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Getting the most out of your Time on the Links

As the weather warms up, you might get an invitation or two to spend a day networking on the golf course! This may intimidate some, but it doesn't have to. It's not always about your skill level, but building relationships and making connections. Below are some tips and hints to get the most out of your day on the links and come out on top.

1. Networking on the golf course is about getting to know people, not selling your business or product. Instead, build relationships! Learn the stories about the businesses and how the people involved got to where they are. Chances are, you'll find something you have in common that you can use as a talking point later on to stick in their memory.

Cheektowaga Chamber of Commerce Chair Elect, Mike Hensley of Superior IT, said: "I take customers out every other Friday during the summer for a lunch and golf day.  For my business specifically it is not about selling anything but more about building the relationship and loyalty, and the golf course is a great place to get to really know someone.  The business personality of an individual is very different than their social personality."

Board Member Al Repertorio, from Network Task Group, agreed: "The main ingredient is building a strong relationship, and in my opinion rule number one, do not do business on the course- get to know them."


2. Practice good golf etiquette. Don't get mad or upset if you or a teammate messes up. Make sure you remain collected and cool through all 18 holes. Nobody likes a hot temper when you're golfing, or in business!



3. Don't cheat. In an interview with Forbes magazine, Attorney John Palley gave a great reason not to cheat during your round: “If a person cheats at golf, I don’t think I could trust them as a source I’d refer my clients to. I remember one partner in particular. He went through a dozen balls without ever taking a penalty stroke on that day. On one hole, he clearly lost his ball deep in the rough but all of a sudden he ‘found’ it right on the edge of the fairway. I walked 20 feet and pointed to his original ball (with his company logo on it). He said, ‘Ohhhh, that must be the one I lost the last time I played.’ I am an estate planning attorney and could have referred business to that guy, but I never did.”




4. Don't let the relationships you make fizzle out. Maybe at the time your services or products can't help one another, but stay top of mind. Reach out to your fellow golfers a few weeks later and mention how much you enjoyed your time on the course. Offer to keep their business information on hand in case you run into anyone who can use their services. You could even recall a memorable moment from your afternoon golfing.



Looking to sharpen your skills? The Cheektowaga Chamber of Commerce is hosting our annual golf outing on May 22nd at Chestnut Hill Country Club. You can get more information here!

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