Golf has become known as a businessman’s sport and the stats are available to prove it. According to a report by Forbes, 90% of CEOs from Fortune 500 companies are golf players. It’s no wonder that the sport has always been associated with status, business and affluence. In fact, even U.S. President Donald Trump is an avid golfer. This suggests that golf is one leisure activity and sport that a goal-driven entrepreneur should seriously look into starting.
For one, golf is an activity that busy entrepreneurs can easily fit into their schedules without any guilt. This is because if done the right way, spending hours on a golf course can be as valuable as presenting an important business proposal to a client. Still, just like a regular golf game, you need smooth and calculated moves to excel in it. To score winning points on the golf course and your business venture, you may want to keep the following tips in mind.
The quality of the golf course matters.
To enjoy golf and close a business deal, you need to be a bit choosy on the course where you will play the game. You do not want a very tough course that will leave your opponent so frustrated nor do you want a very easy course that can lead to a boring game. Instead you want a golf course that will give just the right amount of fun and challenge. Likewise, the course should be well-maintained and in good condition. After a satisfying golf game you and your partner will likely be in a good mood to discuss business matters. You’ll want to check out the amenities, too, because socializing will be a bit difficult if the golf course does not have a clubhouse, lounge or restaurant to relax in afterwards
Display etiquette and play fairly.
Businesses become established by earning their client’s trust. If you come on a golf course representing your business, you have to be extra careful about your ethics and behavior. Your attitude on the course and how you play the game can be a deal breaker. To earn the trust and respect of future business partners, you have to show proper ethics and play fairly. Among other things, this means being punctual so you don’t keep partners waiting, not resorting to cheating even when the game gets too competitive and keeping your cool even when you are . Being polite and patient matters a lot, even on a course.
Play primarily for the game — not the business.
Proper timing always makes a big difference in any goal we set. In playing golf for business, you have to know the best time to introduce a proposal or idea to a client. You cannot do it as soon as you make your first shot. According to a survey done by Starwood Hotels, 50% of businessmen who golf prefer to talk about business when they are already playing the 19th hole. Also, when you finally start talking about business, be careful to not overdo it. Your prospective clients are on the golf course to unwind, so make your business spiel brief and simple. You want to present an idea that will spark enough interest for a client to request a follow up meeting for further discussion.
Do not forget your business cards.
The golf course is an ideal place for networking. Don’t waste the chance to meet more potential business partners! Since many people on a golf resort probably have limited time to spare, your networking efforts will be much easier if you come ready with business cards. These set of cards can give you credibility as you introduce your business. You also encourage future clients to contact you again for further meetings, inquiries or discussions.
Golf is an exciting activity for businessmen because it offers an opportunity to hit two birds with one stone. You can do it best if you know what to expect on the golf course where you plan to stay. Pinnacle Golf Vacations will be happy to let you know the ins and outs of the top-rated golf resorts in the Phoenix-Scottsdale area. Their team is just a click away, so contact us today!
