Page 44 - GBC spring 2015

What is your most effective training approach /strategy for new hires at the golf course each spring?
The Golden Rule
When a new hire comes on board at one of our courses; we try to instil a key notion, which ideally will permeate every part of that employee’s interaction with customers, other staff, and even their personal attitude, throughout their (hopefully long) career with GolfNorth. Primarily, it’s a sense of ownership. We want our employees to realize that they have a stake in the success or failure of our business, and that we want them to feel like they are “hosting” our customers.
For the turf crew, that means presenting the course in a manner that they’d be comfortable inviting their friends or family to play. Around the clubhouse, it means always welcoming each person with a smile, while making sure that they are comfortable, know where to go, are well fed, and never letting anyone have an empty glass. It’s really just “The Golden Rule”; we encourage our staff to treat each customer in the manner which they’d expect to be treated in a similar situation.
Doug Breen, Regional Vice President GolfNorth Properties, Waterloo, ON
Serious, But Fun!
When it comes to hiring / attracting new staff to the golf club I believe our most effective tool is through word of mouth and reputation. Our motto at Ken-Wo in recent years has been “serious, but fun” - in that we want everyone to take their roles seriously, but we want them to have fun and enjoy their roles.
We have worked hard at creating a culture that not only encourages a fun and friendly working environment for our staff, but also one where staff members are always thanked and recognized. In an effort to build a close knit team we have regular staff social events including an annual golf tournament in the summer, an annual Christmas party in December, and several smaller gatherings that helps to promote the sense of team. This all leads to happy employees who smile often and pass their happiness, energy and enthusiasm on to our members and guests. A win-win for everyone!
Rene MacKay, Director of Golf & Operation Ken-Wo Golf Club, New Minas, NS
The Buddy System
I’m a strong believer in the buddy system. Basically, you shadow a trained employee for a couple shifts and learn their way of doing things. I’ve found this system gives the new employee more confidence and they are more relaxed if there’s another set of eyes to help. It’s a short window of the overlap payroll but it’s been very beneficial to our club.
Kyle Duffin, Head Professional
Lloydminster Golf & Curling Centre, Lloydminster, AB/SK
44 Golf Business Canada