Out Of The Boardroom & Onto The Green

Getting out of the boardroom during business meetings may seem like a nice day out and a bit of fun. But playing a round of golf with a potential client or a business contact can reinforce a relatively new relationship and lead to a sale or partnership.

The most clear benefit of playing golf with someone you wish to have a working relationship with, is that you clearly have a shared interest in golf, which immediately gives you something non work related to talk about and marks you out to them as someone who they have things in common. This means they are automatically more accepting of your views, whether on the course or at later meetings.

Like most activities based away from the office, playing a round of golf makes those involved more relaxed and less on their guard, which often makes them talk more freely about particularly difficult subjects such as how much money they have to spend, or whether they are talking to any other suppliers. The questions that you get a stony response to in a traditional meeting may well be answered on the golf course, without you even having to ask.

Another great bonus to striking deals out on the green is the fact that it is not just your companions who are more relaxed, but you as well. This means you will usually be seen in your best light and are able to see how well you would work with your companions.

The important thing to remember is that you aren't necessarily there to get the deal done or contract signed. So make sure those you are playing with have fun, that you retain any info you need, but don't worry if the deal isn't done by the 18th hole.

So now you know the benefits, as part of your next pitching process, why not get out on the golf course. Just remember to have a clear objective beforehand, that winning isn't everything and that