In this episode, David discusses effective networking strategies for breaking into and thriving within the competitive, closed-off football industry ecosystem. David emphasizes that the vast majority of jobs are filled through internal promotion or existing networks, not external recruitment.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

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  The Industry is a Closed Ecosystem: Only 15-20% of job vacancies in football are externally recruited, with over 70% filled by internal promotions, making a strong network essential for access.

  
  


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  Build a Recognizable Personal Brand: Creating a unique, consistent public presence (via social media, podcasts, etc.) is a highly effective networking strategy, as it allows others to pre-vet and download data on you, making outreach easier.

  
  


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  Volunteer for Your Breakthrough: Volunteering and project work are the most accessible, low-risk, and free ways to acquire evidence of your ambition and capabilities.

  
  


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  Lead with Value and Sincerity: When connecting, focus on what you can offer the other person. Avoid being overly pushy or having a short-term, transactional mindset, as successful relationships are built on long-term investment, authenticity, and mutual trust.

  
  


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  Use LinkedIn as a Showcase, Not a Deal Closer: LinkedIn is vital for establishing your credentials and public image, but the real, deep networking and relationship-building often happen away from the platform, at events, or in private groups.

  
  

BEST MOMENTS

"I saw a really harrowing statistic that came to my attention that only 15 to 20% of all job vacancies in football are externally recruited."

"Everything I've spoken about before. Anyone can run the football business ecosystem. non-executive owners, non-league football clubs, C-level executives, private business owners."

"Building a brand, this can be as simple or as complex as you decide. In my journey, I have gone for a podcast."

"You have to be consistent with your own results and the work that you're doing. You have to show results."

"A lot of the actual intricate, deep networking takes place away from LinkedIn, group chats, football business groups, and networking events."

OUR SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-chimbaza-/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebusinessoffootballpodcast/

Tik Tok : https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoffootball

HOST BIO

Right out of the block, David Chimbaza took his International Football Business degree to do exactly what it says on the tin: Launch his own International Football Business, DTCMEDIAUK. His company works with professional leaders & business owners in the football industry to create, monetize & scale their brands for their business & professional gains. Having created and managed multiple of his own sports social media accounts from the age of 15, many of which have scaled thousands of pounds & millions of views across 3 different platforms, David has constantly found ways to bring new and engaging entertainment to his audience.  Now documenting his story of managing his Global business, his experiences in Stewarding, digital management & many more, David will bring you a fresh insight into how anyone can conquer the industry. 

This Podcast has been brought to you by Disruptive Media. https://disruptivemedia.co.uk/