I think it’s strange when I hear that my colleagues or clients are nervous playing golf with the “boss”.  I guess that would be case if you were a completely new golfer.  Many of these folks will ask me what they should do.  While there is no clear cut list of things to do, here are some guidelines that I generally share:

1. Do not admit to more than you are.  If you have a USGA handicap, share that.  Do not say “I’m about a 9 or 10″, if you are not.  Golf is a great identifier of many personal and professional traits, and it identifies honesty and hubris very quickly.  There is nothing more annoying than a person saying they are a 10, and then going out and shooting 100.  This will make serious golfers wonder what else is exaggerated.

2. Manage your expectations (and do not verbalize your frustrations).  If you have a 220 yard shot, out of the rough, up hill into the wind, and you pull your 2-iron and hit a worm burner 20 yards, still in the rough, do not loudly bemoan your lack of luck, golf skill, etc.  Truth is, a PGA pro would only pull of the shot 1 out of 8 times.  You sit behind a desk and computer the majority of the day.  Do not expect more.  Take bad shots and bad choices in stride and gracefully.  This shows how grounded you are, and also demonstrates how you behave in the face of adversity.

3. Know and demostrate golf etiquette.  It’s simple and shows respect to your playing companions and the game.  Are youplaying ready golf?  Then, be ready.  Do not walk on other people’s lines.  If everyone is ready at the same time, let the one with the birdie on the previous hole go. Be quiet when others are playing their shots.

4. Understand your playing companions’ expectations.  Is this a social round?  Is this competitive? Do not drink yourself silly if your boss is a serious golfer who is looking for a game.

5. Know club etiquitte.  If you are playing at someone’s club as a guest, know that you should not change your clothes / shoes in the parking lot.  There should be facilities for you to use.  There may not be cash accepted there for drinks / greens fees.  Ask, and then be generous with your tips.  You may be nervous, but there is no reason to be.  You were invited.  If you are unfamiliar, ask.  Honesty works here.

6. Play fast (or on time). Do not be a snail out there. You are playing with the boss. In his / her mind, this is 4 hours of time. Do not make it 5+. They did not sign up for that.

7. DO NOT CHEAT!