I know there are a large number of business executives whose golf skills could rival Tiger, but seldom do many of them play from the tips when they play business golf.,,unless they are playing another Tiger challenger.
Recently I asked a group of scratch golfers if they play from the tips when playing business golf. 95% responded they play from the tees their guest or host plays from. Why?
Many times someone playing from the back tees while the rest of the group, their guest or host plays from the middle or near forward tees is seen as being arrogant. Arrogance is not a good trait to demonstrate to someone whom you plan on wanting to do business.
The purpose of the initial round of golf a group plays together should be to get to know each other better. The round should be played on common ground meaning all should play the tees meeting the lowest common denominator of golf skills of the group.
I hear golfers tell me they play golf for the complete challenge of the game and playing from a forward tee diminishes the challenge of playing golf. Playing from the backs tees is great if you are playing by yourself or with your buddies on Saturday or in competition, however, in the business golf arena the round should not be stressful. When someone insists on playing from the back tees when the rest are not comfortable from back there does not set up a pleasant day of golf. Having someone play from the back when they can’t hit the golf ball to the forward tee does not make for a fun or relaxing day.
When a group of business golfers all play from different tees the round will progress into becoming a class act in a negative way. Those playing forward have to wait for those playing back to hit which in many course layouts may place them many yards a part. The time it takes to all to relocate to the next tee or tees could effect the pace of play.
A lot of character evaluation takes place on the tee back and when everyone tees off from the same place it builds on the relationship made when everyone experiences the same shot to the fairway or green.
Dave Bisbee, PGA Teaching Professional at Seven Canyons in Sedona, AZ..”When I am playing with business clients I always play from whatever tee they are playing from. I even will play from the forward tees if the groups is all ladies and will allow me to join them. To me, what tee I play presents me with a different challenge to the game I am playing with my guest or host. What is important to me is connecting with the person or person’s I am playing so I can get to know them better. What knowledge I gain from learning more about their personality on the course helps me know how to communicate with them during our business talks that come later.”
Business deals are started on the golf course but seldom closed on the golf course. A lot can go on during a round of golf that can change a business deal. Don’t let your machoizum ruin a business deal or round of golf with someone you just met. There will come a time to play from the nose bleed section of the golf course and test your ultimate golf abilities. Just let time take its course in a round of business golf. It will pay off for everyone.
Let me know how I can help.
