A quick story: in college, I wanted to take a popular public speaking class to boost my confidence and work on my presentation skills. The issue? The professor was notorious for giving athletes a hard time and bad grades. So what did I do? You guessed it…. I took the course! For a whole semester, I wore non-athletic gear to class, sat in the front row, and made sure my classes/games didn’t conflict with class. After getting an A, (or maybe it was a B+?) I remember the professor finding out that I was an athlete, and was shocked because, and I quote: “you don’t seem like or dress like an athlete”. I’ll just leave that comment there.
While it may seem unfair, one undeniable truth is that how others perceive you can greatly influence the opportunities that come your way. Your image—how you dress, communicate, and interact with others—plays a crucial role in shaping others’ perceptions. From landing a spot on a team or a leadership role to being considered for a raise or management opportunity, refining your image can make all the difference. Whether it’s right or not, I’ve seen countless times where fellow DI athletes were passed over for opportunities because they didn’t refine their image. If you’re preparing to get to the next level, here are some practical ways you can elevate your presentation to unlock new opportunities.
How Athletes Can Open Doors by Improving Their Image
Dress the Part. Just as the professor told me ‘you don’t dress like an athlete’, one of the first things people notice is how you dress, so make it count. Many athletes spend much of their time in team gear or casual workout clothes. While it’s comfortable and familiar, stepping up your wardrobe outside of practice and game days can make a strong impression. Dressing professionally not only shows respect for the occasion but also reflects your commitment to excellence. Invest in a few staple items like a tailored blazer, crisp shirts, slacks, and well-fitted shoes. You don’t need an extensive wardrobe—just a few quality pieces to help you look polished and put-together. And you don’t have to break your budget by shopping at high-end stores. Stores like Marshalls, TJ Maxx and Kohl’s have some great options if you’re willing to sift through the racks.
Develop Strong Communication Skills. Whether you’re addressing a room of executives or chatting with teammates, communication is essential. Many athletes excel in performance and discipline but may struggle to articulate their ideas or express themselves confidently in non-sport settings. Start by practicing clear, concise communication. Be mindful of body language—eye contact, posture, and hand gestures all contribute to how others perceive your confidence and authenticity. Consider working with a mentor or coach to refine these skills, as they’ll serve you well in professional environments.
3. Showcase Team-First Mentality. Being a team player is crucial, but it also needs to be visible. Former athletes, especially, may face assumptions that they’re highly competitive or only accustomed to “winning” mindsets, which can seem like a disadvantage in collaborative or corporate environments. Highlight your ability to work well with others by providing examples of teamwork and collaboration. Show that you can adapt to diverse environments and be both a leader and a supporter, depending on what the team needs. When employers or coaches see you as flexible and collaborative, they’re more likely to see you as an asset.
Be Proactive with Self-Presentation Online. Social media is a double-edged sword for athletes. While it offers a platform to showcase achievements, it can also project a limited view of who you are. Make a conscious effort to align your online presence with your professional aspirations. Update your LinkedIn profile, share content that reflects your interests beyond sports, and limit posts that might seem unprofessional. Create an image that potential employers or recruiters can envision within their organization.
Network with Purpose. Many opportunities are hidden in plain sight, only accessible to those with strong professional connections. Networking may seem daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. Start by attending events in your field of interest, even virtual ones. Be intentional about connecting with people who share your goals and can help open doors. Approach networking as a long-term investment in your career, not as a quick-fix. The connections you make today could be invaluable when you’re ready for a career pivot or aiming for a promotion.
Display a Growth Mindset. One thing that often distinguishes star athletes from leaders is a commitment to personal development. Show a willingness to learn new skills, whether it’s by attending workshops, taking online courses, or reading on topics that interest you. A growth mindset demonstrates that you’re adaptable and continuously evolving—qualities that employers value. When you position yourself as someone open to growth, people are more likely to see your potential beyond your athletic accomplishments.
Be Authentic. Above all, be yourself. Authenticity fosters trust and respect, both of which are essential for long-term success. While you want to polish and refine certain aspects of your image, staying true to who you are will help you connect genuinely with others. Authenticity doesn’t mean complacency—it means being honest about your strengths and areas of growth. By showing up as your real self, you create a brand that’s relatable and memorable.
Your athletic achievements and hard work have already laid a strong foundation for you. However, refining your image and presentation can further propel you toward new opportunities. Think of it as an extension of the discipline and dedication you already apply to sports. By focusing on how you present yourself—through attire, communication, teamwork, online presence, networking, a growth mindset, and authenticity—you’ll be well on your way to standing out and reaching the next level in your career journey.