Look the Part - “Pearls of Wisdom” for the post-COVID Tennis Professional
The tennis and racquet sports industry has changed rapidly as a result of COVID Professionals, and particularly directors who have remained successful over the past year have had to stay ahead of these changes by being more engaged in their business, and practicing some 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 hobby or a passion for you, but it’s a business for your General Manager. 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, which in turn will earn you great respect and stature. 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 new items, that you and your staff wear these 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 interviews, it’s best to wear a collared shirt, with a jacket. Remember, you are a business-person first and a racquets-professional second. Your image is top priority so play 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 (readily available at Amazon and other retailers.) 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 on Zoom.” Try not to use a phone for Zoom unless absolutely necessary and if you do use a phone, make sure it's secured - no one wants to follow you on a hand held phone. If your preparations are poor, your presentation on Zoom will show your flaws. **For additional tips interviewing on Zoom, click here.
Don’t forget sunscreen: For those working in outdoor climates this winter, you are likely spending more hours on the court than ever before. :. The quality of sunscreen matters, so invest a little more in a mineral-based sunscreen that matches your skin tone and blends well with your skin. I personally recommend Tizo3, and our friends at USPTA endorse Caribbean Sol
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, take your sunglasses off so they can really see you. If you feel self conscious about hair loss, consider a partial transplant and if your hair is greying, consider a professional rinse if this will help you feel more confident.
Be prepared to provide metrics to your GM or Tennis 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 because the business of a professional or Director today is not just about how to teach a lesson.
Take a 360-degree View: Look at yourself physically, socially and professionally, as you would be seen by those you work with, work for, as well as 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 big difference in your current role, and in your ability to secure a future opportunity. .
Apply for the 2022 Certified Racquet Sports Executive Program (CRSE). Started in 2020, the CRE program was sold-out last year, and is again fully subscribed for 2021. The CRSE program is the quintessential self-improvement program for racquet sports professionals and is designed for certified tennis and racquet sports professionals who aspire to manage, administer and direct a private club program more effectively, more professionally, and more confidently.
Whatever your current role in the industry, it has a critical impact on your employer, as well as your future 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,o requiring that we “hit 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”.