Day One – Golf Inc Magazine

That first day is the day. That day we are excited for a change. That day we begin something new, different than any other day. We anticipate a day filled with excitement, new people, and new experiences. Many times, however, because people are busy, zoned in on that day’s to-do list, our day shrinks in size. That first day, if it is your day, is extra special to you. It should be made to feel different than any other. For the past several weeks, I have been thinking a great deal about onboarding and the process built for bringing new people onto a team. Onboarding is a topic focused generally on those starting a new job, maybe even a new role within the same organization. Today, however, this In My Opinion post will expand the theme. In this post, I will discuss Day One as it relates to three experiences: as a new hire, the first day as a new member, and the very first round of golf for a new golfer.

The world is so very different than it was in 2019. In this industry alone, you have fewer options for staffing up, more people than ever swinging the club, and so much more of everything except enthusiasm. This feels like the time to get the mojo back. Time to hire the “fun” people, the enthusiastic men and women who love where they work, who love what they do, and who look to add their particular magic to the service experience. These are different times. The time to build the hospitality you might expect when you spend your entertainment dollars. If there is less talent, and fewer people looking for work, then it is time to build a better program, beginning Day One for every new hire, and then every new customer. Here are my opinions on Day One for the new staff member, the new member, and the very new golfer.

Not sure I want this job: This might be the thinking for more than half of the new team members walking into the clubhouse on that first day. Many of us felt this way, I believe, especially when we were young. That first day for a new staff member requires leadership attention, time, and care, with a plan including an enthusiastic welcome. Beginning with the leader, every staff member should be made aware a new person is coming aboard. There should be a plan, and a team advocate, responsible for the welcoming process. On this day, it is important to bring that person into the group, into your story. The more they feel like an outsider, the less likely they are to stick around. Many people today have a choice of jobs, either A or B. Do all you…