Fairways to Deals: Golf in Business Networking by
Devin Doyle
Devin Doyle believes that the first tee sets a tone that few boardrooms can match. Fresh grass underfoot, a steady breeze, and a simple handshake open the door to honest conversation Golf slows the clock just enough for people to notice one another The pace invites stories, questions, and a level of trust that rarely appears in a rushed sales call. Four hours together on a course creates space to learn goals, fears, and priorities For business networking, that span of unhurried time functions like a living pipeline where relationships grow one shot at a time
Etiquette anchors the experience Replacing a divot, raking a bunker, or giving a quiet thumbs up after a good shot shows respect. That respect reads like reliability in the corporate world. A player who carefully marks a ball or waits for a partner to hit shows patience and awareness Those small signals form a profile that clients remember. No script can replace the credibility earned by consistent courtesy. It becomes easier to discuss timelines, budgets, or contract terms when the other party already trusts your habits
The course's strategy mirrors business strategy Club selection reflects risk tolerance A layup shows prudence, while a bold carry over water reveals confidence tied to skill Talking through a shot gives a window into decision-making. Do you collect extra facts before swinging? Do you move quickly when conditions favor action? These moments help both sides see how a potential partner plans, adapts, and recovers A double bogey handled with calm can impress more than a birdie followed by excuses. Composure under pressure is the strongest sales pitch of all
Thoughtful planning makes a golf meeting productive. Choose a course that fits the group’s ability so the round stays fun Secure an early afternoon tee time to allow conversation at the turn and a relaxed drink afterward. Bring extra tees, balls, and sunscreen so you can help if someone forgets. Keep the invite generous and straightforward, with a clear offer to cover fees if it makes sense In the cart, mix shop talk with genuine interest Ask about a recent product launch, then follow with a light question about travel or family. Balance is the secret to natural, reader-friendly dialogue that supports sales without feeling forced
Listening drives results. Notice body language when a proposal comes up on the back nine. If someone leans in, add details and examples. If someone grows quiet, ease off and let the view do the talking The goal is not to close a deal between holes The goal is to align interests, reveal fit, and set a next step. A simple recap on the eighteenth green works well. Thank them for the round, name one idea that stood out, and suggest a follow-up call within a day or two Clear and timely follow-up turns goodwill into measurable progress
Diverse formats keep golf-based business networking inclusive Short nine-hole rounds suit tight schedules Scramble events remove pressure and support team building Lessons with a teaching pro allow beginners to join without anxiety. Hosting a charity tournament amplifies your
brand while helping a cause Provide rental clubs and a friendly welcome so newcomers feel at home. The more people who can participate, the stronger your referral network becomes. Accessibility reflects modern corporate values and expands your reach across roles and industries.
Finally, remember that golf is a shared story. Every round carries tiny scenes that people retell in offices and inboxes The chip that kissed the flag The joke that broke the ice The quick pause to watch a hawk ride a thermal. Those details make partnerships human. When you pair thoughtful etiquette, strategic play, and sincere curiosity, the course becomes a natural stage for business networking Deals may start with a calendar invite, but they often mature beside a quiet fairway, where good shots and good intent point in the same direction.