Joining a golf club can be an exciting experience for many golf enthusiasts. However, it can also be overwhelming and intimidating for new members. Golf clubs can play a pivotal role in making new members feel welcome and helping them find playing opportunities. In this article, we will discuss six ways that golf clubs can integrate new members into the club and help them find playing opportunities.

(1) Host a New Member Orientation: Hosting a new member orientation is a great way to introduce new members to the club and its facilities. During the orientation, the club can provide information on the club’s history, layout of the course, and the rules and regulations of the club. This is also an excellent opportunity for new members to ask questions and connect with other members.

(2) Connect Them With a Buddy: Some clubs run “buddy boards,” and apps like Quick9 have transformed this into a digital experience to help golfers build their club networks. Assigning a buddy to new members is a fantastic way to ease their transition into the club. Buddies play a crucial role by acquainting new members with the club, introducing them to fellow members, and helping them understand the club’s culture and traditions.

(3) Create an Onboarding Committee: Creating an onboarding committee can help new members feel more comfortable and included in the club. The committee can greet new members, provide them with a tour of the facilities, and help them connect with other members who share similar interests or playing abilities.

(4) Host Social Events: Social events can help new members connect with other members and build relationships. Golf clubs can host events such as happy hours, dinners, and other social gatherings that allow members to socialise and get to know each other.

(5) Organise Group Play: Organising group play is an excellent way for new members to find playing opportunities and meet other members. Golf clubs can set up groups of players based on skill level or interests, and new members can join in on these groups. This helps new members get to know other members while also improving their skills.

(6) Provide Information on Playing Opportunities: Golf clubs can provide information on playing opportunities for new members, such as weekly leagues, rollups, tournaments and other events. This helps new members understand the different opportunities available to them. Technology can also play a role, for example, the Quick9 app provides simple pathways to get involved in these types of club events.

And here’s a bonus tip: Introducing new members to the club’s professionals can add immense value during the onboarding process. Club pros possess in-depth knowledge about the club’s inner workings, key personalities, and integration strategies. Acting as liaisons between members and the club, they provide invaluable insights and guidance. Clubs can take this a step further by arranging a free lesson with the pro for new members. This not only deepens their understanding of club culture but also offers coaching to enhance their golf skills. This dual benefit ensures new members feel welcomed and well-equipped to embrace their club membership fully.

To sum up, golf clubs have a significant role to play in integrating new members and helping them find playing opportunities. A good member onboarding process is essential for member satisfaction and retention. By providing a positive and welcoming experience, new members are more likely to feel connected to the club and want to continue being a part of it. In turn, this leads to increased member satisfaction, retention, and potentially more revenue for the club. Golf clubs should prioritise member onboarding and create a culture of inclusivity and engagement for all members, new and old alike.