抄録
This study aimed to identify the strengths and weaknesses of former athletes working in private companies in Japan. It focused on how their athletic experiences are connected to their work strengths and weaknesses and how the former athletes utilize them as employees. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 14 athletes and nine supervisors and colleagues, and the data was analyzed using thematic analysis. As a result, four main themes were obtained: “interpersonal relationships”, “mental toughness and stamina”, “executive ability” and “basic business skills”. One of the main themes “executive ability” which is understood to encompass the capacity to undertake tasks, establish objectives, and accomplish goals and plans was frequently cited by former athletes. Conversely, ten former athletes experienced deficiencies in the theme “basic business skills”, which include etiquette and proficiency in digital technologies. These weaknesses were largely absent from their athletic training and development, yet they were able to acquire these through subsequent work experience. The study also suggested that supervisors and colleagues valued some skills that the former athlete didn’t recognize as strengths and document creation may remain a weakness even with years of experience. The findings of this study would offer insights not only to support athletes in their future endeavors but also to inform the companies that will employ them.
