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OUTSIDE the LINES
Volume 23 Issue 1
Look the Part - “Pearls of Wisdom” for the post-COVID Tennis Professional
Presented by McMahon Careers
By Stefan Laporte, USPTA Elite Professional & McMahon Careers Executive Search Consultant
T
he tennis and racquet sports industry has changed rapidly as a result of COVID. Professionals who have remained successful over the past two years have had to stay ahead of these changes by being more engaged in their business and practicing many of the basic concepts that are relevant to any industry. No longer should you assume that you are settled into your job for years to come and that you are entitled to your position. The philosophy “there is work to be done and always room for improvement”, has never been more accurate. Here are some tips that I hope resonate and maybe even change the way you approach some aspects of your business: Tennis is a Business: Tennis might be a job or a passion for you, but it’s a business for your General Manager or Owner. Be passionate and have FUN with tennis, but in your professional role you must treat it as a business designed to meet the needs of your members. In turn will garner great respect and stature, but this must be earned. Don’t take it lightly. Show your pride and passion by constantly educating yourself on both racquets-sports trends and club industry trends “Dress for Success’’: This old motto is still relevant and should always be remembered. We have the power to influence what our members buy in the pro shop. Make sure as your pro shop stocks the latest items, that you and your staff wear these same items. Members like to see apparel “live and in living color”. Never wear a logo from another club or a brand that your shop doesn’t carry. Ask your GM for a staff uniform budget and note that most vendors will give you a 10-15% discount off the cost price for purchases you make for yourself or your staff. Zoom meetings are here to stay: Zoom isn’t going anywhere so-make sure you are dressed for success whenever using the platform. For staff or club meetings make sure to look professional and take off your cap so your face can be seen. For an interview, it’s best to wear a collared shirt, with a jacket. Remember, you are a businessperson first,
and a racquets-professional second. Your image is top priority so play, and look, the part. Prepare - Preparation is the pathway to confidence: An example can be found again in those Zoom meetings. Take 10-15 minutes of time to prepare, at minimum to make sure the background is professional, and the lighting highlights your face. Consider investing in a Ring Light that diffuses the light all around your face and makes you stand out. Set the stage and pay attention to details that will make the participants think - “Wow, he/she looked great.” Try not to use a phone for Zoom unless necessary and if you do use a phone, make sure it’s secured - no one wants to follow you on a handheld phone that is constantly moving. If your preparation is poor, your presentation on Zoom will show your flaws. Take off your hat and sunglasses: It’s good practice to occasionally remove your hat when not teaching, so members can see your face. When talking to members close up on the court, or in the pro shop, take your sunglasses off so they can see your face, and your eyes. While on the subject of hats and sunglasses, remember too - Don’t forget sunscreen. Protecting your skin, and your life is more important than anything else. Take care of yourself first, so you can then take care of others. Be prepared to provide metrics to your GM or Committee Chair: Avoid general statements such as “we are really busy”- instead, provide measurable insights such as “lessons are up 20% from the same week last year” or “Weekend cardio clinics are up 30% this season from last season.” Know your numbers and provide facts. When necessary, be prepared to provide rationale or reasoning for changes while being careful to define what you know, from what you believe or think. If you have not worked on your financials, get started now. The business of a professional or Director today is not just about how to teach a lesson - it’s about how to manage the business. Take a 360-degree View: Look at yourself
McMahon Careers offers career coaching and excutive education programs for racquet sports professionals and executive search services for employers. The firm also manages and delivers all services offered through USPTA DirectorSearch. For information visit: mcmahoncareers.com or USPTADirectorSearch.com
physically, socially, and professionally, in the same way you would be seen by those you work with, work for, and by those who work for you. Make a strategic plan for self- improvement, even if it is just one little thing such as “actively engaging in continuing education opportunities rather than passively attending” or “improving my posture so my members and staff see a strong, confident professional.” The smallest improvements can make a significant difference in your current role, and in your ability to secure a future opportunity. Apply to participate in business-focused education programs such as the USPTA Director of Racquet Sports program, or the Certified Racquet Sports Executive Program (CRSE) program offered by McMahon Careers. If your career goal is ultimately to be a Director - or a more confident and competent Director, or if just want to become more involved in the operations of your facility, you should commit to learning as much as possible about the off-court responsibilities that are expected of today’s professional by General Managers and Owners. Whatever your current role in the industry, it has a critical impact on your employer, as well as your own career-path. Don’t underestimate the impact that you have on those around you, or how the work you do today, can impact your future. Dressing and making yourself look successful is the first step to being successful. As professionals, we are in positions that are typically multifaceted requiring that we “run on all cylinders”, at all times. We are in the spotlight constantly; in fact, many people equate our roles as being similar to being in the entertainment field. Like Entertainers - we must always “look the part” and come prepared to “play the role”. McMahon Careers offers career coaching and executive education programs for racquet sports professionals and executive search services for employers. The firm also manages and delivers all services offered through USPTA DirectorSearch. For information visit: mcmahon careers.com or USPTADirectorSearch.com
