Page 8 - GBC spring 2016

Message From The President • Gilles Debut
As entrepreneurs, we often find ourselves alone as we make decisions on the future of our business. Whether these are major decisions like defining a new business model, selling, going into various partnerships, finding alternate revenue sources, or even micro-decisions like redecorating the clubhouse or buying new equipment; most of the time, these decisions are left for us to ponder alone. Does this sound familiar to many of you?
As I try to de-code all of this, I look at all the papers scattered across my desk and find my precious notebook that houses all of my ideas. I open it up and a smile begins to cross my lips. I read through all of the notes I took during the Golf Business Canada Conference & Trade Show this past November, and all of a sudden, I don’t feel so alone.
Reading through the notes, I realize I have a kinship with 1300 other golf course owners and operators from across the country, who like me, are members of the NGCOA Canada. They too face the same fears, hopes, disappointments, and joy as I do.
Having discussed my concerns and ideas with them at the Conference, gives me the energy to move forward and make the important decisions for the 2016 season. The exchange of ideas and knowledge I received from my peers and the expert speakers gives me the tools I need to rejuvenate and redevelop my creativity.
It does not end with the Conference. I will also be attending the Golf Business Canada Boot Camp in Orlando where I will fill my notebook with many more pages of expert advice from both my peers and Gregg Patterson, the workshop leader.
There are also chapter meetings, golf outings, and various programs and resources that I take advantage of as a member of the NGCOA Canada. I can’t always do it on my own and all of these resources help me succeed year after year.
As they say, ‘it takes a village’ and my village is all of you! Throughout the years you have been generous in sharing your passions, ideas, and solutions with me. I hope that I am part of your village and have been able to help you throughout the years.
All of this collaboration gives me the BUZZ I need to go into 2016 with hope and confidence. Here’s to an early start for 2016!
Respectfully,
Gilles Debut
Owner, Club de Golf les Quatre Domaines, QC President, NGCOA Canada GDebut@golf4d.ca
8 Golf Business Canada
In The Fairway
The life of an entrepreneur is sometimes a lonely one! I am sitting here in my office, looking at the snow covered course, reflecting on our 2015 season and contemplating what changes I am going to make for the 2016 season.
What does the future have in store? Will we see an early spring, a late fall, and good weather for the entire season? How will my greens come through in the winter? How about my marketing? Will it work? Is my team adequate for the coming season? What’s my competition going to look like?
It Takes A Village