I spoke at the California Athletic Director’s Association annual conference in the Spring of 2024. One of the things that I told the room during my talk titled “BUILDING A WINNING TEAM: 5 STRATEGIES FOR HIRING CHAMPIONSHIP-CALIBER ATHLETIC DEPARTMENT PERSONNEL” was to start thinking creatively about where to search for coaches. Here in California, many districts put their vacancies on one website: Ed Join.
Whether you’re scouting for a seasoned veteran or a fresh face with innovative ideas, casting a wide net in your search can yield remarkable results. In today’s competitive coaching and athletic landscape, finding the right fit for your team goes beyond traditional methods. It requires a strategic approach that encompasses various platforms and networks. Here’s how you can expand your horizons and maximize your chances of discovering the perfect match for your coaching vacancy.
When it comes to advertising coaching positions, it’s essential to explore a diverse range of avenues to reach potential candidates effectively. Leveraging coach association websites proves to be a valuable strategy. These platforms, whether national, state, or local, serve as hubs for coaches seeking new opportunities. For instance, the job board of the National Field Hockey Coaches Association can attract qualified applicants who are actively engaged in the field hockey community.
In today’s digital age, social media has emerged as a powerful tool for networking and recruitment. Facebook groups tailored to coaches offer a treasure trove of talent waiting to be discovered. By searching for relevant groups like “Field Hockey Coach,” you can tap into a pool of experienced professionals and enthusiastic newcomers alike. Engaging with these communities not only advertises your coaching vacancy but also fosters connections that may lead to promising referrals.
Another fruitful avenue to explore is reaching out to coaches serving on prominent advisory committees within your County or State Associations. While these individuals may already hold coaching positions, their insights and networks can be invaluable in spreading the word about your vacancy. Even if they are not actively seeking a new role, they might know someone who fits the bill perfectly. Investing time in cultivating relationships with these influential figures can amplify your recruitment efforts.
For instance, here in California, the CIF Section Offices have “Coaches Advisory” groups for every sport. When I was an Athletic Director, and had an opening, I would always get on the CIF website, find the coaches on that advisory group, and email them all! Most of those on the Advisory Committee are Head Coaches, and won’t be looking around for a job usually, but you never know. However, they can help you to spread the word on this vacancy.
In addition to established platforms, don’t overlook the potential of niche message boards dedicated to your sport. These forums serve as virtual meeting grounds for enthusiasts, where discussions range from strategy and tactics to job opportunities. By engaging with communities such as the Field Hockey Forum, you can directly connect with individuals who are passionate about the sport and eager to make an impact as a coach.
As you embark on your quest to find the perfect coach, remember that diversity and inclusivity are key. Casting a wide net not only expands your candidate pool but also enriches your team with a variety of perspectives and experiences. Embrace the opportunity to explore unconventional channels and engage with individuals who may bring a fresh perspective to your coaching staff.
In conclusion, the search for the ideal coach requires a proactive and multifaceted approach. By leveraging coach association websites, social media groups, advisory committees, and niche message boards, you can cast a wide net and attract candidates who embody the qualities and values your team holds dear. Embrace the journey of discovery, and may you find the perfect coach to lead your team to new heights of success.
Chris Fore has his Masters degree in Athletic Administration, is a Certified Athletic Administrator and currently works as a Principal in Southern California (yes, he went to the “dark side” after 17 years of coaching!) He served as the President of the California Coaches Association for 3 years. Fore is the CEO of Eight Laces Consulting which specializes in helping coaches nationwide in their job search process. Fore has been named to the Hudl Top 100 Coaches, and the Top 5 Best High School Football Coaches to follow on Twitter by MaxPreps. Follow him!
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