In today’s digital age, it is surprising to see many athletes neglecting their social media accounts. Outdated posts, lack of engagement, and a general absence of meaningful content about the athlete are all too common. As a professional football player, whether you’re at the top of your game or still working your way up, you should have a substantial following. So why don’t you?
Some athletes may argue, “Why do I need social media when my club already handles it?” or “It doesn’t make sense for me.”
But let me ask you this: Why wouldn’t you want to cultivate a dedicated fan base that supports you throughout your career? A platform where you have control over the content and can establish your personal brand? A potential source of income?
In today’s interconnected world, going viral has never been easier, and making money through social media has become a reality. Athletes must view themselves as brands and continuously market themselves. Social media provides athletes with the power to protect and influence their personal brand.
Take Cristiano Ronaldo, for example. He boasts an impressive following of 215 million across Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. With a Nike contract worth around $13 million annually, Ronaldo’s own social media accounts have generated an astounding $36 million in value for Nike, according to “Hookit.” Ronaldo is not just an exceptional soccer player; he is a brand in himself.
Here’s a secret: In some recruitment processes, when faced with three athletes of similar skill levels, the number of followers and fan base often comes into play. Imagine a soccer player who brings a million fans to a club. More sold tickets, a larger and more loyal fan base, increased merchandise sales – every post becomes more viral. Now, compare that to a soccer player with similar skills but only 1,000 followers. Can you guess what would happen?
You might argue that this criterion doesn’t apply to the sports industry and that performance is all that matters. However, in many industries, this has become the norm. Models, actors, and photographers are chosen based on their followers. Just look at Kendall Jenner, Bella Hadid, or the phenomenon that is Kim Kardashian.
Soccer is not just a sport; it has become a lifestyle for families, and this trend will only continue. Teams and players need to be successful, but fans also want to see the human side of their favorite athletes beyond the field.
As an athlete, you have a unique opportunity to stand out. You can show your fans who you are and interact with them. While they may only see you playing or during interviews, we all know that interviews can sometimes be dull. Give your audience a glimpse into your life and let them be part of your journey.
Building a strong social media presence may seem effortless, but it requires a well-crafted strategy. With the right approach, you can show your fans that you’re not just talented in your sport but also intelligent, attractive, and likable.
Investing time and money in social media is an investment in your future. It increases your visibility on an international scale and opens doors to lucrative advertising deals. Moreover, it allows you to showcase projects close to your heart, such as charitable initiatives.
Athletes often lack the time to spend hours on social media, and rightfully so – their primary focus should be on their sport. This is why agencies and professionals exist to handle social media matters.
Whether you’re an athlete or a coach, long-term planning can be challenging in a fast-paced environment where everything changes from one day to another. By actively engaging on social media, you can maintain your visibility long after your sports career is over.
