Sure, golf and business go together like peas and carrots. And today, more and more women are taking the game by storm for business and for pleasure. No longer the domain of rich white men and plaid pants (cue joyful montage to Caddyshack), the game is changing to be more inclusive, stylish and accessible. My friend and past client Elizabeth Noblitt, is the fashion stylist and founder of Shi Shi Putter, the premiere online resource for women golfers who play like their style depends on it—on & off the golf course.
Today she shares a guest post on 3 ways to ace your business performance on the golf course. But methinks you could apply these lessons off the course as well:
Closing deals on the golf course is a main objective for most business people who play the game. Just like the beginning to any relationship, golf is about compatibility. You are spending five hours with someone to see if you like them, trust them, and want to invest in them. It could be the longest date of your life, depending on how it goes. Here are three tips to make sure you ace it.
Be on Your Best Behavior.
In addition to the official rules of golf (of which there are hundreds), there is also an unwritten code of conduct, the basis of which is respect. Be courteous to those in your foursome and those playing around you. If you aren’t sure ask a friend who golfs or get a lesson on etiquette before you play. Here is a great video with a few basics.
Be Stylish.
You don’t have to be Tom Ford stylish, but don’t show up wrinkled like you just rolled out of bed. Call the club ahead of time to learn what their dress code is; they are more than happy to help. While following their rules is important, I think it’s more important to be yourself and not forget your own style. (Tweet this!) If polos make you look boxy, don’t wear them; find a different collared shirt. Being successful depends a lot on confidence and it’s hard to rock it when you feel like a dork.
(Extra tip: When you are purchasing new golf clothes, be sure to try them on for fit. Take a practice swing and bend down to see how the garments fit in those situations. You don’t want to be water cooler talk the next day because you shared a little too much skin on the golf course.)
Have Fun.
In a nutshell, be the person your associates and clients want to play with again.
About Elizabeth: Elizabeth Noblitt is an avid golfer, seasoned event marketing professional and fashion stylist. She founded Shi Shi Putter in 2009 to redefine the game of golf, with a confident blend of beauty, grace and fun. If you would like 1:1 help to look and feel your best on the golf course (and on the street), email Elizabeth at elizabeth@shishiputter.com. Follow her @shishiputter
