Everyone wants a foot in the door. The ones who stay in the room are the ones who follow through.

Follow-through is one of the simplest habits in professional life, yet it is one of the rarest. People start strong, make connections, and then disappear. The ones who follow up, follow through, and keep promises are the ones who build lasting careers.

Why It Matters

Sports runs on relationships and reputation. When you consistently do what you say you will do, people remember. That reliability earns trust faster than any degree or title ever could.

Simple Ways to Stand Out

• Reply to messages promptly, even if it is a short “Thank you for your time.”
• Send materials when you promise to send them.
• If someone gives you advice, let them know how you used it.

These small actions show professionalism, gratitude, and accountability.

The Ripple Effect

When I refer someone for a role, I am trusting my name alongside theirs. That trust comes from knowing they will follow through. Build that same reputation with the people in your network.

So ask yourself: how many doors could open if you simply kept every commitment you made this month?

— Dr. Lynn Lashbrook President, Sports Management Worldwide