Cleveland Browns Executives Talk About the ‘Wow’ Factor at Career Development Summit
“How am I going to get hired after college” is a common question that runs through the minds of college students on a regular basis. Working hard in school and gaining experience are two elements discussed frequently throughout college careers, but what is going to impress a hiring manager and put Findlay graduates ahead of everyone else?
This week, during the University of Findlay’s third annual Browns Edge Career Development Summit, students of all majors listened to Cleveland Browns executives discuss how to successfully land an internship or full-time job in addition to the many roles that make up a professional sports organization.
To make the summit more meaningful for students, breakout sessions were designed specifically for those attending for the first time as well as returning students. A variety of topics were covered throughout the day including “Building Your Career in Sports,” “The Value of Internships,” “Tickets and Sales” and more. Each presentation came down to a common theme relative to all career fields, the “wow” factor.
While speaking to the veteran group about the role of sales in the sports industry, Josh Young, director of ticket sales, shared that “there are a number of things they look at that aren’t directly related to sales” when hiring. He explained that gaining experience in a variety of roles throughout college such as selling tickets to events on campus or helping in the development office can be great experience.
Young also described the candidates who simply want to work in sports, but do not have the drive to work in sales and do not get hired. According to Young, those who demonstrate personality, energy, potential for growth and a competitive trait can sway hiring managers and land jobs in their field.
In the “Value of Internships” session with first-time attendees, student had an open discussion with several Browns professionals. While reflecting on internships fulfilled with the Cleveland Browns, Kelly Carroll, senior manager of corporate partnerships, admitted, “our jobs aren’t the most glamorous at times, but you’re really proud of the end result.”
She also assured the audience that their interns don’t do any jobs that the full-time staff wouldn’t do. Later, a student asked what they can do specifically to make them more marketable to hiring managers.
“Hustle harder than everyone else,” said Corey Kinder, manager of fan experience and special events. “Your cover letter has to be amazing and wow us.”
The summit concluded with an opportunity for students to network with the Browns executives and students who currently intern or volunteer with the Browns.
The Browns Edge Career Development Summit is part of the Browns Edge Program, an exclusive educational collaboration between the organization and University that offers internships, networking opportunities and scholarships.
To view photos from the event, visit UF’s Browns Summit Flickr Album here.