The concept of name, image, and likeness has many benefits for both athletes and businesses. One benefit for athletes is that NIL provides them with a host of networking opportunities as a college student, which can prepare them for the workforce upon graduation. NIL also allows college athletes to enhance their business skills through their college years, as they navigate from deal-to-deal. 

NIL opportunities aren't just about making a quick buck–these tips highlight some benefits from networking through NIL. 

Brand Building

Out of college, most students may have to juggle the difficult task of navigating a new job while also enhancing their personal skills and building their own brand. College athletes, though, can build their own brands while in school, most likely, from pursuing NIL deals while in college. This skill can easily transfer to the workforce and continue to be improved upon. 

Related: NIL Opportunities for Athletes with Smaller Platforms

Less Financial Stress  

Athletes who use their NIL earnings wisely will be better prepared for a career and the workforce after graduating from college. By saving or investing these earnings, this money will be set aside for use at some point in the future. In all, by reserving NIL money, the athlete will have less financial stress in the short- and long-term. 

Business Connections 

Through NIL deals, college athletes can make connections with both local and national (and even international businesses. Some of these connections can even lead to a job post-graduation if the athlete and business share common interests.

Related: 6 Most Interesting NIL Deals

Soft Skills

Through NIL, college athletes can enhance soft skills that will prepare them for the workforce. By working through NIL deals, an athlete is constantly, either knowingly or unknowingly, working on their communication, self-management, and time-management skills, among other so-called “soft skills.” These skills are essential for the workforce and NIL can help a student-athlete better develop them. 

It goes without saying that  during their college years, athletes can benefit from earning cash through a NIL deal. But the bigger benefits may come through business and networking. Whether it may be a future potential opportunity or simply expanding one's own network of professionals, NIL has the opportunity to open college athletes up to a range of possibilities in the workforce. 

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* Originally published on August 4, 2022, by Caleb Myers