A.D.MINISTRATION ATHLETIC DIRECTOR STRATEGIES
From personal dress to communications make sure you’re sending a message of professionalism no matter what you’re doing.
Strive For Professionalism In All Aspects Of Your Job
Define what it means to be a professional and live by that concept
Baltimore County, Md. A
t a recent conference, albeit one held by a professional association, the term “pro-
fessionalism” was used repeatedly in almost every session. As athletic administrators, we know this concept is involved and extremely important with respect to the position, but can anyone completely and accurately explain it?
The term can be used in refer- ence to one’s appearance, efforts, language and philosophical op- erating foundations. How many times have you heard someone simply proclaim, “Be a profes- sional”? Since there isn’t an ex- isting guidebook to explain the aspects and steps to achieve pro-
8 March/April 2013
By Dr. David Hoch, CMAA, Retired,
fessionalism, the following are some ideas to consider.
Professional Dress With respect to professional at- tire, it varies greatly. The concept of “Casual Friday” has crept into the business world, but most ex- ecutives, lawyers, doctors and other professionals routinely wear a suit or at least a coat and tie. These in- dividuals dress for success and they promote a particular image. A coat and tie and comparable dress for females may be the norm for many occasions as an athletic administrator—meeting with par- ents and vendors, conducting public meetings and any time you are rep- resenting the school. This is normal business attire. When you are help- ing to line a field or store equipment, however, your dress changes and this is acceptable. Dress according to the expectations of the situation.
Professional Communication When it comes to language, a professional is clear, concise and speaks to the level and background of his or her audience. Since an ath- letic director is a representative of an educational institution, never use foul or inappropriate language and always strive to be grammatically correct. This is a reasonable expec- tation for someone in your position. You are judged by how well you express yourself verbally and in written form. Since you are the fig- urehead of the athletic department, which is the most visible aspect of education, you often represent or serve as the spokesperson for the school. Your language and commu- nication skills are more important than you imagine.
Professional Standards & Ethics Beyond appearance and commu- nication, there are several other com- ponents of professionalism. Hold yourself accountable to the highest standards when it comes to ethics, honesty, integrity and dependability. Place the best interests of your student-athletes, coaches and pro- gram as your ultimate goal and basis for your efforts as an athletic direc- tor. In Education-Based Athletics, providing the best environment for learning and developing life-long qualities is the real purpose at the high school level. Doing what is right and best for your program is your only choice. Doing what is right sometimes leads to individuals in the school and community being unhappy with your decisions. It also means pres- sure and criticism are applied to you. As a professional, you have to deal with everyone in a polite and courteous manner even in the face of challenges and possibly obnoxious behavior.
Part of your job as an athletic di-
rector is to listen to concerns and complaints. While listening doesn’t
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