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What does it take to break into the world of sport punditry?

Where would we be without our trusty pundits in the studio to take us through the highs and lows of the game?

If you've got the gift of the gab and know the ins and outs of the offside rule, a career in sports broadcasting might be right up your street. In an exclusive interview for 大象传媒 Bitesize, we caught up with Alex Scott and her fellow pundits at the 2019 World Cup in France to get their top tips for breaking into the industry.

Alex Scott, Jo Currie, Gemma Fay and Sue Smith give their top tips on getting into sport broadcasting.

Alex Scott in a chair

Top tips for making it as a pundit

  • Be yourself. It's you and your personality that will really come through when you commentate

  • Let your passion for the sport show through

  • Be prepared and know your stuff

  • Network and build good relationships with people in the field

  • Stay focused on your goal

  • Take yourself outside your comfort zone

  • Learn the skill of conversation 鈥 be able to listen, analyse information, take on feedback and apply it going forward

  • Don't give up! There will be ups and downs but you're doing something you love, so stick with it!

Alex Scott in a chair
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Pundits can also be known as sports commentators. Sports commentators describe what's happening at sporting events and offer their opinions to listeners and viewers.

What to expect if you want to be a sports commentator

  • Sports commentator average salary: 拢13,000 to 拢80,000 per year
  • Sports commentator typical working hours: 39 to 41 hours per week

What qualifications do you need to be a sports commentator?

You could get into this role via a a university course, an apprenticeship, working towards this role, volunteering or applying directly.

Sources: LMI for All, National Careers Service

This information is a guide and is constantly changing. Please check the for the latest information and all the qualifications needed.

For careers advice in all parts of the UK visit: , , and .

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Tips and advice
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