Gone are the days of “throw a tantrum – make a buck”. With sponsorship and endorsement deals pouring in, athletes need to remember that maintaining a positive image not only makes good sense personally, but can add up to major dollars and cents as well.
- Your image is your legacy. Of course fans will remember what you did on the field, court, rink, pool, etc. but how you handle yourself personally breeds respect or disrespect.
- Bad Boys turn off consumers. Corporate sponsors are looking for “Mr. Nice Guy” to sell their products. How you conduct yourself on and off the field can make or break some very lucrative deals.
- Be aware of how others perceive you at all times. How you interact with coaches, fans, even the mailman all feeds in to your personal image.
- Keep your cool and maintain your focus. You can’t be a star athlete forever, but building a positive personal image or brand can keep those endorsement dollars rolling in.