Tips on How to Secure a Sports Management Internship

Landing a sports management internship can be a game-changer for your career, providing you with invaluable experience and networking opportunities. However, securing an internship in this competitive field requires a strategic approach. This article will provide practical tips and step-by-step checklists on best practices to increase your chances of securing a sports management internship across various organizations.

How to Land a Sports Management Internship

Understand the Industry

Before you start applying for internships, it’s crucial to have a solid understanding of the sports management industry. Research different sectors within the industry, such as professional sports teams, collegiate athletics, sports marketing agencies, sports entrepreneurship and event management companies. Understand the roles and responsibilities typical to these areas, and identify which ones align with your sports management career goals.

Self-Assessment: Know Your Strengths and Interests

Take time to assess your skills, interests and career aspirations. Consider the following questions:

• What areas do I need to improve to be a competitive candidate?
• What aspects of sports management am I most passionate about?
• What skills do I currently possess that are relevant to this field?

This self-assessment will help you tailor your search and applications to positions that are a good fit for you.

Build a Strong Foundation: Education and Experience

Pursue Relevant Education

Most sports management internships require or prefer candidates with a relevant educational background. Consider enrolling in a sports management program or taking related courses in marketing, business administration or communications.

Gain Practical Experience

Experience in sports management or related fields can significantly boost your application. Look for opportunities such as:

• Participating in student organizations related to sports or event management.
• Securing part-time jobs or internships in marketing, sales or customer service.
• Volunteering at local sports events or for school athletic programs.

Develop Your Network

Networking is critical in the sports management industry. Building connections can open doors to opportunities that may not be advertised. Here are some networking tips:

• Attend Industry Events: Conferences, seminars and sports events are great places to meet professionals in the field.
• Join Professional Organizations: Organizations such as the North American Society for Sport Management (NASSM) or the Sports Marketing Association (SMA) offer networking opportunities and resources.
• Leverage Social Media: Use LinkedIn to connect with industry professionals and join relevant groups.

Create a Winning Application Package

Tailor Your Resume and Cover Letter

Your resume and cover letter are your first chance to make a strong impression. Customize them for each application to highlight relevant experience and skills. Here are some tips:

• Cover Letter: Address it to the specific person responsible for hiring if possible. Highlight why you’re interested in the internship and how your skills and experiences make you a strong candidate.
• Resume: Include relevant coursework, experience and skills. Use action verbs and quantify achievements when possible.

Prepare a Portfolio

Having a portfolio that showcases your work can set you apart from other candidates. Include examples of projects, presentations or reports you have completed, especially those related to sports management.

Apply Strategically

Research Potential Employers

Identify organizations where you’d like to intern and research their internship programs. Look for opportunities at:

• Collegiate Athletics: Many universities offer internships in their athletic departments.
• Event Management Companies: Organizations that plan and execute sports events.
• Professional Sports Teams: NBA, NFL, MLB, and other leagues often have internship programs.
• Sports Marketing Agencies: Companies that specialize in sports marketing and management.

Use Multiple Resources

Don’t rely on just one source to find internships. Use a variety of resources such as:

• Company Websites: Check the careers section of organizations you’re interested in.
• Job Boards: Websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, and TeamWork Online often list sports management internships.
• University Career Centers: Many schools have partnerships with organizations offering internships.

Prepare for Interviews

Practice Common Questions

Prepare for interviews by practicing answers to common questions such as:

• What relevant skills and experiences do you bring to this internship?
• How do you handle pressure and tight deadlines?
• Why do you want to work in sports management?

Prepare Your Own Questions

Having thoughtful questions prepared shows your interest in the role and organization. Consider asking about:

• Opportunities for learning and professional development.
• The company culture and team dynamics.
• The daily responsibilities of the internship.

Follow Up

After applying or interviewing, it’s important to follow up. Send a thank-you email within 24 hours of your interview, expressing your gratitude for the opportunity and reiterating your interest in the position.

Checklist for Securing a Sports Management Internship

Understand the Industry

• Research different sectors and roles within sports management.
• Identify your areas of interest and relevant skills.

Build a Strong Foundation

• Pursue relevant education.
• Gain practical experience through volunteering, part-time jobs or internships.

Develop Your Network

• Attend industry events and join professional organizations.
• Leverage social media to connect with professionals.

Create a Winning Application Package

• Tailor your resume and cover letter for each application.
• Prepare a portfolio showcasing relevant work.

Apply Strategically

• Research potential employers and internship programs.
• Use multiple resources to find opportunities.

Prepare for Interviews

• Practice common interview questions.
• Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer.

Follow Up

• Send a thank-you email after interviews.

Securing a sports management internship requires a combination of education, experience, networking, and strategic application. By following the tips and steps outlined in this article, you can increase your chances of landing an internship that will provide valuable experience and help you build a successful career in sports management. Remember, persistence and a proactive approach are key to standing out in this competitive field.

Earn a Bachelor’s in Sports Management with CUC

If you are interested in the field of sports management and want to secure internships, consider enrolling in Concordia University Chicago’s (CUC) online Bachelor of Arts in Sports Management. Students in CUC’s program are prepared to pursue high-level internships that set them up for successful careers in coaching, marketing and other areas of sports management. Apply online today or book a call with an admission specialist to learn more about our programs.