At times, you may think to yourself you may know all there is to know about a certain subject. Whether it’s a school subject like algebra or chemistry or an interest like your favorite actress or sports team. Knowing as much about a subject can help you stand out in a sea of like-minded people. This is no different than working for your favorite professional sports team in the club’s public relations department. That dream is possibly attainable, but you may not find that role for a long period.

So why am I discussing the subject of knowledge and the need to study various materials? Because the more you know the better suited you will be to work within the sports industry.

At times, many students believe they will be working in their favorite sport for their favorite team once graduating from college. And while that has happened in cases, that is not normally standard practice. So, if you can’t work in your favorite sport for your favorite team, what should you do?

You need to learn. You need to know more about one sport or one team. You need to diversify your knowledge.

Whether it’s a basic understanding of a sport you are hoping to work in or potentially a different department within the sports industry, learning new facts and information will only benefit you and your career. Most likely you will not have the same role and responsibilities at a single entity for your entire career.

For instance, a role could open at an NBA team’s communications department that would result in a 40 percent pay increase and a new title. However, your role will entail switching a department related to public relations, but not directly associated with the department. Also, you have worked in the sport of baseball for five years and have no understanding of working in a new sport. As a result of a lack of knowledge of the sport and new department, a job that interests you will be less achievement because of that knowledge gap.

A career in sports is not always a clear path. Sometimes, you may have to take yourself down a windy path to achieve your goal. Do not limit yourself and your overall potential when you have resources at your fingertips to learn more.

Be willing to Learn more about ticket sales work. Be willing to learn more about Major League Soccer. Be willing to ask for advice from someone looking to enter a different side of the sports industry. Do not be afraid to learn more.

I am not saying you must become an expert, however, there are things you can do. Possibly watch a new team or sport that you may not be experienced in. Personally, I am not the biggest NBA fan in the world, but I can tell you who the biggest players in the league are. I do not want to work in digital marketing; however, I have taken a class to learn more about how that industry can affect sports.

The more you are willing to learn, the better and well-rounded candidate you can be in your next job in sports communications.