ISU professor pens sports career book used at prestigious schools around the country

When Howard Gauthier penned “Getting Hired in College Sports” in 2009, he had no idea it would become a must-read in sports management classes at colleges and universities around the country.

“I never thought in a million years that I’d be selling books to Harvard, Stanford, Florida State, Nebraska or University of Oklahoma,” said Gauthier, an associate professor in Idaho State University’s sports science and physical education department. He’s taught at ISU-Meridian the past eight years.

The 264-page book consists of a five-step process to assist students, sports managers, coaches and administrators to land their dream jobs. Gauthier shares stories and case studies, illustrating strategic methods to conduct a successful job search—from developing a personal brand to creating an effective resume, preparing for interview questions and the proper way to follow up after an interview.  

“I’ve even sold to people who need help with career development outside of the sports world.  It’s the same process, just focused on a different industry,” said Gauthier, who spent five years researching the book.

Last semester, University of Nebraska used “Getting Hired in College Sports” in sports management classes, and Western Kentucky University is using the book this spring.  The book is on library shelves at Stanford University, UCLA, the NCAA, University of Massachusetts, Idaho State University and a host of smaller colleges.

But the icing on the cake came a few weeks ago when Harvard University athletics placed an order. “I just smiled and thought ‘this is pretty cool.’  Harvard should have a copy. I believe it’s the best career development book in sports,” Gauthier said.

He’s not the only one. A check of Amazon.com shows “Getting Hired in College Sports” has a five-star rating.

Connecting the dots

What sets it apart from other career development books is the depth of research, much of it drawn from Gauthier’s 25-year career in athletic administration and coaching at the collegiate level.  Accompanying the book is a 66- page workbook, a website, and a weekly blog and newsletter.

“Athletics is a tough and competitive industry.  I wanted to be able to help people,” said Gauthier, a former athletic director at ISU, California State University and Southwest Minnesota State University.

A quick tip from Gauthier?  Connect the dots.  In other words, play to your strengths, keep an ear to the ground for the good jobs and build strong relationships within an industry. “People like to hire people they know or who come highly recommended from people they trust,” said Gauthier, who holds a Ph.D. in education from Southern Illinois University.

“Getting Hired in College Sports,” published by Sports Leadership Publishing Company,” is available online at www.sportsleadershippublishing.com  and Amazon.com.