The Hidden Benefits of Golf in Business
When it comes to building relationships and closing deals, traditional conference rooms and coffee shops may not be the only options. For many business executives, the golf course has become a valuable platform for networking and negotiation.
A Game of Character
My brother-in-law, a seasoned CEO, swears by the game as a way to gauge a person’s business acumen. By observing how someone plays golf, he can infer their work ethic, integrity, and ability to handle pressure. Will they bend the rules or play fairly? Can they maintain their composure under stress? These are crucial qualities he looks for in a business partner.
The Plato Principle
As the ancient Greek philosopher Plato once said, “You can discover more about a person in an hour of play than in a year of conversation.” This wisdom holds true in the world of business golf, where the stakes are high and the atmosphere is relaxed.
Golf by the Numbers
Some striking statistics highlight the significance of golf in the business world:
- Over 26 million people in the United States play golf, with men making up the majority (21.7 million).
- A staggering 67% of business executives hit the links, according to the National Golf Foundation.
- When it comes to successful business meetings outside the office, golf courses come in second only to meals, as revealed by a Robert Half survey.
- The number of working women taking up the game has grown by 26% since 1990, double the rate of non-working women.
- A significant 40% of female golfers hold managerial, professional, or administrative positions.
- Research suggests a correlation between golf skills and income among women – the better the golfer, the higher the salary.
What Do You Notice on the Course?
So, do you golf? What insights have you gained about others while playing the game? Share your experiences and observations!
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