It is safe to say that at least half of our team (more if you focus on those in management positions) undertake sport of some kind. I do not think this is a coincidence, but rather, in our experience, we find those who undertake sport tend to be more driven, hardworking and determined to succeed. As a consequence, we find ourselves asking more, and more, in interviews questions concerning an individual’s outside interests, and whether they do play or have played sport of any kind. So, why do we ask this? Well we believe athletes bring the following core values to our business…
Hard Work Ethic
People who undertake sport tend to be more committed, they are able to set goals and work towards them, understanding that hard work and hours need to be put in, in order for goals to be achieved. Their hard work ethic also stems from their love of success. Take our two long distance runners; the thrill they get from completing a race in a time they have been training for is addictive. This is reflected in their work, neither ever gives up and both strive to exceed targets and complete tasks, no matter how difficult.
Goal-Orientated
All athletes set goals and targets for what they want to achieve in the next week, month or year. This transfers easily to the business environment. The majority of our employees that undertake sport are self-starters, always setting new goals for themselves and their team. They are also adept at prioritising and being able to re-prioritise quickly to focus on new objectives whenever they appear.
Team Players
Even in individual sports, athletes understand the importance of teamwork. Nothing can be achieved unless the whole team is focused and working collaboratively to achieve the same goal. Not only this, but athletes tend to read people better, knowing when to take charge, when to take a step back and when to encourage their colleagues, this leads to a great working environment where more can be achieved. From seeing the positive impact athletes have had on our firm, it is definitely a subject that needs to be considered when you are next interviewing, especially if you are a small or start-up company that needs self-starters who are as passionate about your business as you are.
Top Ten Reasons to Hire an Athlete
- Hard Working
- Dedicated
- Self-Starters
- Driven
- Team Players
- Goal-Orientated
- Resilient
- Great Communicators
- Manage Time Well
- Passionate