Podcast Summary
Career Transition: Teresa Bradford turned her customer service role into a dream job in sports marketing at Hoka One One by proactively seeking new opportunities aligned with her passion for running.
Teresa Bradford's journey to becoming a sports marketing associate manager at Hoka One One is an inspiring story of taking chances and following one's passions. Initially starting in customer service, she utilized her experience as a runner and her knowledge about the brand to transition into a role that truly excites her. By reaching out to the marketing department before a major relocation, she showcased her willingness to grow within the company and ultimately landed a position that is both fulfilling and aligned with her interests. This highlights the importance of being proactive and open to new opportunities in one's career, especially in industries one is passionate about. It emphasizes that taking the initiative can lead to dream jobs, as long as you're willing to put yourself out there and explore various possibilities within a brand you love.
Growth Mindset: Embracing challenges and starting from the bottom can lead to career success. Hands-on experience is crucial for growth and adaptability in fast-paced environments.
Success often comes from embracing challenges and being willing to start at the bottom. The speaker, who started in customer service, highlights that education doesn't always dictate your career path and that hands-on experience can be invaluable. They emphasize finding growth in situations that push you outside your comfort zone and how knowledge of diverse roles leads to better performance in your job. This mindset has been key in adapting to a fast-growing company and navigating various responsibilities, like managing athletes and promoting the brand. Overall, being open to learning, taking chances, and not underestimating entry-level opportunities can lead to a fulfilling career journey.
Athlete Connections: Being part of the athletic industry blends excitement with challenges, creating deep bonds with athletes through shared experiences and support in their journeys.
Working in the athletic industry is a blend of excitement and challenges. From watching amazing races like the UTMB to managing stressful logistics around athlete events, it’s a rollercoaster ride. Building personal relationships with athletes, sharing their triumphs and struggles, makes the work fulfilling. Even during high-pressure moments, like helping an athlete during Olympic trials, the joy of their achievements makes it worthwhile. It’s more than just a job; it’s about being part of their journey, supporting them through wins and losses, and celebrating success together. These experiences create lasting memories and deepen connections, making every challenge a shared experience with the athletes.
Athlete Relationships: Building strong personal relationships with athletes involves understanding their needs and sharing experiences, which enhances support and community in running.
Supporting athletes on a personal level involves understanding their unique needs, especially during significant moments like wins, losses, pregnancies, or postpartum periods. Each relationship is different; some athletes prefer frequent check-ins, while others are more independent. Additionally, having a shared background in running can enhance these connections, as it creates common ground. This bond motivates both the support provider and the athletes, with the latter inspiring each other to explore new running experiences. For instance, winning a trail race can bring immense joy and pride, regardless of past accomplishments. It's a journey of growth, and relationships build through continued interaction reveal a deeper mutual respect and understanding within the athletic community, making the support more meaningful. The dialogue underscores the importance of strong relationships and shared experiences in both personal and professional realms.
Courageous Advocacy: Speaking up for diversity and inclusion can be uncomfortable but is vital for change. Set small goals, do it scared, and build support around you to inspire others.
Embracing diversity, equity, and inclusion in any workplace is not easy, but it’s essential for progress. Speaking up, even when it feels uncomfortable or scary, can lead to positive change. Setting small personal goals can help motivate you to voice your concerns. By doing so, you not only advocate for yourself but also inspire others who may share your views. Remember, it's acceptable to act despite feeling afraid. Just like professional athletes tackle their fears before a race, anyone can find the courage to speak out. Building a supportive network of colleagues can also provide strength in those moments. Ultimately, creating a more inclusive environment requires continuous effort and collaboration, but the changes it brings benefit everyone involved.
Career Insights: Sports marketing can be rewarding despite lower salaries than major leagues. Professionals find fulfillment in supporting important causes while managing challenging schedules and enjoying perks like access to shoes.
Navigating a career in sports marketing, particularly in running, offers its challenges and rewards. While the industry may not pay as well as major sports like basketball or football, there is still an opportunity to earn a comfortable salary. Many professionals in this field strive to create positive impacts by supporting causes outside of sports, breaking the traditional view of athletes and marketers. Time management is crucial due to the demanding hours often involved in events, but the satisfaction of making a difference keeps them motivated. Additionally, having access to products such as shoes often brings both joy and envy among peers. Ultimately, standing up for important issues in the community and representing diverse voices in sports marketing can be a fulfilling aspect of the job, motivating individuals to continue their important work despite the hardships they may face.
Pursuing Passion: Prioritize mental health and pursue passions without external pressures. In sports marketing, embrace opportunities without fear; every rejection brings you closer to success.
Balancing time for work, personal health, and hobbies is a challenge many face, especially when feeling overwhelmed by external uncertainties. It’s important to prioritize mental health and rediscover joys like running without pressure. Turning to passion projects can rejuvenate motivation. For those interested in sports marketing, pursuing your passion regardless of fears and rejections is vital. Don’t let doubts hold you back, and approach opportunities with courage, even in uncertainty. Remember that every "no" is simply a step towards a "yes." Build a supportive network, and stay focused on your goals, trusting that your passion and hard work will lead you to success. This journey is filled with ups and downs, but the pursuit and love for what you do can guide you through it all.