By Ryan Bauman

People want to get jobs based on their credentials and skills, but often it's who you know that lands you the job.

I've been told this for as long as I can remember, and it's reinforced here at Ferris' PTM program more than anywhere else I've heard.  Networking is a big part of the tennis industry and it's something that PTM prides itself on.  It was one of the benefits that made me decide to attend PTM so when I arrived I said, "Okay, I'm ready to start networking!"  But it really takes a lot more effort and a lot more patience than I had anticipated.

I've been in the PTM program for six months now and looking back on it I've been given several opportunities to build my tennis network.  In the first semester PTM invited a total of six speakers to come talk to students and interview for internships.  This semester PTM has brought in four speakers so far and plans on bringing in several more.  (Stay tuned for coverage in April!) These are great opportunities to practice interviews, build networks for post-graduation, and find internships for the summer months. 

Our largest annual event, the PTM Banquet, is the best opportunity to network with some of the bigwigs in the industry.  It gathers speakers from all over the world and in the highest tiers of the tennis industry.  This year's theme is "An Evening with the Masters" and PTM is bringing in five Master Professionals, including two who hold that highest rank from both United States Professional Tennis Association and Professional Tennis Registry.  Only six people worldwide hold this title, and we'll meet two of them in April. It's a huge opportunitiy for all of us students to gain knowledge of the industry and to build that network.

This is great for PTM students, but if you're not a PTM student, where do you start networking or continue networking?  The best option I've been told is to network at the regional, national, and international tennis conventions, such as the USPTA World Conference.  A tip for starting a relationship with some of the tennis greats may be to listen to a speech or presentation, remember some key points that piqued your interest, and approach the speaker after his or her presentation is over.  This is a great way to introduce yourself and keep yourself in his or her memory. 

Once the conference is over be sure to send the speaker an e-mail and a written thank-you letter or card.  Something I learned very quickly at PTM was the importance of a thank-you letter.  It can make or break a good-standing relationship with someone you may want to network with in the future.

Some dates for upcoming conferences and events include:

Midwest USPTA Conference, February 27 - March 1  2010
Ferris PTM Banquet, April 9 - 11 2010