She’s Got Next: Advice

We’re celebrating the first year of “She’s Got Next” with the greatest hits from our conversations with movers and shakers in the world of women’s sports.

What was the top advice from our guests in 2023? Whether you’re starting out in your career, moving into management, or a veteran of the sports game, we can all learn a little something from these wise women.

Read the comments. Yes, it can be painful, but it’s critical for Jesse Ladoue McMullen, Marketing Director, Licensed Sports, New Era Cap. “Reading the comments fuels me and makes me want to celebrate women louder. It motivates me to continue to forge my own path so more women see themselves in this industry without limitation.”

Pay it forward. “If someone…believes in you enough to take a chance on you, your skills and your ability, be sure to pay it forward and help open doors for those who succeed you,” said Danette Leighton, CEO Women’s Sports Foundation. “At every step of your journey, strive to be a role model, because you never know who could be looking to you for inspiration.

Stay true to your values. “My advice for young women who want to pursue a career in the sports industry is to stay anchored to the innocence and the why behind what made you fall in love with the game in the first place,” said Nikki Bartholomew, head coach FC Buffalo. “Continue to increase your inner strength with your success so you can develop into your full potential.”

There’s room for everyone. “Give it your best. Don’t compete with co-workers; work alongside them. Be a leader. Show your creativity and your dedication. We notice these things,” said Naomi Silver, president CEO and COO of Rochester Community Baseball

Embrace cold calling. “Read everything. Have subscriptions to newspapers, read books, read fiction, nonfiction, whatever you want. … Search the websites of news organizations you admire or would want to work for and send emails—cold, out of the blue emails, which I absolutely encourage,” said Christine Brennan, sports columnist.