Like it or not, the golf outing is an important time to establish closer ties, strengthen rapport, and seal camaraderie and loyalty. Show respect for the game with these easy to follow basic rules:

Ensure your dress meets the code of the course you are playing. If you are unsure of the code, call the club you will be playing at. If you show up in unsuitable dress, you may be denied play.

If you are the host of your golfing group, you will want to arrive early to pay the bill at the Pro Shop before the game. It’s a good idea to arrange to meet at the putting green so early arrivals can practice putting. Let the pro know who is cart-partnering with whom, so that the carts can get prepared properly. Check the cart for towels, drinks, and extra score cards. Ensure your guests’ valuables are stored in lockers. And lastly, review the rules of the course with your guests. Your group is ready to get started!

As a guest, it’s important to be a good sport: don’t lie about your score. Don’t pretend to be a hot-shot golfer. Don’t practice your swing while someone is teeing off. Don’t comment on another player’s bad shot. Your cell phone should be turned off, unless you must receive an urgent call. If so, advise your golfing partners before you begin playing, and respond to your call discretely. Remember to play with courtesy and common sense so the game can be enjoyed by all.

At the end of the game, shake hands with your fellow players and thank them for their company. Thank your caddy and provide a tip, unless your host has taken care of this for the group. If so, thank your host for the courtesy. If you joined by invitation, follow up with a thank-you note to express your appreciation for your host’s time and generosity.

With that, I wish you a happy golfing season!

This entry was posted on Friday, July 16th, 2010 at 1:45 pm and is filed under Blog. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.