A client I really like emailed me a question on Tuesday:
What is your opinion on country clubs and business development?
After changing his name and with his permission, I’m sharing my reply.
Morning – hope all’s well. As you might have guessed, this question is right in my wheelhouse. : )
Grantland Rice once said you can learn more about a man in a round of golf that you can in 18 years of work. I do believe that’s true. That said, if you’re not careful, country clubs can be disastrous.
In short, don’t be “that guy.”
Members Of The Club
If you want to join, awesome! If you want to build relationships out there, awesome! But just be known as “Dave the good guy who’s a member of my club” and not “that guy Dave who’s always trying to hit me up for business.” Don’t become the guy other members avoid.
Bringing Guests
It’s a great perk to be able to take clients and prospective clients out to play, but don’t get a reputation around the club as that guy who ONLY brings guests out and uses the club for business. Engage with members of the club, too, but don’t try and sell them anything.
Skill Level
Don’t worry too much about this. If you’re a hack, that’s no problem, as long as you invest time in getting better. Take your lessons right there at your club. Study etiquette. As a former single-digit handicapper, I never once minded playing with someone who couldn’t break 100 as long as he or she played quickly and knew how to carry themselves on a golf course. In short, learn how to play well with others. Don’t be that guy who sticks out for all the wrong reasons.
Knowing you, I’m guessing this would be a great move for you. You’re naturally athletic and fun to be around. I think you’d have a great time, and your family would, too. Just remember that everyone goes there to get away from work… not to actively engage in it, but if you’re engaging yourself, it will help you build your personal brand of awesomeness and represent the company very well.
Hope that helps!
Thanks!
Tim