Make Some Green From the Greens with Golf Course Employment
May 29, 2007
Common sense has it that you should pursue a job in something you enjoy. Being passionate about your work makes going in to your place of employment far more enjoyable each morning, and, of course, getting paid for something you love is a bonus. For example, if you love to golf, golf course employment opportunities may be right for you. You can work on the greens, doing something you love while also taking home a paycheck.
There are many types of golf course employment opportunities out there, so you may want to begin by considering what type of job on the golf course you might enjoy. On the course, you may work as a staff member in the shop. You can also work as a starter, maintaining the starting times and tee sheets. Another golf course employment option is to find work as a ranger, which involves monitoring the pace of games and helping players on the course. Maintenance and locker room attendant jobs are also available - these jobs help to keep golf courses looking and functioning ideally. Mechanics also help keep the golf course equipment functional and safe. Keep in mind, too, that some golf course employment opportunities take you off the course and into the office. Food and beverage preparers and servers are required at most golf courses. Plus, marketers and promoters are needed on staff to attract customers. Any one of these opportunities may appeal to you.
If you have decided that you would enjoy working in the golf industry, you will have the best luck finding opportunities by deciding for yourself which golf course employment type you want to pursue - preparing to work as a golf course mechanic is very different than preparing to work as a caddy. Once you have decided what type of job you want, go online to find out what requirements potential employers look for in specific employees. Education requirements will vary. Many top-level golf jobs require college degrees, while general jobs may require only a love of golf and good interpersonal and customer service skills. Find out what is required for the job you want and work on developing those specific skills.
Once you have decided to target a specific job, write up your resume. Remember, golf courses are businesses, so you need to highlight the fact that you can serve customers and make them wish to return to the golf course. Even if you have no golf course experience, list any customer service expertise you do have, and be sure to highlight any accomplishments. Pointing out that you were recognized for making the most sales or for your customer service is important, so don't leave these details out. You may also want to point out any golf experience you have. If you have taken golf classes or have taught golf, even on an informal level, that can help convey to employers that you love the game and are knowledgeable enough about it to help customers on the course.
When looking for work, you can visit golf course web sites directly and look for "careers" pages on the sites. You can also glance through online job banks for various golf course employment opportunities. However, don't overlook networking opportunities. Actually becoming a member of a course you are interested in or joining local golfers' associations can help you meet your potential employers and can help you land that first job. You may also want to consider golf associations, clubs, resorts, golf-themed cruises, manufacturers, retailers, and even golfing publications or television networks when job hunting.