Business Golf Etiquette - To a Tee

Building and maintaining solid business relationships isand meal reservations.
the key to success, but how can you legitimatelyConfirm the tee-off time.
escape the tense office environment and spendSend confirmation to guest with directions and
dedicated time getting to know a customer, client orcontact information for the course.
boss on a personal level?Business Golf, once theBe the cart driver.
domain of the executive elite is now accessible forFocus on your guest, not on improving your game.
anyone wishing to create and strengthen businessPlay the same tee as your guest.
relationships in a relaxed atmosphere. In fact,Invite your guest to play first at the first hole.
according to a 2002 COMPAS Leader Poll, "businessBehave yourselfThe links is not the place for you to
leaders use golf as an important tool in doing businessget in touch with your inner child. No tantrums,
and say that it is extremely remunerative; for eachthrowing of clubs, foot stamping, swearing, whining,
dollar they spend on golf they earn over $1500 inmaking excuses or indulging in other demonstrations
business revenue as a result. Further, only restaurantsof poor sportsmanship. Conversely, when you are
surpass the golf course as an effective place toplaying well, be gracious. Don't interpret the relaxed
conduct business outside of the office."The strongenvironment as an opportunity to behave in a
demand for golf has resulted in several new coursesmanner unsuitable for the office, such as making
being opened every year thereby reducingjokes, gestures or remarks that may be considered
membership costs. Corporate and charityby others as offensive.Business or birdieThere is a
tournaments also represent a tremendoustime and place for everything. Spend the day building
networking opportunity where organizational hierarchyrapport and developing relationships. Only talk
may be temporarily eliminated and a common groundbusiness if your guest brings it up first. Otherwise,
created for building rapport.An important benefit ofsave it for the 19th hole.You Got GameDon't
golf is that it provides a unique window into thecompromise your credibility by playing badly unless, of
personality, values and conduct of others. This couldcourse, you are an Oscar winning actor. Don't gloat
prove to be very useful in future business dealings aswhen you are playing well, instead, turn it into a
one's behavior on the course is a reflection of theircompliment, "You must be bringing me luck, this is my
business character and ethics. For example, a golfingbest game this year!" Sincerely compliment specific
partner who cheats on every hole might be someoneaspects of your partner's game. Never coach or give
to be careful with when making deals. It must beunsolicited advice. If you are a beginner, warn your
realized, however that this window is made of twopartner about your skill level and make sure they are
way glass. Take advantage of this opportunity too.k. with it.Be an Etiquette Eagle
project a positive image of yourself by
demonstrating proper Business Golf Etiquette.FollowNo cell phones / pagers/ PDA's.
these Business Golf Etiquette Tips to a tee and notAlways be ready for the next shot - don't make
only will you and your partner enjoy the day, you willothers wait unnecessarily.
also stand out as being polished, professional andNever brag or complain about the cost of
trustworthy.Scout's MottoBe prepared. Arrive earlymembership or green fees.
to get organized and to practice. Plan ahead andTake care of the course, remove your tees, replace
identify the outcomes you want from the day.kicked-up turf and rake after a bunker shot.
These goals are just as important as any otherDon't walk into or cast shadows over someone's
business meeting. Prepare sound bites for yourputting line.
company or yourself that you can draw on ifMaintain a safe golf cart speed.
needed.Don't be green about the greensNever attendGet out of the cart whenever your opponent does.
a golf event for business purposes if you don't firstDress appropriately. If in doubt, call the club.
make the effort to learn the basic game and theNo cheating or creative scorekeeping.
lingo. You'll only embarrass and alienate yourself andDon't distract other golfers by loud talking, laughing,
your company. Take lessons or attend a clinic.Whenand crinkling food wrappers.
Hosting...Don't let your manners be your handicap. Ace this
opportunity to make a good impression and create
Inquire about any time constraints before choosing ashared memories that will enhance your business
venue. Proximity may be more important thanrelationships and increase your bottom line.Aviva Shiff
beauty of a course.is the co-founder of Spark Training and Coaching
When choosing foursomes, carefully consider the skillAssociates. Spark Training and Coaching Associates
levels, compatibility and networking opportunities forhelps individuals amplify their personal impact,
the players.influence and effectiveness through their corporate
Pay for your guests ahead of time. Make suretraining workshops and coaching programs.
everything is arranged for your guest such as lockers