Straightforward Business Golf Etiquette - Close That Important Deal On The Course!

Were you aware that there’s a special business golf etiquette? Sure, golf has its regular rules and etiquette but business introduces a certain protocol that should be followed…especially if you want to close the deal!

Business and golf is an easy combination. Whether you’re luring a prospective client or trying to get a promotion from your boss, golf plays an important role in business relationships and deals.

This article outlines the major Do’s and Don’ts of business golf etiquette. While we can’t promise that you’ll close the sale with these tips, you’ll certainly have an advantage!

When doing business on the golf course, strictly follow these business golf etiquette Do’s:

Do pay for your guest’s entire day including any practice fees, green and cart fees, beverages and food.
Do compliment your guest on some aspect of his or her game. Avoid going overboard, but do give praise (even if none is due).
Do talk business on the course…but wait until the 5th or 6th hole. Start with small talk (family, current events, etc). This will give your guest a chance to loosen up and get to know you.
Do clean your clubs and polish your golf shoes prior to the round. Present yourself with the same professionalism as you would in an office setting.
Do offer your guest some gimmies on the green. Offer up a mulligan or two during the round.
Do let your guest win by a stroke or two but only if you are both very good golfers. If you can’t break 80, sabotaging your score will be too obvious and it may backfire.

Just as important as the Do’s above, here are the absolute Don’ts in business golf etiquette:

Don’t ever discuss controversial topics on the course such as religion or politics. Even if you think you know your guest’s feelings on the matters, you may lose the deal in one sentence.
Don’t cheat – even if it’s just innocent. It sends the absolute wrong message. If you cheat on your score, will you cheat your customer?
Don’t invite anybody else to play in your group except your guest. You’ll dilute the purpose of the round.
Don’t drink on the course unless your guest does. Offer your guest a drink. If they accept, it’s okay for you. But don’t have more than a couple during the course of your round.
Don’t lambaste your competition. Focus your golf business on selling yourself and your goods or services. This round is all about you and improving the relationship with your guest.

Business golf etiquette, just like normal etiquette, is pretty much common sense. Use your round as an opportunity to build your relationship. Study your guest and how they play the game. You’ll likely learn more about what makes your guest tick in one round of golf than you will in a year of phone calls and meetings.

One final note…act professionally while on the course but make sure to be yourself. Nothing is more transparent (or a bigger turnoff) than an over-the-top sales job while playing golf. Your round should be fun for both you and your guest. The sales will follow.

In addition to business golf etiquette, learn more etiquette tips here.