You can find business lessons anywhere, if you just look. Many of the best lessons I’ve learned about running a business, dealing with clients, and making a living came in one of my favorite places: on the golf course.

Golf and business have always gone hand in hand. But it’s not only about closing deals on the course. Here are five golf lessons that you can use in running your contracting business successfully.

#1. Know the Course

Sometimes, playing on an unknown course can be fun and interesting. However, much of the time, having some knowledge of the course beforehand can play a big role in your success in the game.

If you don’t know there’s a sand pit just over the next hill, your chances of landing in it are higher. On the flip side, if you are aware of it in advance, you’re going to at least try to get around it and will potentially play a better round.

The same is true in business. If you don’t know what’s around you — what your competitors are doing — how can you stay one step ahead of them?

Business Takeaway: Know your competitors.

#2. Strategize

You can go into every shot without thinking about it, but your chances of success are going to be lower. The best chance of success is to go in with a plan (and be able to adjust it on the fly, if necessary).

You’ll need to consider the terrain you’re playing on, the direction and strength of the wind, and any hazards on the course.

Business-wise, if you’re starting off without a plan, you’re at a disadvantage. A business plan you can adjust to accommodate changes is essential.

Business Takeaway: Have a business plan.

#3. Be Patient

Have you ever seen a golfer preparing for a shot? Non-golfers get impatient or may have a bit of a laugh about practice swings, but preparation is key for getting the shot right.

Sure, you could run up to the tee and smack the ball down the fairway without thinking. But chances are it’s not going to end up where you want it.

Making sure you’re ready and in the right position for what you’re about to do is essential in business. Don’t rush into anything — a contract, partnership, or otherwise. Prepare until you’re more than comfortable before you sign on the line.

Business Takeaway: Don’t rush into things.

#4. Go All In

Teeing off should be the power shot. You wouldn’t hit a half-hearted drive and then try to catch up as you move closer to the green.

When you know you’re going into something, go all in. Hit that first shot as far as you can down the fairway (after your preparation). In business, if you’ve made the decision to do something, don’t do it half-heartedly. If you’re feeling half-hearted, don’t do it at all.

Business Takeaway: If you’re going to do something, do it properly.

#5. Finish Strong

You can have a strong drive, but if you can’t get the putt in the hole, you’re wasting your time. In the business world, you’ve got to be able to close the deal. As they say, “Drive for show, putt for dough.” Closing the deal is the biggest element of making sales — whatever your business.

Business Takeaway: Close the deal strongly and confidently.

A Reason to Be on the Green

Golf is a thoughtful, strategic game. Business is the same. Next time you’re on the golf course, consider the valuable lessons you’re learning, and consciously apply them to your business.

You might be surprised how much you can learn from spending a couple of hours in the fresh air, sun, and green rolling hills!

About the Author

Jordan Fuller has been golfing and doing business for decades, with the two overlapping in many cases. He lives in Omaha, Neb., but has been fortunate enough to play courses all over the United States with high-powered businessmen. For more information, contact: Golf Influence, www.golfinfluence.com.