Finding Sponsors
If you’ve found yourself getting more serious about
riding and racing, putting some serious money down for equipment, and have a few wins under your belt, you might be ready
to take your game to the next level. Have you been wondering about getting sponsors? If you answered "yes", then guess what?
You’re not alone. Read on for some insight to this quest…
Most riders think that doing well on the track and bringing
home a few coveted trophies would be enough to be noticed by a sponsor scout or two. Nope. It’s not that easy. But there
are some things that you can proactively do that might tilt the scales in your favor.
Finding a Sponsor is like Finding
a Job
Just like when you were casting about for your day job
(you know, the one that pays for your toys), the first step is to create an impressive resume. This signals to the sponsors
that you are serious and would be as asset to their product.
What do they want to see? Not only what you have done in
the past, but also what you plan to accomplish in the near future. They want to see a plan of attack. What’s special
in your background? Were you mentored by someone of note? Which important races have you won? Point out a few things that
show you to be multi-faceted and responsible. Remember, if you wear their logo, you become their public face. Finally, you
need to convey the message (without coming out and saying so) that you are looking for a mutually beneficial relationship
and not that you’re just in it for the free stuff.
Do Your Legwork
Again, this is just like searching for a job. You may be
an amateur rider bet there’s nothing amateur about your approach. Talk to the shops where you buy parts or gear. You’ve
already got a good working relationship with them. This is just another way to network. Ask them about any sponsors that are
looking for riders. Ask them if you can use them for a reference.
Put any leads you get on a list. Next, brainstorm to think
of any companies you would like to approach. Add them to the list. When you’ve got enough to work with, print out resumes
and cover letters and send them to the sponsor companies. Follow up correspondence may be done via email but start out with
snail mail.
Finally, get your resume online. Sites such as MXSponsors.com
are the natural places to target. Is there a small local newspaper where you live? Contact them and ask the sports reporter
if he or she would be willing to interview you. You would be surprised – these local rags will jump at the opportunity.
A Picture is worth a Thousand
Words
Promote, promote, promote. Take a tip from models and actors.
Self-promotion is invaluable. What you have over them is that MX is an action sport. Get some riveting shots or videos that
show you at your best. This will help you stand out from the crowd. Showcase your style and technique. Make them say, "Look
at this guy!" Send the photos as press releases. The videos? Put them on a disc for distribution and post them on Youtube.
Getting the word out is what does the trick. The squeaky
wheel gets the grease.
