(NAPSI)—Many women, looking to advance in their careers, have found the grass is always greener—on the golf course.
As golf remains an important piece of business culture, it is important to empower women to feel confident on the course. Just knowing the basics of the game could encourage participation in key business decisions taking place on the course every day.
Why Play Golf
Consider these stats and facts from the Professional Golfers Association:
• Executives who play golf make 17 percent more than those who don’t.
• 54 percent of business professionals see golf as the perfect networking tool.
• An estimated 90 percent of Fortune 500 CEOs play golf.
• Sandra Day O’Connor, Cameron Diaz, Vera Wang, Celine Dion and Condoleezza Rice are all avid golfers.
• Golf challenges women to go beyond their comfort zone for personal enrichment and a feeling of accomplishment and confidence.
• Playing golf with someone gives you insights into his or her integrity, sportsmanship and personality.
Empowering Women to Learn Golf: Lexus Teams Up With the MGA
The best way to learn the game is in a supportive stress-free environment, such as a local clinic. Lexus recently hosted clinics throughout the tristate area with the Metropolitan Golf Association to help women gain the basic skills needed to get on the course. (Keep an eye out next season because they plan to host more in spring 2019.)
It is important to look for clinics like the Lexus “Introduction to Golf” events that start simple and focus on basics like putting and chipping. You’ll also want an intimate clinic, so you get the one-on-one attention you need as a beginner. If a local pro will be there to speak to the group, even better! It’s great to gain inspiration from those who live and breathe the game. Golf experts such as former LPGA Tour player Tara Fleming; Liz Caron, a member of the winning 2004 U.S. Curtis Cup Team; and Kyla Basso, a highly talented amateur golfer, were present at the Lexus-hosted clinics. Among their advice:
1. Don’t let yourself be intimidated when you step onto the course with clients or colleagues—you’ll do better if you remain confident and calm.
2. Allow yourself time to become familiar with the sport.
3. Don’t expect to be a pro from day one.
With a little practice and hard work, you’ll be reaping the benefits of golf in no time!