Golf is more than a just sport. Today, it has become a social and a cultural phenomenon that allows people to get together in the spirit of fun and healthy competition. While playing golf people develop bonds that have paved the way for some of the biggest deals that shaped the commercial world.
But what is it, exactly, about the sport of golf that makes it an extension of the boardroom? How come the golf course became a venue where business and leisure do meet? And why do golfers feel that they belong to a brotherhood which they must uphold?
Five reasons why the golf course has become an extension of the board room:
- No other sport can foster the development of relationships as much as when people take up golf. Whether for business ties or personal friendships, the long time spent together on the golf course allows you to get to know each other better and bond like the oldest of friends. You both go at your own pace, enjoying the scenery, managing your game, rejoicing over triumphs or trying over and over again to get that hole in one.
- Golf allows you to see a different side of the person, other than the one you see in the boardroom. In this relaxed and leisurely setting, you can observe and discover the personal qualities which may convince you to either accept or reject to a proposed business deal. Golf has been said to be a test of character. If you find out that he cheated on the score card, would you still take the risk of getting into business with him?
- Unlike other sports, golf does not require a lot of brawn. However, it requires a great deal of patience, intelligence, focus, creativity and control — the same qualities that make great businessmen. Throughout the game, you will be able to recognize how a player calls his shots, controls his pace, surveys and analyzes the golf course and strategizes how to turn things to his advantage. If his game is good, mostly likely his business management practices are sound as well.
- Golf lets you expand your business circle. It’s a gold mine of business contacts, as almost all the executives play a round of golf every once in a while. Unlike in the usual business gatherings where conversation can be shallow and time is very limited, golf brings you much closer to another person than just being a mere acquaintance or “someone you know from the business”. Not only can you make business connections, a real friendship may develop.. Even if the whole point of golf playing is to discuss some things about business, it is inevitable for you to talk openly about other matters, like family or personal goals.
- A round of golf gives you ample time to lobby a business or arrange a deal without the additional tension or stress. You can manage to give some key details and you are able to fully explain these. No more fancy presentations or hard core negotiating, just a pleasant talk during a game of golf. Such a relaxed pace and a breathtaking environment certainly makes for a far more agreeable mood.
Golf gives you real quality time with other executives and can lead to unexpected opportunities that will enhance your professional and personal life.
