Guest contribution by Kelly Kilpatrick, who writes on the subject of sports management college. She invites your feedback at kellykilpatrick24@gmail.com.

With the NFL Draft and the NFL post-season upon us, sports fans are all buzzing in speculation about who will be the next big thing for the 2009 season.  Sports agents will be out in full force promoting and negotiating for their clients.  What does it take to become a sports agent?  Take a look and see what you can learn…

Education

Education is the cornerstone of any successful career, and being a sports agent is no exception.  Laying the foundation for your career is important, and this can be done by earning a bachelor’s degree in a variety of fields, and then going on to law school to ensure that you have the proper legal skill set to perform your duties as an agent.

Intricate Knowledge of the Way Sports Recruiting Works

Many fans can tell you about all the ins and outs regarding sports recruiting.  Like anything else, it is a multifaceted venture that requires politicking, know-how, and a willingness to go out there and earn the respect of prospective clients and scouts as well.  Be prepared to learn and pay your dues.

Internship

Like many professional careers, interning for an agency can help you learn how the profession works and may even help you to get your foot in the door at a later date.  While some agencies only need interns during the summer, there are many that need help year-round.  Expect to do everything and then some while you learn how to do one of the toughest and most coveted jobs in entertainment.

Network

You have to know some people, which is why it is so important to do the other steps first.  Naturally, when you study for a specific career, chances are you will have a rudimentary knowledge of the business and a few contacts.  After some time, however, a network should be firmly established or your business and clientele will certainly suffer as a result.

Love of the Game

You need to have not only a love of the game of the athletes you promote as a sports agent, but the game of promotion and negotiation as well.  A good agent knows how to play the game and always keeps his or her clients’ best interests in mind whenever doing business.