How to Get on Staff With a Bowling Company

For many bowlers, getting on staff with a bowling company is the ultimate goal. Becoming an official staff member can mean a few different things. It can mean that you are a brand ambassador for a company and you have to pay for products/bowling balls (this is what most Staff Contracts are)OR getting paid to represent a brand, get free gear, free entry into tournaments, and exposure in the bowling world (this is what most PBA National Tour players have). But how do you go about actually getting on staff with a bowling company? 

Research Companies and Their Programs 
The first step in getting on staff with a bowling company is researching the companies and their programs. You want to find out which companies are currently offering staff positions, what kind of positions they’re looking for (e.g., recreational bowlers, tournament players), and what the requirements for each position are. Make sure that you meet all of the requirements before applying! Understand some companies may take staff applications differently than others so be sure to do your research on how they would like you to apply.

REMEMBER: You should not apply to a company with the ONLY goal being to get a free product. You should apply to a company that you truly believe in and a company whose products you use and can promote.

Reach Out to Companies 
Once you’ve done your research and identified which companies might be a good fit for you, it’s time to reach out! Send emails or direct messages to the companies introducing yourself and expressing your interest in joining their team. Be sure to include any relevant information such as tournament wins, awards, or anything else that might help you stand out from other applicants. Be sure to include some footage of you bowling as well. You should also include contact information so that they can easily reach out if they have any questions or need additional information from you.It is good to reach out to bowling companies, but remember to have patience when getting in touch. They could be looking at hundreds of applications at any given point so double messaging/emailing them will only slow down or even end the staff application process for you. 

Develop Your Brand 
In addition to reaching out to companies directly, it’s important that you also start building your brand as a bowler. This means creating social media accounts like Instagram or Twitter where you can post about your successes in tournaments, feature bowling balls in videos, share photos of your gear (make sure it’s from the brands you want to work with), and provide helpful tips for other bowlers who may be interested in following your journey. The more followers and engagement you have on these platforms, the better chance you have of being noticed by potential sponsors!

REMEMBER: Most bowling ball companies are trying to sell equipment. If you do not have the ability to market their equipment on social media in a positive light you may not be chosen.  

Getting hired by a bowling company isn't easy—but it's definitely possible if you put in the work! Start by researching different companies and their programs; then reach out directly with an introduction email or DM; finally develop your brand through social media accounts like Instagram or Twitter. With dedication and hard work, there's no limit to how far your career as a bowler can take you!