. They can review your résumé, cover letter, or portfolio and offer honest feedback to make your application stand out.

3. Practice Interviewing

Mock interviews with a mentor give you a safe space to practice answering tough questions and receive constructive feedback. This builds confidence before the real thing.

4. Expand Your Network

Mentors can connect you with people in their professional circles. A warm introduction often opens doors that cold applications cannot.

5. Learn the Unwritten Rules

Beyond skills and qualifications, every field has unwritten expectations—professional etiquette, workplace culture, and growth pathways. A mentor can provide insights you won’t find in job postings.

6. Stay Accountable and Encouraged

The job search can be discouraging. A mentor helps you stay on track with applications, celebrates progress, and provides motivation when the process feels slow.

Final Thought

As a job seeker, mentorship is more than just advice—it’s a partnership that equips you with tools, confidence, and connections to reach your next opportunity. By being proactive, open, and committed, you can turn mentorship into a powerful asset in your career journey.

---

Building Mutual Respect and Trust in Mentorship (September 12, 2025)

Building Mutual Respect and Trust in Mentorship

Mentorship thrives when it’s built on a strong foundation of mutual respect and trust. These qualities don’t just happen—they are intentionally cultivated through consistent actions, open communication, and a shared commitment to growth.

1. Set Clear Expectations
From the very beginning, mentors and mentees should take time to define goals, outline boundaries, and agree on communication preferences. This clarity helps avoid misunderstandings and sets the tone for a relationship rooted in respect.

2. Be Consistent and Reliable
Trust grows when both sides can count on one another. Showing up on time, following through on commitments, and being fully present during conversations signals reliability and care. Consistency builds confidence in the relationship.

3. Practice Active Listening
Respect is shown by truly listening. Instead of rushing to provide solutions or advice, both mentor and mentee should give their full attention, ask thoughtful questions, and validate each other’s perspectives. Active listening creates an environment where both feel valued.

4. Foster Openness and Honesty
Authenticity builds trust. By sharing both successes and struggles, mentors model vulnerability, and mentees learn that growth comes from honesty. Constructive feedback, delivered with care, strengthens trust rather than weakening it.

5. Value Each Other’s Perspectives
A mentorship isn’t one-sided. Mentors bring experience and guidance, but mentees contribute curiosity, creativity, and fresh insights. Recognizing the unique value each person brings creates balance and mutual respect.

6. Maintain Confidentiality
Trust requires safety. When personal challenges or professional goals are shared, keeping those conversations private reassures both parties that they are in a protected space.

7. Celebrate Progress Together
Acknowledging milestones, whether small or large, reinforces appreciation and respect. Celebrations remind both mentor and mentee that growth is happening and that the journey is worth it.

At its core, mentorship is not just about advice—it’s about connection. When respect and trust are intentionally nurtured, mentorship becomes more than a partnership; it becomes a transformative relationship that empowers both mentor and mentee to grow.

✨ Call to Action: Think about your own mentorship experiences—whether as a mentor or mentee. How did respect and trust shape the relationship? Share your story, or take the first step today to build these qualities in your current mentorship journey.

Getting Involved in Your Campus Community as an Employee (August 15, 2025)

Later today, I am going to be speaking to the students in a sports communication class at Spartanburg Methodist College. This past weekend, I was a part of the campus community that helped incoming freshman move in. Being part of a college or university isn’t just about the job description—it’s about contributing to the life and spirit of the campus. Getting involved can enrich your work experience, strengthen relationships, and create a sense of belonging.

Ways to get involved:

• Join campus committees or task forces — Share your expertise in shaping policies, programs, and campus culture.

• Support campus events — Attend athletic games, theatre productions, lectures, and student showcases to show school spirit.

• Volunteer with student organizations — Serve as an advisor, mentor, or resource for clubs and student initiatives.

• Participate in professional development — Take advantage of workshops, trainings, and conferences offered through the institution.

• Engage in community service — Join campus-led outreach projects that connect the institution with the local community.

• Be visible and approachable — Take time to connect with students and colleagues outside of your immediate role.

When employees engage in the campus community, they help create a more vibrant, supportive, and connected environment—making the institution a better place for everyone.

Getting Involved in a CSC Committee (August 14, 2025)

One of the most rewarding ways to get involved in College Sports Communicators is by serving on a committee. Committees are the heartbeat of CSC, driving many of the organization’s initiatives and providing members with a direct role in shaping the future of our profession.

When you join a committee, you’re not just signing up for meetings—you’re joining a small team of professionals who share your passion for sports communications. It’s a chance to:

• Work alongside industry leaders and peers from all levels of college athletics.

• Gain hands-on experience in areas like awards selection, professional development programming, advocacy, membership engagement, and diversity and inclusion.

• Develop leadership skills that translate back to your campus or organization.

• Expand your network far beyond your immediate circle, often forming lasting professional and personal relationships.

• Have a voice in decisions that impact the profession and the resources CSC offers.

Committees typically meet virtually throughout the year, making participation possible regardless of location or schedule. And you don’t need decades of experience to contribute—fresh perspectives are welcomed and valued.

By joining a committee, you’re not just helping CSC thrive—you’re helping to ensure that sports communicators everywhere have the support, recognition, and tools they need to succeed.

Getting Involved in Your Professional Organization (August 13, 2025)

I recently renewed my membership in College Sports Communicators (CSC). This membership has afforded me an abundance of opportunities—both personally and professionally. It was through CSC that I learned about my first opportunity beyond my campus: a volunteer position at the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta, Georgia.

On a personal note, CSC has introduced me to many of my closest friends—some of whom were there on one of the biggest days of my life: my wedding. Long-time College Sports Communicators member Roy Pickerill refers to those in the CSC organization as a family. I agree wholeheartedly.

If you’ve come across my blog and are wondering what getting involved means, I thought I would share some of my thoughts with you.

If you want to grow your career in sports communications, few investments pay off like active involvement in College Sports Communicators. CSC isn’t just a membership—it’s a network of peers who understand the unique challenges of our profession and are eager to share solutions, ideas, and opportunities.

Ways to get involved:

• Join a committee — From awards to education to advocacy, there’s a place to share your skills and learn new ones. More on this to come in my next blog.

• Attend conferences and webinars — Stay ahead of trends while making face-to-face connections that can last a lifetime.

• Volunteer for projects — Small contributions can have big impacts on the profession while raising your visibility.

• Share your expertise — Whether presenting at a session or writing an article, your experience can help others grow.

When you’re active in CSC, you’re not just improving your own career—you’re strengthening the profession for everyone.

Because in college sports communications, the best work happens when we connect, collaborate, and elevate each other.