Over the weekend, I played a round of golf with a gentleman that was a little cranky so I didn't enjoy myself as much. Because of this experience, I started to think about how playing golf relates to building relationships. Below are my top four comparisons between golf and business:
1. Wear Appropriate Attire - In golf, you need to wear collared shirts and spikeless shoes. In business, you need to dress appropriately for each occasion, which is usually professional. Also, make sure that your shoes are presentable so get a regular shoe shine.
2. Treat People with Respect - In golf, you need to be nice to your playing partners even if you don't get along with them. Part of what makes the golf experience is enjoying each other's company. In business, you need to also be nice to people regardless of how they treat you. The last thing you want is for people to think negative about you.
3. Be a Good Conversationalist - In golf, you will spend up to five hours with other people so make sure that you are open to having a conversation, otherwise, you will have a long day. In business, you need to be comfortable talking with people so you can start to build some relationships. With both, don't interrupt people and wait for your turn to talk.
4. Follow Proper Etiquette - In golf, you need to follow proper etiquette such taking your shots in the correct order (person farthest away always shoots first) and fixing ball marks on the green. In business, you need to follow proper etiquette as well such as thanking people and showing hospitality.
I'd add "follow through" - many people spend more time getting to the ball and never think of the follow through, which is of course as important than the swing.
Not that I am that good of a golfer or anything...!
mp/m
Posted by: Mike Maddaloni | July 09, 2007 at 06:14 AM
Great suggesion Mike. Follow through is so important for both to work.
Posted by: Jason Jacobsohn | July 09, 2007 at 10:51 PM