Behind the Article - Networking for the Non-Networker
Working in the NBA
I say that I don’t like networking and it’s true, I don’t. But a few years ago, I was pulling out an old folder with contacts I had called while trying to get my foot in the door for an NBA job and the list included… Pat Williams (former VP of the Magic) and Neil Olshey (LAC Player Development) who went on to be by boss as the General Manager of the Trail Blazers. I also had talked to a GM of a G-League team and on and on.
All contacts from networking, the thing I dread. And yet, the thing that can bring true connections.
But as I said previously, I never asked any of them for anything. I simply wanted to learn and gather information.
And now that I’ve been in a position where I take those same calls and e-mails, I am much more apt to respond to those simply looking for more information. That tells me that they want to put the work in, they just need a little more direction.
For those of you who subscribe here, that tells me, you’re willing to put a little more of your time and resources into it. You’re not asking me to do anything for you, you’re taking the initiative to learn. (and as always… I’m happy to answer any questions I haven’t directly answered on here!)
Expectations are often what kill your chances and energy. Go into ‘networking’ simply to learn and meet people. Don’t get upset if they don’t give you what you want or even if they don’t respond. In a way, it’s a numbers game. So keep building relationships, keep getting interviews. If you’re doing both of those things, it is highly likely you will find your breakthrough.
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One way to easily network and build relationships is by joining one of our courses. Just like I don’t like networking, I don’t like marketing either. But here we are! I do believe in these courses and I can guarantee that you will build your NBA network. You’ll meet others who have worked in the NBA and others like yourself, aspiring to one day. You’ll build real relationship and gain incredible insights. You can find the class here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/get-in-the-game-101-nba-training-camp-2022-2023-w-full-season-option-tickets-415673359207