The growth of the sports industry has created a demand for qualified sport industry professionals (Howard & Mahony, 2001). In order for students/inexperienced practitioners to more completely understand employer expectations for employment, guidance and direction is highly beneficial (Grupe, 2002). The purpose of this study is to identify the processes and factors contributing to employment in the sport industry. Based upon a review of existing literature involving career development, educational and vocation preparation for employment, and social capital/networks, four research questions were posed: 1) How important is a students major in determining his/her future in the sport industry, 2) What courses are necessary for individuals seeking employment in the sport industry, 3) How important is the internship in preparing students to become future sport practitioners, and 4) How beneficial are social ties in employment and career development in the sport industry?
Method
Recognized industry professionals (N=8) with varying sport experience were interviewed to establish their individual views and perceptions on the posed research questions. The data were analyzed by audio-recording and transcribing each phone interview, while also evaluating and coding similar responses on a thematic basis.
Analysis/Results
Results indicate that academic degree does not serve as a discriminator for employment. Each participant identified and discussed either particular classes or disciplines which they viewed as contributing to employability. Interestingly, these results also tend to provide an explanation for the lack of importance on a specific major. Both business and communication classes were amongst those more highly recommended by participants. Internships and practical experience were identified as the single most important factor contributing to employment in the sports industry. The specific nature of the internship experience did not seem to be viewed as important as the benefits from simple industry interaction. Finally, this study identified numerous situations where contacts identified through networking were instrumental in helping participants obtain employment. While networks serve as a significant contributor towards obtaining employment in the industry, participants indicate that performance serves as the basis for continued employment. Mentors and role models also appeared to play an important role in the career development of several participants, providing direction relating to internships, career choice, and organizational exposure.
Conclusions
Rather than the focused perspectives available through the literature on individual positions, the results acquired from this broad cross-section support overarching employment-related factors which are broader than an individual's specific discipline focus. Implications of the given results will be discussed in further detail.