Don't Dive In

There’s a pull that football has.

For anyone who loves the game, the idea of working in it feels like a dream. Every week, I see people desperate to break in. Ready to quit stable jobs, take a pay cut, move across the country. Anything to “make it.”

But here’s the harder truth: football is an incredible industry to work in, and also a difficult one to navigate.

Especially at the start.

The Boring Truth About Working in Football

It’s rarely a clean path in.

Most people start with volunteering, internships, part-time gigs or unpaid work. And even when you land a full-time role, it can still come with instability. Limited pay, short-term contracts, unclear career progression.

This is especially tough if you’re transitioning from a well-paid industry.

The emotional pull might be strong, but the financial drop can be real. And unless you’ve come through the traditional pipeline (like sports degrees or academy pathways), it’s unlikely your first role will be full-time at a club.

That’s the boring reality behind the dream.

The Smart Way In

Recently, in my Recruitment Room Community, Will Tomlinson joined for a live Q&A. His story is a brilliant reminder that there’s more than one way to do this.

Right now, Will works full-time as a data analyst in a sector he enjoys. The job pays well, he’s treated fairly, and he gets the kind of benefits you don’t often find in football.

On the side, he’s built a public portfolio online, mostly via X. In the evenings and at weekends, he analyses matches, shares insights and builds his craft. That portfolio has opened doors. Freelance work with companies, agents and even players directly.

He’s doing work in football. On his own terms.

And for now? That balance works.

A Familiar Pattern

Will’s path mirrors my own early journey.

Before I stepped into football full-time, I did the same thing. Side projects. Freelance. Late nights. Opportunities started coming not because I forced it, but because I gave it time and built trust along the way.

The temptation to jump straight in is real. But often, the better path is slower, quieter, more considered.

Final Thought

Football is emotional. The careers inside it shouldn’t be.

Before you leap, pause.

Ask yourself:

• Is this the right opportunity for me?

• Can I afford to take the hit in pay or stability?

• Does this role make sense for where I am in life?

You don’t have to work at a club to work in football. There are consultancies, data firms, scouting companies. Roles that give you flexibility, fair pay and impact. Sometimes, that’s the better fit.

I’m still a big advocate for working in football. It’s brought me incredible moments, and I know how meaningful it can be.

But don’t let the dream make you forget your own reality.

You can still get there. You just don’t need to dive in two feet first.

Whenever you’re ready, there are two ways I can help you:

1. Free 1-2-1 Breakthrough Call - Frustrated trying to break into football recruitment? Tired of rejection after rejection? No idea how to get your first role in professional scouting or analysis? Get your free Football Career breakthrough Call to create a clear pathway to reach your goals in the football industry.
2. Recruitment Room - My online membership community helps aspiring and new football professionals secure jobs working in recruitment. Master the four pillars of scouting, analysis, online portfolio, and employment. Learn from industry experts through our workshops, hot seats, and live sessions.