IN THIS ISSUE

  • 👋 Introduction: Perseverance can’t be measured

  • ⚽️ Soccer Jobs: 15+ new jobs in soccer

  • ⏭️ Career Tips: Make a lasting pre-interview impression

  • 📰 Extra Extra: FIFA seeking private investment

INTRODUCTION

Hello, Pathwayers -

The topic of today’s newsletter is one that I think may be the most overlooked for job seekers - the actual first impression one makes way before an interview.

I’m convinced those who implement some (all?!) of the recommendations below will meaningfully boost their chances of securing interviews. Get these things right, and you’re on your way.

I’ve talked to a lot of folks recently who are struggling to find their spot in the sport - if that’s you, keep going. Perseverance is one of those qualities that can’t be measured but that I believe pays off in the long run.

-Kyle Sheldon, Co-Founder & CEO

PS: We’ve recently launched our newsletter storefront - you can now sponsor the newsletter, post a featured job, or ensure a job listing in our weekly rundown.

FEATURED JOB: RHODE ISLAND FC

Rhode Island FC is seeking an experienced leader to serve as Director of Team Operations. Reporting to the General Manager and Assistant General Manager, this role will oversee day-to-day team operations and ensures players and staff are fully supported across training, travel, matchday operations, player care, and equipment.

LEARN MORE + APPLY

Want to promote your open role? We’ve got options

NEW SOCCER JOBS

Check out this week’s list of new soccer jobs. If you decide to throw your hat in the ring, good luck.

⚽️ CAREER TIP: WHAT SOCCER HIRING MANAGERS NOTICE BEFORE THE INTERVIEW STARTS

Most people spend all their energy preparing for the interview itself.

What questions they'll ask, what answers they'll give, and the experiences they'll highlight.

That preparation matters.

But here's what most people don't realize:

The hiring manager has already formed an impression of you before you walk in the door.

Sometimes before they've even read your résumé.

HERE'S WHAT THEY'RE ACTUALLY LOOKING AT

1. Your LinkedIn Profile

In almost every case, this is the first place a hiring manager goes after they see your name.

It's your first impression before your first impression.

Ask yourself:

  • Is your headline specific? "Aspiring sports professional" tells someone nothing. "Sports marketing professional focused on soccer partnerships" tells them something.

  • Is your experience section written with accomplishments and impact, not just job descriptions?

  • Do you have a professional profile photo?

  • Are you posting content that signals you're engaged with the industry?

A strong LinkedIn profile doesn't get you the job.

A weak one can quietly take you out of the running.

2. Your Initial Email

The way you write your first email tells a hiring manager more than you think.

They're noticing:

  • Whether you personalized it or sent a copy-paste template

  • Whether your subject line was thoughtful or generic

  • Whether you got their name right

  • Whether your signature includes your full name, phone number, and LinkedIn profile (always, always include this info!)

Short, specific, and professional beats long, generic, and unfocused every time.

In a world where many are using AI to generate generic, lifeless emails letting your personality show through can immediately grab a hiring manager’s attention.

3. Your Response Time

When a hiring manager reaches out to schedule an interview, how quickly you respond sends a signal.

You don't need to reply within five minutes.

But waiting three days to confirm a time slot communicates something about how you'll show up on the job.

Respond promptly.

It should always be within the same day.

Make it easy on them and show them you’re engaged.

4. Your Calendar Etiquette

This one is overlooked almost universally.

When a meeting is confirmed, do you send a calendar invite or accept theirs?

Do you show up on time?

Do you have the video link ready if it's virtual?

These aren't small things to a hiring manager.

They're data points about whether you're someone who is organized, prepared, and respectful of other people's time.

5. Your Professionalism Across Every Touchpoint

Every interaction before the interview is part of the interview.

The LinkedIn message to the recruiter.

The email to the coordinator scheduling the call.

The follow-up note after the initial conversation (always send a thank you note!).

Each one is an opportunity to reinforce that you're someone who takes this seriously.

Or to quietly raise a concern that you're not.

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOU

The soccer industry is small enough that reputation travels fast.

The habits you build around communication, professionalism, and attention to detail will follow you throughout your career.

👉 This week, audit one touchpoint, whether it’s your LinkedIn profile, your email signature, or your initial outreach template, and make it better.

Small things compound.

Make sure yours are working for you.

-Kyle Sheldon, Co-Founder & CEO

ICYMI: MUST-READ ARTICLES

📰 Extra! Extra! Here are a few quick reads to stay up to date with the latest soccer happenings...

ALSO…

  1. If this email was forwarded to you, you can sign up here to ensure you get every issue (sent on Wednesdays!) directly in your inbox.

  2. And, if you’re a club or brand looking to get in front of ambitious talent in soccer, drop us a line.

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SEE YOU SOON, SOCCER FRIENDS

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