Networking on the Golf Course

Most golfers hit the golf course to enjoy a little health competition, or simply because they love playing the game. Some golfers use their skill to improve upon business relations. A great place to schedule business meetings can be on the green. A golf course is also a great place to meet new people and make business connections. So work on your business savvy and enjoying your favorite sport at the same time with these golf course networking tips.

Business Cards

Don’t show up empty handed, if you intend to network. Throw some business cards in your golf bag, even if networking isn’t your main goal of the day. If someone wants to make personal plans after a day of golf, it’s easy to hand them a business card with your contact information on it. It’s always a good idea to keep some cards in your golf bag.

Show up alone

One of the best ways to meet new people on the golf course in Bend, is to show up alone. You will likely be placed in a foursome with other people if you show up alone to the course. This forces you to meet new people, and provides the perfect opportunity to engage in conversation and network. During a full 18-hole game you’ll have plenty of time to learn what they do, who they are, and who they know.

A Golf Business Outing

It can be best to plan a business tee time with a meal in mind, especially if you’re planning a round of golf with business associates or partners. Taking your discussion to the lunch table or a happy hour bar, can be the best way to connect and share future business plans or ideas. This added time should allow you to go into more detail about business projects or whatever else you wish to discuss.

Don’t push it

Most people are out on the course to enjoy a day of being outdoors, hanging with friends, and spending time working on their swing. It’s important to remember this.  If no one wants to talk about business, it’s important to let it go. Networking can’t be pushed. Golf was not designed specifically as a networking event, so try breaking the ice, and talking about other things. What you do for business and where you work will eventually come up.

Reading your audience can be key when networking. Some people may just want to play golf, and leave the discussion of business behind at the office. Networking on the green can be a great way to make connections in world of business, but there is a right way and a wrong way of doing it.  Playing a game of golf can be a low-key way to get to know new or potential business associates, or propose potential business ideas. Don’t blow your chance by being too pushy, and remember to enjoy the game as well.