We invite you to take part in an important online survey conducted by the IN-FORMS Project (an Erasmus+ initiative) in partnership with the European Observatoire of Sport and Employment (EOSE). This survey is crucial for understanding the recruitment and retention challenges faced by the outdoor and sports sector, particularly concerning paid staff, and for identifying the obstacles to professionalizing our sector.
Employment in the outdoor sector can take many forms, ranging from roles in sports coaching and instruction (covering both introductory and advanced levels) to strategic positions focused on visitor management, coordination, and various other aspects related to outdoor activities.
Unlike a significant part of the sport sector, that have clear hierarchical structures, the outdoor sector is organized organically, not like a pyramid which is an obstacle to spread that kind of surveys across the continent. However, It’s crucial that we capture the reality to better understand the employment landscape and to support those who are already working in or entering the field.
Why Should You Participate?
1. Highlighting Employment in the Outdoor Sector: This survey provides an opportunity to gather vital data about the nature of employment in the outdoor industry. It will help illustrate the current state of the workforce, including the diversity of roles and the unique challenges we face in securing and retaining skilled professionals.
2. Understanding the Barriers to Professionalization: By sharing your experience and insights, you will help identify the obstacles that prevent further development of professional career paths within the outdoor sector. These findings will be used to propose practical solutions and strategies to improve recruitment and retention.
3. Making Your Voice Heard: Your input is essential in shaping the future of our sector. The data we collect through this survey will be shared with policymakers and key stakeholders to ensure the outdoor industry receives the recognition and support it needs.
How Can You Help?
- Complete the Survey: If you haven’t already, we strongly encourage you to take 10-20 minutes to complete the survey. It’s available in 19 languages and tailored to different types of sport and outdoor organisations.
- Share and Promote: Please forward the survey to your network and encourage others in the outdoor sector to participate. The more responses we gather, the more comprehensive the data will be, making it easier to advocate for necessary changes.
- Cascade Through Your Own Networks: Help amplify the survey within your local and professional networks to ensure we get as many responses as possible across Europe.
Deadline and Details:
The survey will remain open until January 31 (or February 3), so please make sure to submit your responses before then. Every response counts, and already 1,600 have responded across the sports sector.
Thank you in advance for your time and support. Together, we can make a significant impact on the future of the outdoor and sports employment sector!