Business Golf 101

Public relations is about relationships. During the golfing season, a round of golf is the perfect opportunity to build a relationship with someone with whom you will later do business. However, there are some dos and don'ts on conducting business on the golf course. In fact, there's even a course (academic, not golf) for students at Northern Illinois University to learn the proper golf behavior on the links.

Here are twelve tips provided by Professor Dan Weilbaker:
1. Don't rush things. Use the first six holes to get to know your potential customer.
2. Use the next six holes to better understand your potential customer's business.
3. Use the final six holes to share ideas about how you can help meet your potential customer's needs.
4. Close the deal on the 19th hole (or over dinner / lunch).
5. Don't initiate wagering and don't bet more than you have in your pocket.
6. Don't let your bad golf slow down play. Pick up your ball after double par.
7. Don't intentionally play poorly.
8. Observe how people play the game.
9. Listen more than you talk.
10. Don't tell off-color jokes.
11. Don't offer golf advice unless asked.
12. Leave your mobile phone behind.