How Communication Skills Apply in Both Golf & Business Settings

Golf and business share a lot of similarities. In both settings, you are trying to achieve a goal while interacting with other people. Communication is key in both cases. If you can’t communicate effectively with your golf partners, you will have a difficult time meeting any of your goals that you set for the course. The same is true for business. If you can’t communicate with your colleagues and clients, you won’t be able to meet your goals. Let’s discuss the connection between golf and business, and how communication skills apply in both settings!

One of the most important communication skills in golf is listening. You need to be able to listen to your partners and understand what they are saying and why they may be saying it. This is also true for business. If you want to be successful, you need to listen to your clients and colleagues and understand their needs. You may be able to assist in areas they didn’t think they need assistance. This is where the “networking” takes place.

Another important communication skill in both golf and business is the ability to give and receive feedback. If you can’t give or receive feedback effectively, you will have a hard time making progress when trying to build relationships. In golf, however, giving feedback can be tricky. Golf is 80-90% mental. Therefore, if your playing partners are not mentally prepared to receive feedback, you shouldn’t offer it. Unless asked to provide feedback, you will need to allow your partner to work through their mistakes on their own.  The same goes for business. You need to be able to respectfully give and receive feedback from your colleagues so you can work together more effectively. However, you don’t want to offend them with unsolicited advice.

If you want to be successful in both golf and business, you will want to have good communication skills. I have this has helped you make the connection between golf and business, and how communication skills apply in both settings. Thanks for reading!

Golf Women Mean Business removes barriers for professionals wanting to play golf with business and networking in mind. We have expanded our services beyond membership and now offer personalized Training & Development programs for corporate employees and entrepreneurs. Reach out today and let’s discuss your Business Golf needs. Patrina King – pk@golfwomenmeanbusiness.com