By John Byrne
Golf Pro, Founder
Into the Rough
Golf is a game that makes networking easy, and there are many opportunities for success and failure on the course. If you’re not close friends with your boss, then a game of golf could be a daunting prospect. Follow our etiquette guide to networking and playing golf with the boss — if not to get ahead, then to avoid the sack.
1. Turn up on time. Who wants to be waiting around for an idiot who can’t turn up on time? It’s time they’ll never get back — and may never forgive you for.
2. Play competitively … Be civil but never spare your opponent when the chance is there. This is a competition.
3. … But never get carried away. If you suffer from “golf rage,” then keep a lid on it or don’t bother at all. Nobody wants to see a maniac swinging a golf club into the turf.
4. Dress appropriately. Dress according to the golf course you’re playing on and the personality you either have, or want to convey. If you’re not an exuberant person, then don’t come dressed like Payne Stewart, who was known for his flamboyant golf duds.
5. Don’t spend too much time on lost balls Balls aren’t expensive, time is. And if you are trying to impress people, then their time is even more expensive. So do everyone a favor and hit another.
6. Don’t take too long on shots. How many practice swings do you need? You probably don’t need more than three, so get on with it — before you get left behind.
7. Stay sober. Being drunk is generally a bad idea for obvious reasons. However if your boss is okay with that and encourages you, then stay ahead of the curve and be more sober than he or she is. That way, you won’t feel guilty and will actually remember what happened.
8. Chat but don’t gossip — no one likes a gossip.” People love to gossip, but you don’t want a reputation. And you’ve got to be chatty even if it’s not in your makeup. Golf is a social game, so make the round easier by talking through it. Ignore this rule if networking with computer programmers.
9. Offer to pay. Even if you don’t intend to and know your boss or friends won’t accept it, offer to pay, be it for the round of golf or afterwards in the bar. Hopefully they’ll say no, but you’ll have made a good impression.
10. Relax and be yourself. Have fun and let your personality show through. Be natural and all else will follow — and if you can’t get on, then at least win!About Into the Rough
Golf pro John Byrne is the creator of the UK website Into the Rough. This impressive website aims to be the most comprehensive listing of golf courses, driving ranges, and hotels in the United Kingdom.
“We offer the full package — from tee to green to a good night’s sleep,” Byrne insists, noting the site also provides golf articles and features. For more information, visit www.intotherough.co.uk.
