In a society obsessed with social media’s connecting, following, sharing, and hash tagging. People skills are increasingly becoming a skill that can push you ahead or set you back.
Many college football players feel lost and out of place on college campuses across the country. For many student athletes, it can be their first time away from home. It’s quite possible they may be submerged in a diverse culture for the first time, while having to adjust to their new teammates and coaches as well. Nonetheless, some students may arrive to college with the people skills to survive, but it’s not guaranteed they will thrive!
Check out our top four reasons football players need to focus on mastering people skills and please encourage someone to start their journey today!
1.) Diversity– College is a melting pot, allowing for various forms of diversity to include: racial, spiritual and geographic to name a few. Learning how to collaborate with people from multicultural backgrounds is critical for college athletes. College presents a unique opportunity to learn from people, meet new friends, and increase your network.
2.) Opportunity- You will miss the boat if you go to college and don’t take advantage of the opportunity to connect with others. How can you connect if you don’t have people skills? College isn’t just about walking away with a degree or an NFL opportunity, it’s about building relationships with new friends that may one day end up in your wedding or help you start that non-profit. Always remember, the people who accomplish the most good in the world are usually the people who are the most connected!
3.) No Parental Help– For some athletes, their families may live in another city or state when they go off to college. Knowing that distance may present challenges for parents to provide guidance during problematic situations and misunderstandings that may occur during the college years. It is critical to develop the necessary interpersonal communication skills that will ensure fundamental structure to navigate through the college years and beyond. Mom, Dad and Grandma will not be around to hold your hand!
4.) Team Player– Your success on the field will be a result of dedication, perseverance and commitment. Your coaches placing you at the top of the depth chart will be a result of your tireless efforts. Getting along with teammates and proving to be reliable will show that you can become an important piece to the team’s success. Having great people skills always helps athletes become more likable within the locker room as well as with the coaching staff. Conversely, players with bad people skills usually end up causing trouble and ultimately leaving the team.
(Before You Go Pro is a content based mentoring company for aspiring college football players. If you would like a FREE consultation, click on the picture below and schedule yours today!)
