Another thing you need to realize is that most scouts are regional. Generally, only upper management does the majority - and the "far" - traveling (and that is usually to sign someone).
Most of the times, unless you have an Ovechkin or Malkin who generates a lot of hype and media coverage in Europe, chances are a lot of the management probably has not even see a player in action, in person before they call his name at the podium. It goes back to....
WheatiesHockey said:
What is actually done with your reports, assessments and evaluations is really up to team management and that is where your influence will start or stop.
Here are some thoughts to kick around....
Everyone's got an idea and opinion. How are you going to standout on your own? What are you going to tell someone they don't already know? The top talent is easy to spot...its the kids that appear to be less seasoned that you need to be able to find. The ones that for some reason have the tools but are missing the toolbox. You have to be able to identify those players and be able to help them along -or- believe over time that they will have what it takes. You also have to be able to convince your bosses that for "this" reason or "that" reason, player x is going to blossom into one heck of a player. If its not that obvious, you need to be ready to explain why this guy is going to fit into the program. You need to explain (with conviction) the net benefit will he bring down the road.
Also take into consideration that it goes a lot farther then what you see on the ice. Homework is homework and there are no shortcuts. Only the scouts that take the time and show the right interest find the right ones. What kind of basic grasps do you have on Sociology, Psychology, and communication (specifically verbal and non-verbal communication)? It honestly goes a lot deeper than pointing and saying, "yeah he's got it." The more prepared you are, the more effective you'll be at spotting them.
Remember, the higher the stakes...the more cutthroat it is. It’s a business. Nothing personal…just business. Ultimately, we're talking about the return performance on an initial investment. Owners, GM and coaches can't afford to be stuck in playing the high risk, high reward carousel when it comes to drafting and developing players. You're going to need to be able to sneak a card in there every once in a while. Not everyone can be a top-flight player but that doesn't mean there isn't a place or a role those "right" guys can't fill down the road.
I'm not the expert by any means... but I've been paying attention during the conversations, interviews, meetings and travel for HF over the last 3 or so years.
-Side note-
If you want to travel Europe...there's always college and the exchange program.