As we travel around the O.C. area playing golf, we have run into some great guys and gals that run the local pro-shops. We learn that most starters are working for minimum wage, that’s not a whole lot considering the responsibilities they have. While spending some time in the shops, we noticed that a starter has to answer the same questions during their shifts in the shop. After spending some time with them, we learned they all have some pet peeves. These are things that make the whole check-in process difficult. I’m sure you all have been on the first tee and already not enjoying yourself because of a bad check-in experience. So us guys at OCgolfonline took a survey of starters and came up with this top 10 list of things NOT to do.
· Negotiating the green fee (This is not lets make a deal)
· Trying to get the twi-lite rate before the twi-lite time. (There is a reason there is a time for twi-lite)
· Checking in either at your tee time, or just minutes before. (Starters try to have you in your cart 10 minutes prior to your time and second up)
· Assuming the starter is the reason why the course is running late. (Golfers run late not the shop guy)
· Asking the same question hoping to get a different answer.
· When calling on the phone, asking for every rate they have during busy periods.
(When doing this always call late in the afternoon.)
· Ignoring the starters greeting. (When he says “hello”, say hello back.)
· Checking in multiple times when the starter said he would call you.
· Letting the starter know what time it is. (Most shops have a clock)
· Asking a question that the starter just informed you. (When the starter says take cart 42, and you ask him immediately after, what cart?)
So now with this information, hopefully you will understand the guy in the shop a little better. This should help you enjoy your whole golfing experience by making birdie in the shop and not a bogey or worse.
