Posts: 9141
-
Karma: 12,885
Technically yes, it is a repost, but you probably wont find another thread on it....
First, you need to understand that sponsors AREN'T necessarily looking for the best skier, while it helps, and you do have to at least be able to hold your own, it's not the biggest thing. What companies are looking for is someone who will sell their product, whether it be skis, bindings, apparel, or even just whatever is in their shop. So going to a sponsor and telling them what a great skier you are, won't do anything for you, cause trust me they've seen better than you (no offense, just saying, there are some crazy good skiers out there and they don't have sponsors for one reason or another). Now, what you need to do first is compile a resume (like a normal resume, include education, work experience, and basic info, but also include contest wins, skiing goals (not a list of tricks, no where on this resume should be any mention of any tricks), any film opportunities you have, other sponsorships you have, stuff like that. Then, compile a promo edit, this should be about you and this is where you show off your skills (but remember, its not the biggest part, but it is the part that gets the attention), keep it short, reps see hundreds of these a season, but also keep it memorable (again, reps see tons of these). Then, find some reps, if you have an in with a shop near you they'll have a list, if you can get your hands on that, you're pretty golden, then send the reps your edit, resume, AND (here's the most important part) what YOU can do for that company (i.e. why should they choose you over someone else, can you market their equipment well? whatever it is, this is what will make or break your sponsorship). IF you don't have an in with a shop, get one, also, shop sponsorships are the easiest to get, go there and do the above, but in person, be confident and professional (this is kinda like a job interview - same goes for your rep email, be professional, not "hey, i waz hoping 2 get some free skiz plz" - if you can give them a reason to hook you up, they will, whether it's a discount, some free swag, or even a program where they give you skis, take it, cause that's your in with the shop, and remember the shop has the golden rep list that you want. After you've been riding with them for a bit (about a season, maybe less depending on how much they like you...so go there often, show your support to them as much as possible, whatever it takes, this will help you so much in the long run).
Remember, a sponsorship is a job (only you get paid in gear), so treat it like one from the beginning. Good luck.
