Amidst discussions about the uncertain economic landscape, it’s evident that times may not seem favorable for job seekers, particularly aspiring football coaches. While this advice is primarily directed at young and aspiring coaches, its principles hold relevance for everyone. Although this post may initially come across as pessimistic, I urge you to stay engaged, as there’s a valuable lesson to be gleaned.
Coaching is an immensely competitive field, replete with its share of challenges, ranging from demanding schedules to pervasive nepotism. Moreover, the abundance of aspiring coaches vying for limited opportunities compounds the challenge. So, how does a young coach with scant experience or connections stand out and thrive in such a fiercely competitive environment?
What if I told you that just two words could propel you ahead of 95% of your competitors? Would you believe me?
Get ready, because these two words are about to revolutionize your approach:
Add. Value.
Did you jot that down? Take a moment to do so.
You might be skeptical, but hear me out…
At the core, most individuals are inherently self-centered—a fundamental aspect of human nature. Rather than bemoaning this reality, we can leverage it to our advantage.
Consider your aspiration to become a football coach. Admirable goal! However, there’s a catch…
While your playing experience, be it in high school or college, holds merit, coaching necessitates an entirely distinct skill set and set of responsibilities. Many coaches spend their careers without fully grasping this fundamental truth.
So, how does one learn to be a coach? Much like learning to play football: through practice. While you may have observed seasoned coaches during your playing days, passive observation pales in comparison to hands-on experience. You’re about to embark on one of the most rigorous on-the-job training programs imaginable.
Football coaches lead incredibly busy lives, and even the most affable among them lack the bandwidth to mentor a complete novice. So, what’s the solution? Add value.
Whether it’s assisting with drills, facilitating equipment fittings, or simply fetching coffee, your primary objective as a novice coach is to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of those around you. Initially, your expertise may not be the driving force behind your inclusion; rather, it’s your willingness to contribute meaningfully.
Coaches are consumed with the task of winning games, nurturing players, and imparting life lessons. During the season, they lack the luxury of conducting impromptu coaching clinics or soliciting opinions on play calls. Therefore, it’s imperative to hone skills such as film analysis, coverage recognition, and tactical comprehension until they become second nature.
As you expand your skill set, you simultaneously augment your value to the team. Increased value not only solidifies your standing within the organization but also enhances your marketability for future opportunities.
Notice how by prioritizing value addition for others, you inadvertently elevate your own worth. This isn’t a zero-sum game; everyone benefits when you dedicate yourself to becoming a better coach, especially you.
“But what about those of us who haven’t secured a job yet?” you may wonder. Attend the AFCA Convention, and you’ll witness firsthand the sea of faces clamoring for employment opportunities. How does one stand out amidst this throng?
Here’s the secret: Find a way to add value to a prospective employer.
Allow me to share a personal anecdote:
Several years ago, I found myself at the AFCA Convention, seated at the back of a crowded clinic talk. The speaker—a seasoned coach I greatly admired—captivated the audience with his insights. Amidst the post-talk frenzy, I seized a brief moment to commend him on his presentation and share a book recommendation that resonated with his philosophies.
His response was unexpectedly receptive. He encouraged me to send him an email with further details. Weeks later, after mailing him the recommended book along with a personalized note, he reached out to express his gratitude and engage in a meaningful conversation about football and career aspirations.
The moral of the story?
In a sea of demands, I found a way to enrich this coach’s life. It didn’t require a significant investment, just a thoughtful gesture. This simple act set me apart and forged a valuable relationship with a respected coach.
Feel free to adopt this approach or devise your own, but never lose sight of the principle: To navigate life’s challenges, focus on adding value to the lives of those around you. This mindset distinguishes you from the crowd.
Embrace these two words—Add. Value.—let them permeate your actions, and watch as they guide you toward success in football and beyond. When setbacks arise, or opportunities slip through your grasp, ask yourself if you’ve done everything possible to enrich the lives of others.
While it may seem simplistic to hold oneself accountable amidst adversity, there’s immense power in recognizing that you ultimately control your destiny, irrespective of transient setbacks. This mindset sets you apart from the majority and paves the path to success.
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