NIL hasn’t just opened doors for athletes at the high school and collegiate level; it’s created an entirely new job category: the NIL Director. And let’s be real—these folks are juggling a ton. It’s also important to note that despite their workload, many NIL Directors don’t see the same pay as other directors or coaches, with some making between $75,000 and $125,000, according to recent reports. As a Division I fundraiser, I remember how stretched thin I felt—and that was in an established role! NIL Directors are doing incredible work for their schools, programs, and athletes, all while navigating a rapidly evolving industry. Their role demands adaptability and constant organization. With that in mind, here are 14 tips to help NIL Directors thrive in a constantly-changing field.
14 Tips to Help NIL Directors in a Challenging Role
Maintain clear and accessible communication channels. Keep lines of communication open with athletes, coaches, and compliance officers. Simple, streamlined communication can prevent misunderstandings and help athletes make informed decisions. With so many moving pieces, consider setting up bi-weekly or monthly meetings to check with athletes, coaches or compliance.
Encourage personal brand development. Whenever possible, support athletes in building their personal brands responsibly. This includes guiding them on social media strategy, public speaking, and brand alignment. If your time is limited, reach out to your schools’ alumni network and see if a former athlete is willing to speak to your athletes.
Build a network of legal advisors. As NIL regulations vary by state and school, NIL directors benefit from having a legal network to help ensure compliance and protect athletes from complex contracts. Partner with an existing legal team at your institution, or find supplemental support through your alumni network.
Stay updated on NIL trends. There are never enough hours in the day when working in college athletics (I’ve been there!), however, it’s so important to read industry news, attend workshops, and join professional groups. Doing so can keep you ahead of industry shifts and aware of new opportunities. If your school is limited in resources and/or funding, find easy ways to stay on top of trends, such as signing up for Google Alerts. Receiving daily or weekly digests are great ways to read updates your convenience.
Create a centralized data system. Use a secure platform to track athlete deals, contracts, and brand agreements. Having a centralized hub saves time and improves accuracy in monitoring agreements and renewals. The accuracy of your data can help you stay on top of deadlines.
Implement regular training for athletes. Host workshops to educate athletes on NIL basics, including contract literacy, financial literacy, and brand management, so they can engage confidently in the marketplace. In person or virtual session help athletes, coaches and compliance, and serve as great resources for athletes looking to leverage their personal brands after school.
Partner with compliance experts. Collaborate often with your compliance team or network who can help you navigate NCAA and school regulations. This reduces liability risks and keeps everyone on the same page.
Develop a crisis management plan. It’s better to be prepared for that worst case scenario, especially when NIL deals may expose athletes to unforeseen public scrutiny. Have a plan for handling reputational issues that may arise from NIL agreements. This can also allow you to act quickly and not just impulsively if a situation happens.
Leverage technology for efficiency. Tools like CRM systems, contract management platforms, and communication tools can streamline your workflow and improve coordination across departments.
Establish guidelines for brand partnerships. Set clear criteria for brand endorsements, ensuring they align with university values and avoid controversial industries that could harm the athlete’s or school’s image. Having guidelines will also ensure consistency across all sports.
Set clear boundaries and expectations. You might be overseeing multiple NIL deals, however, you are only one person. Ensure all parties understand your boundaries and communicate what support athletes can expect. Providing this type of clarity helps prevent overextension and burnout, especially during peak times throughout multiple seasons.
Invest in Your Own Continuing Education. Don’t let an overwhelming schedule prevent you from growing your own knowledge base. Because NIL is so new, consider taking courses in sports law, digital marketing, or brand management to stay relevant and effective.
Establish an Alumni Network. Create a mentorship program linking current athletes with alumni who have NIL experience, which will provide valuable insights, support and opportunities for athletes once their playing days come to an end.
Focus on Financial Transparency. Being clear on fees, revenue shares, and the financial implications of deals can help athletes make informed choices and build trust. Having to surprise athletes with unexpected costs such as taxes or other fees they’ll have to pay is not a fun conversation to have.
I give so much credit to NIL Directors who are trying to navigate roles that haven’t even been around for five years. Lean into your network of peer schools and take a few minutes each day to stay organized, informed, and prepared for changes. Excelling in your role means investing in yourself, and the better you are, the better you’ll be able to support athletes on their NIL journey.