There are are a few common themes that follow the industry of sports. Many will say, “it’s not what you know, it’s who you know,” while others will say, “always be in rooms you aren’t suppose to be in.” These networking techniques are great for getting you in, but sometimes we forget the importance of continuing the relationship once we are there.
Today, we had the opportunity to hear from Marc Iacovelli, Director of Program Planning and Scheduling at NBC Sports, who proved this importance through the countless relationships the network has been able to build and utilize. We were also able to tour the entire campus with Craig Kaufman, Director of Studio and Technical Operations at NBC Sports.
During our time at NBC Sports, Marc briefed us on the company and its success in the broadcast realm of sports, which always seemed to come back to a certain lesson: relationships within the business need to be nurtured. The “big asks” become more authentic when they are coming from a trusted partner and friend, rather than a pure business endeavor. The relationships NBC has built were not instant transactions, but instead years of hard work in order to gain trust and knowledge of one another.
“The business structure that we learned at NBC Sports today offers wise advice: relationships take time and effort. This network we are creating is far more than LinkedIn endorsements and letters of recommendation – they are a foundation of knowledge, support, and genuine friendship.”
As our sixth week in New York City comes and goes, it is now more than ever that my classmates and I are beginning to speak of next steps and the approaching conclusion of our summer with MSBA. How can we keep the relationships we’ve built with one another, our Mentors, and the countless other incredible people we’ve met close to us as our physical distance widens? The business structure that we learned at NBC Sports today offers wise advice: relationships take time and effort. This network we are creating is far more than LinkedIn endorsements and letters of recommendation – it is a foundation of knowledge, support, and genuine friendship.
The effects of this summer will be felt long after the eight weeks we are here. It has become evident that the relationships we’ve gained in the city have the power to translate into great things if, and only if, we are able to put in the work for the long haul.