How did you hear about the Athletes Network?
My brother came across the Athletes Network online and sent me the link. I took a look and was so excited by the concept that I signed up to become a member there and then.
You found your job through the Athletes Network. How were you guided through that process? Were you able to ask someone for help if you came across anything you weren’t sure about while you were preparing?
I spotted an interesting position at Sunrise UPC on the Athletes Network website. That prompted me to send my application documents over to Dave. From that point until I signed my contract of employment, Dave was by my side every step of the way.
Dave offered to coach me before my first interview, which was extremely helpful. I picked up some fantastic tips from him! For example, Dave showed me the athlete’s mindset diagram and asked me to think about which aspects of it applied to me. When I was preparing for my interview, I noticed that the strengths I had developed during my sporting career matched the requirements of the job perfectly, and I managed to highlight that in the interview.
How did you tackle the challenge? How much did the athlete’s mindset help you?
We were in touch throughout the rest of the process, and just knowing that I could ask for help whenever I needed it really boosted my confidence. Dave really knows his stuff and he’s as positive and motivating as you would expect an athlete to be. He was also genuinely happy when I got the job, and I’m super grateful for all his help.
During the application process, I found out everything I could about the position and the company. By speaking to the relevant people, I came to realise that I really did want the job. I was given a case study to prepare and present. While I was preparing, I realised just how far I’d come thanks to the Athletes Network. It dawned on me at that point that it was up to me to show just what I could do, and seize the opportunity with both hands. The athlete’s mindset helped me there, because I’m familiar with that kind of situation from the sporting world. During big games, there would be moments when I’d have to take responsibility, knowing that the final result was down to me and how I performed. In those situations, all that mattered was what I did in that moment. At that moment in time, the past and the future meant nothing. The fact that I’d experienced that in sport helped me deliver my presentation.
You’re familiar with many of the Athletes Network’s touchpoints now. Why would you recommend the Athletes Network to other athletes?
I would recommend the Athletes Network to athletes looking for support as they take the next professional step after a career in sport. That support could come in the form of advice sessions, during the Athletes Day, or in conversations with other athletes who have already made the move. I would also recommend it to former athletes who might be able to share their own experiences to help others. After all, we are always stronger together. As more athletes get involved, the Athletes Network will be able to have an even greater impact going forward.
