Networking harder is not always the answer. Sometimes you need a better environm
By byoungsfl · September 18, 2026 · Curated by George's Blog
Networking harder is not always the answer. Sometimes you need a better environment to build the relationship.
Golf has been one of those environments for a lot of executives and business owners.
If there is someone you would like to play with, I would not start by immediately asking them for a round.
Find out if they actually golf.
Ask where they normally play. Ask how often they get out. Learn whether it is something they genuinely enjoy.
Then make the invitation natural.
Maybe you can fill the fourth spot in their foursome. Maybe there is an early morning before work. Maybe there is an afternoon when both schedules can open up.
A lot of executives are looking for an excuse to get out and play.
The bigger business lesson here has very little to do with golf itself.
Relationships take time.
A quick meeting can be transactional.
A round of golf gives you hours to talk, learn about someone, and build a relationship without forcing every conversation back to business.
But if you are going to use golf as a relationship building tool, invest in learning the game first.
Take three or four lessons. Learn the fundamentals instead of developing bad habits on your own.
You do not have to become an incredible golfer.
You need to be comfortable enough that the game does not become the focus of the entire interaction.
For the golfers here, what is the best business relationship you have built on a course?
#Entrepreneurship #BusinessNetworking #Leadership #BusinessRelationships