social golf
Take a Lesson from the Pros –
Why Social Media Is Good for Golf Courses and Golfers Watch the Golf Channel today, and you will continually hear from pros like Ian Poulter, Bubba Watson, Stewart Cink and many others talk about their Twitter accounts. They often brag about the amount of followers they have and even post updates in the middle of a tournament! Why is social media so important to them that they go as far as posting online while on the course, when they are supposed to be focused on executing their next shot and winning the tournament? The reason Ian Poulter will post an update while playing is the same reason a golf course should consider a social media strategy. The bottom line is that an effective social media presence will increase sales. Now sales is not the only thing social media can deliver: With a successful strategy, a golf course can improve on its brand, stay connected with customers, offer special discounts and, most importantly, provide customer service when its customers are away from the course. I read an article a few months back in USA Today that noted how Poulter posted online a picture of himself shaking hands with Prince Charles at the Ryder Cup. In this image, Poulter was wearing a white Power
With a successful strategy, a golf course can improve on its brand, stay connected with customers, offer special discounts and, most importantly, provide customer service when its customers
have. True, there is Golfnow.com and many other discount sites out there, but many courses are offering the best values on their Facebook and Twitter pages. Along with the discounts, golfers will have inside access to what is going on at the course. It is almost as if they are a “member” of the course but
are away from the course.
Balance bracelet, and shortly after his
18
specials that they wouldn’t otherwise
without the cost! I encourage all golfers to do a search for all the golf courses in
post, sales for the bracelet shot up.
that can benefit from your marketing
their area and “like” or “follow” them.
Poulter realized then that his sponsor
efforts, you can still build your brand
They will find many opportunities to
relationships could be impacted
and help spike sales at your golf course.
get deals and privileges as an exclusive
through his online efforts. This is
Additionally, golfers who “friend”
member.
an example of the marketing power
or “like” the profiles of golf courses
If you have any questions or want
of social media. Though you are not
can receive many enticing benefits,
to learn more, please e-mail me at
Ian Poulter and don’t have sponsors
among them access to discounts and
dennis@golfclubmedia.com. Florida Golf Central • Volume 12, Issue 5