Dear Matt: I'm seeking a career working in the sports industry. What's the key to success?

Matt says: For many people, working in the sports industry is a dream job — but it's still a business. When teams and organizations are looking for employees, they are looking for specific skills and experiences for those roles rather than simply finding a former athlete to fill the position, says Brian Haukoos, President of Twin Cities-based Virtus Athletes (virtusathletes.com), a career coaching, consulting and recruiting firm designed specifically for college, professional and Olympic athletes.

Those looking to learn more about sports jobs can do so at the 2014 Sports Internship and Career Fair Tuesday, Sept. 23 from 12 p.m.-3 p.m. at Target Field (1-800-33-Twins; registration required by Sept. 20). The event offers a chance to learn about a variety of internship and employment opportunities with many teams and sports-related organizations throughout the Upper Midwest.

Many people view the sports industry based on what they see on TV or by following the NFL, MLB, NBA and NHL and don't realize all of the behind-the-scenes work that goes into hosting a large event or running a business of that size. In addition, not every job within the industry of sports involves working for a professional organization or team, or will get you up close and personal to the big game.

"Unfortunately," says Haukoos, "you are not likely to become good friends with Adrian Peterson, Joe Mauer or Zach Parise simply by working for the team."

Organizations in the sports industry hire professionals with all backgrounds — sales, technology, marketing, promotions, HR, finance, communications, administrative, legal and more. All the same areas that you would see at any other corporation are represented in the industry of sports.

"Many people that start in the industry don't have a sports or athletic background," says Haukoos. "If you are hard working, willing to learn, ambitious and can add value to the organization, you are more likely to get hired than someone that simply has some type of experience in sports."

Careers in the sports industry are highly sought after and very competitive. Due to the nature of the business, the hours may be irregular and require a lot of flexibility in your schedule. Networking is key — the more inroads you can make with people already in the industry, the easier it will be to learn about opportunities and get a chance to interview.

"Understand that working in the sports industry may be appealing, but do your homework and understand what the opportunities are and what is expected out of someone in the various roles within the organization," says Haukoos.

Sports are entertainment, but the business of sports is just that — all business.

Contact Matt at jobslink@startribune.com.