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1. That golf is one of the BEST networking tools for building client relationships in business.
2. That it is OK to take the time to schedule and play a round of golf with a preferred client or a new prospect. Where else can you find that kind of quality time without office interruption?
3. That it is important to let your co-workers, clients and prospects know that you play golf or can discuss the game of golf with some basic knowledge.
4. That you don’t have to be good to successfully use golf to build your business.
5. That men are also very capable of playing slow…they just don’t get pigeon-holed as ‘slow players’ like women do.
6. That getting to know your client’s/prospect’s golf handicap and interest level in the game is important homework to help you take full advantage of the sport in your business networking.
7. That if women ever realize just how effective the game of golf is in the success of their careers men may be in bring trouble. Their ‘monopoly’ will come crashing down and that promotion may well go to the woman that deserves it.
Sound off with your opinion. Your comments are always welcome at www.sherrytabb.com.
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Tags: "business on the golf course", Business relationships with golf, golf, playing golf, Slow play in golf, women networking with golf
First, let me say, I’m male, yet in spite of that, please keep reading.
My comments are actually responses to all of the networking commentaries on the site. Sadly, in my opinion, women were tossed bones in business a number of years ago (late 80′s and beyond) and were so anxious to grab them, too many never saw the forest for the trees. My point can be illustrated in the one field now absolutely dominated by females in business – Human Resources. Who was the last VP of HR you know who was promoted to COO, then President, and on. No one? Me neither. If I was sure of this, I’d say men at the top did an excellent job of baiting women to be in this high end position. I’m only speculating. However it does appear to epitomize the glass ceiling of higher and more visibility with no further growth inside the organization.
Golf can help and even change career tremendously. It is the place where the loose talk is talked and if you can’t or won’t join them, you’re not part of the “insiders” network – and likely never will be. And lessons are just a start. In those you’re taught holding a club, swing, tempo, and other mechanics. Are you ready to go golfing? Not in my mind. Do you know ow to tend the pin? Where carts can and cannot go? How to fix a ball mark? A study ny the National Golf Association in 2007 showed that well over 60% of women who had eperiencein golf stayed away because of embarrassment or feelings of intimidation regarding etiquette. That can be resolved if we work together.
One irony, yet the truth, is too many women or new golfers have the perception that those who golf often and talk golf are very good golfers. The fact is the vast majority aren’t good at all. And more important, no one cares if you’re good, as long as you know the proper course behavior, practice it and all keep it moving.
My mother passed away too young. She loved golf and was absolutely horrible. She never kept score. She made her own head covers to match her 2 outfits. She loved the beauty of golf courses and the camaraderie of playing with friends. And a number of her friends were very good. Yet, she laughed at herself and her shortcomings. Everyone knew Donna’s golf philosphy – “Dress cute and keep it moving.” She’d hit a couple. If bad, she’d pick up her ball and toss it on the green. Then try a couple of putts. She’d sink it or pick it up and it was on to the next hole. Her highlight of the day was having the best chicken salad for lunch.
When you begin a round, tell your partners you’re newer to the game, but that you’ll play Ready Golf and keep an eye on shots to help others find there’s. If it means picking up on the fairway occassionally to keep the pace going, you’re happy to do it. Score matters little. Character and other knowledge matter more. Become that R.A.R.E. golfer – Respect the game, course and partners. Play with a positive Attitude. Ready Golf keeps everyone happy and always be Ethical. It shows who you are. And you’ll learn a on about the others yo play with.
Play it forward, ladies. We need you out there!
Rick
Rick,
Thanks for your astute viewpoint. By the way men (especially enlightened ones like yourself) are most welcome here. Your insight is on point and well said. There’s enough golf to go around for everybody at any age and any skill level. Come join the fun!
Sherry
A great post and great comment. I loved Duffy’s description of the Joy his Mom got from golf.
golfgirl’s last blog post..Golf Girl’s Valentine Tips – On Cocktail Match
Hi Sherry and Patricia -
The compliments from both of you made my day! (blush) Thank you!
A huge question remains for all of us. We’re all on the same page about increasing female golf participation. Sherry and I have been in touch and will share some ideas. However, my feeling is that as powerful as the internet may be, newcomers to the game need more outreach type guidance. It’s an enormous undertaking because we’re potentially looking at a global market. One step at a time however.
Right now, many of us are doing our own “thing”. I’d like to ask that everyone on this site pass ideas forward to another “like” site (i.e. women’s golf related). Let’s do more together. When numerous bright, creative and focused minds work together, the synergy can be incredibly powerful. As a man, I know that men like to see the Sherry’s and Patricia’s (and Kat’s) on the golf course. And that’s enough – to “view” you, if you get my drift. Like my mom – dressed cute and walking fast. Yet too many and the boy’s club gets insecure.
Our goal might be to see a closer to a 50/50 ratio on any course vs. the 90/10 you see today. We’ve all got a variety of tools, ideas, contacts and venues. We can make this happen.
Please seriously think about your contacts and truly dedicating your efforts to spreading the word that the ladies are hitting the links. All most need is more guidance and confidence.
On Tuesday we witnessed something very few believed would ever happen in our country with the inauguration of President Obama. When our parents told us we could be anything we wanted to be – that was proven Tuesday.
What have we got to lose by sharing more than just ideas? I’m in this for the long haul and believe that it will happen for women and other minorities. As a matter of fact, I’m meeting Michael Jordan for lunch with a new “friend” in early February here in Chicago – or wherever he wants to eat. It is absolute proof of the 6 Degrees of Separation. AND, both mentioned Oprah as another step. Further proof. (I’m afraid to go on Oprah because as a single dad, I may not be able to stop the deluge of interested viewers!)
I’ll keep you updated.
United We Stand!
Rick
Rick,
You are spot-on about interconnecting with other resources geared towards growing the number of women playing golf. It will take that and much more to show any sort of equality of numbers. A personal offline outreach is also necessary, whether it be speaking to women’s groups, hosting a ‘bring a friend’ to a golf event and perhaps even setting up a no-pressure golf clinic for women to attend.
The internet can only do so much and is just one piece of a very large puzzle. Thanks for your great comments and suggestions. I agree with you and will do my part to reach out.
Sherry