Club Secrets: How Learning to Golf Improved My Business Game.
- Posted By:
- Sara
- Date:
- August 4th, 2011 /// Industry Insight, Keathley Culture
When I got invited to golf school in Palm Springs two years ago, I wasn’t expecting to like it so much. I thought it was an old-man-in-funny-pants sport. Of course, I was dying to wear the funny pants, but initially only accepted to escape Ohio’s weather for a week. I decided right away that I liked A) to drive golf carts and B) having a cocktail in the sun during business hours. In the end, I uncovered an intriguing game, atmosphere and society that are ultimately making me a better Account Executive.
I quickly learned that golf is a natural networker. As a 30-year-old woman, it felt a little awkward stepping into this men’s club, but I realized that by becoming passionate about golf, I instantly had something in common with these people. It’s a very comfortable and natural way to develop relationships with clients and prospects. You’ve probably heard the statistic that you can find 90% of key business decision makers on the golf course.
I also learned to use this connection off the golf course. Take this example for instance. I was trying to gain some common ground with a new client who had two months until retirement and no interest in conversing with me. I asked him about his job, grandkids, travel plans, even favorite colors, and he didn’t look up from the table. Then I asked him if he golfed, and shared a few stories with him. His whole attitude changed.
I’ve also observed that, as a female golfer, it is easy to bond with other female golfers. Because there are so many less women on the golf course, we seem to embrace each other and instantly have a conversation-starter. This comes in handy in meeting perspective female clients or entertaining existing ones. I’ve created long-term relationships with clients, colleagues and suppliers just by learning how to play golf. It even got me invited to Masters last year.
It’s also been said that by playing a round of golf, you can really get to see who that person is. Whether they are a good winner or loser, how he or she handles a challenge, if they cheat, how competitive they are, if they can laugh at themselves and handle pressure. One round of golf could be a great indicator up front whether the partnership is a good match or not.
So, ladies, get yourselves some sweet golf shoes (and maybe some pink balls), and get on the green. My only suggestion: Before you step on the course with a client, take a lesson or two and learn the etiquette.
Here’s a good place to start: The 8 Rules of Business Golf
