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‘It’s Such a Fine Line’: Why I’m Cool with Networking on the Golf Course (And Why You Should Be, Too)

Golf and finance go way back. You’ve probably heard the classic stories—deals hammered out on the back nine, business cards swapped between putts, and deals sealed with a handshake in the clubhouse. As a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ (CFP), I’ve seen this tradition stick around even as digital tools like LinkedIn and Zoom take over. But in 2024, is golf networking still a smart move, or is it starting to feel outdated or even a bit off?

The truth? It’s not so clear cut. Let’s break down what really happens out there on the green.

The Magic of the Golf Course

There’s no denying golf has a special way of bringing people together. Spending four hours out there, phones mostly tucked away, with plenty of moments to chat between shots—it’s a rare chance to actually connect without distractions.

I’ve witnessed some of the strongest relationships grow over an 18-hole round—partnerships that would’ve taken months to build in the office. The game creates a space where conversations about values, investment styles, and long-term goals flow naturally. People drop their guard. Honestly, you learn a lot more about someone’s character in a round of golf than in ten meetings.

Building trust quickly is tough in any business, but golf speeds things up. The sport’s etiquette—like being honest about your score, being patient, and respecting the course—mirrors the best traits in finance: transparency, diligence, and integrity.

For advisors, this kind of connection can lead to referrals, stronger client loyalty, and a deeper understanding of what really matters to clients. I’ve seen plenty of hesitant prospects turn into long-term clients by the 16th hole.

The Other Side: The Optics Problem

But here’s the catch: golf can also feel like a gatekeeper. Not everyone has the time, money, or interest to play. Between expensive clubs, green fees, and lessons, it’s not the most accessible hobby. Plus, some people just don’t enjoy the game. Then there’s the old-school, sometimes exclusive vibe of private courses and country clubs, which can feel unwelcoming.

This creates a divide. If the best chances for career growth, mentorship, or deals happen somewhere not everyone can go, is that really fair? I’ve seen talented junior advisors left out just because they don’t golf.

And let’s be real—there’s also a diversity problem here. Golf courses, especially private ones, tend to be dominated by white men. If your firm cares about diversity and inclusion, leaning too heavily on golf networking can unintentionally send the wrong message. It can reinforce that “old boys’ club” vibe, even when no one means it that way.

Where Golf Works (And Where It Doesn’t)

When done right, golf helps build trust and creates memorable moments. It’s less about the score and more about the time spent together. I’ve had clients open up about money worries after missing a simple putt. There’s something about being outside your usual setting that invites honesty.

But here’s where it falls short: if golf is your go-to—or worse, your only—networking tool, you’re limiting yourself. You’ll miss out on smart, driven people who either don’t play or don’t want to. You risk pushing away talent and making your team less diverse.

Plus, golf isn’t great for people who feel nervous about their skills, hate the game, or just can’t carve out four hours. I’ve watched teammates cringe their way through rounds, too worried about their swing to really connect. That’s not the vibe you want.

Don’t Forget Compliance

Finance isn’t like other industries—compliance is serious business. Unofficial meetings can raise eyebrows fast. Documenting business chats outside the office is tricky, and expensive golf outings might look like gifts, which can cause regulatory headaches—especially when clients or prospects are involved.

In my experience, firms that lean too hard on golf risk stepping on their own policies or catching unwanted attention from regulators. The key here? Keep it casual, be transparent, and always document what you can.

What’s Working Better These Days

The finance world is shifting. Younger advisors and clients tend to value shared values, community involvement, and authentic experiences over traditional golf outings. I’ve seen deeper connections form volunteering at a food bank or partnering on local causes than on any fairway.

Virtual networking is also stepping up. Thoughtful coffee chats, webinars, and online workshops can connect you with people who might never pick up a golf club. Plus, these options are more inclusive and reach a wider audience.

My Take (With a Few Notes)

Honestly, I don’t see anything wrong with using golf as one way to network—especially if you enjoy the game and the people you meet do, too. But it shouldn’t be your only method.

Where it gets tricky? When firms rely on golf as a shortcut for building relationships or as a way to decide who “fits” the culture. That’s when it stops being helpful and starts shutting people out.

If you want your team to grow, innovate, and welcome diverse voices, you’ve got to meet people where they are. That means mixing up your approaches. Golf is fine—as long as you’re honest about its limits and make space for other ways to connect.

Wrapping It Up

Golf networking isn’t disappearing anytime soon. But as finance evolves, so should how we build relationships. If you love the game, definitely use it. Just don’t lean on it exclusively. Make sure you’re inviting people to different kinds of events, rotating activities, and paying attention to who’s missing from the table.

The best teams I’ve seen honor tradition but aren’t stuck in it. They know the golf course is just one route—and they’re happy to take a few detours along the way.

So, am I wrong for being okay with networking on the golf course? Not at all. But I’d be wrong to think that’s the whole story. And in today’s finance world, that’s a distinction worth remembering.

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