Winning on a small budget

Here we are, sitting at the end of another year, preparing gifts for family and friends. Although we strive to maintain a festive mood, we hear over and over how difficult a year the business world will experience once the calendar pushes forward. It appears to run on a continuous loop with the words “inflation” and “recession” central to the theme of this daily diet. We get it; it is not going to be a walk in the park. Business leaders will need to be proactive, diligent, and disciplined. In golf, the property leader will need to tighten the budget, while pushing to create an experience that remains inviting and rewarding for members and guests. This is hospitality after all. With a potentially small cap-ex budget, the club must continue to be that special place of invitation, presentation and consistent execution. While you may be short on important dollars to invest in physical improvements, there are things you should consider essential even with so many lights ahead turning red. Included in this post are three important features critical to the presentation and flavor of the property. No matter the nature of the economy, all want to be proud of their club and proud of where they invest their time. Here are three ideas to consider as you plan out 2023:

• Make clean the standard: Beginning with the parking lot entrance and touching every square foot of the property, building and maintaining an essence of clean can make a huge difference. It is one of those important things people notice, but rarely mention. People love cleanliness and respect the discipline of those who carry it out. Cleanliness is an important differentiator. Make cleanliness the mission, recognizing and rewarding team members for continuous execution.
• Fresh and neat: In the early days of Disney World, guests were amazed at how fantastic Magic Kingdom looked, no matter the time of year. One secret: they painted the Merry-Go-Round every night! It was a ride that received constant use by families, so the impression of an always new-looking ride was an amazing takeaway for Disney with parents. Although your cap-ex budget may be small, consider painting those areas in constant need, as well as those locations that attract the most eyeballs. Have those important areas always looking fresh and neat. This kind of attention may just attract more members as well as events throughout the year. I am speaking about those areas (doors, entrance spaces, and outside areas) that can create a…