The PFA’s LinkedIn Player Workshops kicked off in Perth with the Glory players undertaking a detailed tutorial on the networking social media platform.
Set to be rolled out across the country to all A-League and National Team players, the workshops aim to equip players with the skills to take advantage of the power of LinkedIn, including getting started, how to use it effectively and how to best manage your network.
Administered by former Olympic rower Shaun Coulton, PFA National Manager of the Player Development Ben Robertson said the 90 minute workshop was an overwhelming success.
“The feedback from the players was really positive,” said Robertson. “Professional athletes are afforded a unique opportunity to network and LinkedIn provides a brilliant platform for players to take advantage of the opportunities they are afforded.
“The workshops aim to ensure players are equipped to get started on LinkedIn, and have the skills to use it effectively to grow their network.
“A key component of the PFA Player Development Program is empowering players to take control of their lives on and off the pitch, LinkedIn can be invaluable in assisting players in preparing for life after football.
“The workshop is also inline with the PFA’s ‘Beyond the 90’ work experience program and ‘Business Builders,’ which aims to help players develop business ideas they may have, and ensure players who may not wish to gain tertiary qualifications have options to develop away from football.”
Perth Glory forward Chris Harold said the workshop was hugely beneficial for the players.
“I started using LinkedIn a while ago but I wasn’t getting the most out of it,” said Harold. “Shaun’s knowledge was huge and will help me get the most out it now.
“Some players hadn’t set one up so he talked them through how to do that. As footballers we have a lot of great opportunities to network and a lot of people find what we do interesting and LinkedIn is the perfect avenue to take advantage of that.”
For more information on the PFA’s LinkedIn Workshops contact your Player Development Manager or PFA National Manager of Player Development Ben Robertson via ben@pfa.net.au.
