Would You Be More Successful If You Golfed?

Posted on November 3rd, 2009 by Keith Ferrazzi

foremickeyI've met plenty of people who are interested in golf but are afraid to get started. Golf is foreign, something “other people” or even “rich people” do.

Fear of the unknown = TERRIBLE reason not to do something. So I asked Merryll McElwain, a former golf pro turned financial advisor, to help out those of you with little to no experience with the sport. She has some great advice - especially for women. Golf doesn't need be a "boy's club."

Tell me in the comments: Is golf a “must” or a “meh” in your business?


Former Golf Pro Merryll McElwain on Getting Started with Golf

Former golf-pro turned Financial Analyst

Former golf-pro turned Financial Analyst Merryll McElwain

Why is golf so important to relationship building? Why for women especially?

Merryll: Golf is one of the only sports where you get extensive quality time and conversation with someone. On the golf course, you have several hours of conversation available in between shots to really get to know someone. Golf has typically been a business tool for men. Women have used other ways to build relationships. I hear all the time from successful women who are frustrated with how difficult it is to break into the men's club. Golf, in my opinion, is an excellent tool to do that.

Does it matter if you’re really not a great player?

Merryll: There are so many things that do matter, but level of play is not one of them. Many executives are average or below average golfers. If you’re taking the game up late in life, you are not expected to be good.

What are a few tactical steps anyone can take to learn how to play golf in 30 days?

Merryll: You need about 10 hours a week to learn the game. First things first: get a set of clubs. You want a set of irons with a sand wedge, a driver, and a putter.

Next, sign up for a one-hour lesson at the beginning of each week to cover basics – the swing, chipping, and putting.

Then, practice an hour every weekday and at least a round on the weekends. Find a golf course in your area and start with a par 3 course, then move on to 9 holes on a regular course and eventually golf a full 18 holes.

Are there specific rules of engagement for a business outing on the golf course?

Merryll: Before you get on the course with a business relationship, learn the basic rules - for example, when to take a penalty stroke or where to drop your ball if it goes in the water, etc. Most teachers will go on the course with you if you pay them for a playing lesson, or at least pay for their round.

Second, you need to learn course etiquette. Golf is called a "gentleman's game" for a reason. You need to know where to stand while someone is hitting or putting, how to mark your ball on the green, etc.  You also need to keep pace. No matter how many shots you hit or how many balls you may lose, you have to keep up. Sometimes, this means picking up your ball and sitting out the rest of the hole OR not spending time to look for a lost ball.

Finally, don’t forget dress code and attitude. Many people in business decide on the character of a person based on their demeanor on the golf course. Look at what the pros are wearing and find a style that works for you. Invest in your clothes and shoes, and show up pressed and polished. When you make a tee-time, ask them about their dress code. Some courses require you to wear a collared shirt or to remove your hat in the restaurant. Be calm on the course no matter how frustrated you get. Throwing clubs, cursing and excessive drinking will not get you very far in business. Be honest about your score and don’t cheat!

How do you invite your clients for a round of golf?

Merryll: It's very simple. Find a course that is convenient and relatively central to all parties, call the pro shop to make a tee-time and begin calling your clients to fill up your foursome! If you know a lot of people who play, you may want to send an email with specific details on day, time, place and cost and ask them to reply to all. The point is that you begin reaching out so that they know you play. Then, whether they play in your group or not, they will consider you for their outings in the future and you’ll have more opportunities to builder more meaningful relationships and trust with clients.

Thanks Merryll!

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