The First Hurdle

A guide to searching, applying and interviewing for jobs in sports performance

By: Steve Ingham

Narrated by: Virtual Voice

Whatever you go on to achieve during your career will stem from that pivotal day you were appointed to do the job. If you’re aiming for a successful innings in sports performance (one of thousands entering via sports science, sports therapy and medicine routes every year), you’ll know that it’s viciously competitive. You’ve invested a substantial amount of money and effort in your education and you’re probably confused about how to get ahead in the race. Most aspirants are completely unprepared for the job application and interviewing stages. They are either unskilled or don’t know how to show that they have what it takes. This book will help you find the right doors to push and show you how to avoid having them slammed in your face. It will support you in overcoming any hurdles on what could be the most important day in your career. Don’t buy this book if you’re expecting a speedy boarding pass to becoming Man United’s next big training ground guru. Do buy it if you’re prepared to put in the groundwork necessary to craft out a successful career in supporting the goals of others in the world of sport. Having interviewed, led and developed thousands of support staff and hopefuls, Dr Steve Ingham has seen it all. In this essential guide, he shares, in his usual candid and humorous style, the key areas to help you look for jobs and stand out as you apply. Steve gives insight into what interviewers are thinking and how to answer the array of interview questions you might face in the best possible way. With specialist sections on how to present yourself, virtual interviews, presentations, group interviews and applying for senior positions, this book will prepare you to take hold of the role you have always dreamed of. Runners and hurdlers: Introduction One principle: You can’t be anybody else Get out of your own head: What interviewers think about Target practice: Finding the right job Looking good on paper: CVs and cover letters The warm-up: Interview preparation First contact: The start of the interview Xs and Ys: The question that differentiates Clarity, clarity, clarity: Structuring your answers Team: Can you work with other people? Who are you?: The importance of self-awareness Sprint finish: How to finish an interview Eyeing the competition: Group interviews Show me: Practical tests Virtual reality: Video pitching and online interviews Climbing the ladder: Interviews for managers and leaders The feedback loop: Getting advice; win, lose or draw A final word for interviewers and interviewees Acknowledgements Appendix 1: Unpaid internships Appendix 2: An overview of career routes About the author More from Steve