APPRENTICE star and West Ham United vice-chair Karren Brady answers your careers questions and meets an inspirational CEO.
Here she gives a reader advice on how she can become a football or sports agent.
Q) I’m a PE teacher, but I’m not as passionate about my job as I was.
I adore sport and I love managing people, but the teaching side has become very monotonous.
I’ve always liked the idea of being a football or sports agent, however, I’m put off by two things: that I am a woman looking to work in a male-dominated industry, and that I don’t have the qualifications or experience to even get a look-in at an agency.
I believe I have the work ethic, dedication and people skills to thrive once I’ve started, but I have no idea how to get my foot in the door. Do you have any advice?
READ MORE FROM KARREN BRADY
Karren Brady’s career advice on going back to college to become a teacher
Karren Brady’s career advice on going back to college to become a teacher
Danielle, via email
A) The two points you see as hurdles should not be stumbling blocks.
Firstly, being a woman in a male-dominated workplace is never easy – but it is doable.
Our reality is that we still face challenges that men don’t need to even think about.
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But times are changing, and more women are breaking into “traditional” male industries.
Secondly, you can do something about your lack of experience – we all have to start somewhere.
Research roles and agencies, follow companies and individuals on LinkedIn or other social channels, and learn more about what they offer, including what skills are involved.
Don’t be afraid to connect with people and ask to meet for a coffee to go through any questions about what they do and the advice they can give.
With limited experience, you will likely have to start in a junior role, which will mean a pay cut, so make sure you are in a financially secure position before taking the plunge.
But with your strong work ethic, dedication and people skills, you sound determined to succeed. Good luck.
- Got a careers question for Karren?Email [email protected]
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