How to get Sponsored in RC Racing - Resumes 101
The #1 question asked to pro drivers is "How do I get sponsored?"
The first step once you have years of experience and are ready to respresent a brand is to write a good racing resume. Below is an article about how to do this orginally posted by Underground RC. Use this as an example when writing yours.
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How to Write a Race Resume for Sponsorship
With those new opportunities, and an advertising budget set aside by most companies to gain publicity, arises more chances to secure a spot as a representative who will be compensated for his work with products, or discounts on products. Being a sponsored driver is just like being an independent contractor.
The most common level of sponsorship is the ability to purchase equipment at a percentage discount of retail price. Because sponsored drivers are often expected to maintain their equipment regularly and attend larger events within their region, a sponsored driver rarely saves money. Instead, basic sponsorship helps to offset the cost of equipment and travel expenses. This is important to understand before you ever apply for sponsorship.
When you have grasped the concept of racing at the local level and have started to achieve success at a regional and state level, you might be ready to start applying to small companies, just to get your foot in the door. To appeal to a company, any company, regarding representing its likeness and products, you have to be able to outline what you can offer as a sponsored driver. The bigger the company, likely the bigger expectations they have for any prospects applying for a position on their racing team.
For example, a multiple-time world champion car manufacturer probably isn't the best place to start looking for a deal. Big companies generally want big results, AND a solid on- and off-track personality.
Creating a resume is a simple and professional method to supply this information to businesses at which you wish to apply. No fancy PowerPoint presentation needed, just a simple, basic listing of your qualifications (a picture or two of you with your cars and trophies won't hurt, but it's not necessary).
Being a sponsored driver is not only about winning races; yes, being competitive at the levels you intend to race at is definitely a plus, but your character on and off the track, and on internet message forums, will define your value to any possible sponsors. Having respected resources that can vouch for your worth as a sponsored driver is one of the most important tools of applying for sponsorship.
A couple ground rules before considering applying for sponsorship:
Expect to get as much as you can provide for your prospective sponsor. The company doesn't owe you anything.
Don't portray yourself as burnt out on the hobby and looking to get sponsored to revive your interest in racing.
A manufacturer who makes products in direct competition with what you currently use will not automatically sponsor you just so you will run their equipment. Many companies prefer to sponsor racers who have supported their products as a customer.
And lastly, don't burn bridges. Sending out your resume for the first time may not necessarily yield any sponsorship for the upcoming season, but will introduce your name to those who constantly scout for new talent. Applying for sponsorship is just as much about networking with different companies as it is about racing.
Good luck!
This is an example form for a race resume:
Introduction
Introduce yourself, and outline your goals within the hobby and for sending your resume to prospective sponsors. Include big races you plan to attend, your main focus for your involvement within R/C racing (hint: it should have something to do with having fun), and even the reason why you started racing in the first place. As with this entire resume, MAKE SURE YOU USE CORRECT SPELLING AND GRAMMAR. Nothing says "this means nothing to me" like not taking the time to proof-read your resume.
Personal Information
Name: First and last name
Birthdate: X/X/XX
Residence: XXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXX
Home Phone: (XXX) XXX-XXXX
E-mail address: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
ROAR Region XX, ROAR # XXXXXXX
Local tracks:
"Bullet" all of the local tracks in your area
Years racing: X
Current Sponsors: List any current sponsors you have and the amount of support you receive.
Example: Team Losi (100%), Trinity (100%), Novak Electronics (100%) .
Equipment: List equipment you use. Your car, motor/engine, electronics, fuel/batteries (for electric) and tires only.
Example: Team Losi 8IGHT, Trinity Platinum Edition .21 engine, Airtronics M8 with Novak synthesized equipment, Trinity Platinum 30% fuel and Team Losi tires..
Why I would make a good addition to your team
This is where you build yourself up. Talk about your strengths as a racer and as a company representative. It's always a good idea to be able to demonstrate progress and improvement. The more you have to offer, the more you can except to get in return.
Racing Highlights
Year (20XX)
- Name of the event (City, State)
- starting position, finishing position (Racing class)
Non-Racing Background
Outline any other hobbies outside of R/C. Unless your aspirations are to be a professional racer, companies usually look for well-rounded individuals who make time for other activities. List any other qualifications you may have, such as technical abilities, and any training (formal or otherwise) you may have received in a manner that would help you in your position as a team driver.
References
Include references within the R/C industry, at least 3 or 4 but no more than 5 or 6. Local sponsored racers and track/hobby shop owners are the best references.
First and last name - Contact information (phone numbers are more professional than e-mail addresses)
Published by UndergroundRC.com, April, 2007
