Bored of playing the same golf course? Why not try a Social Network for Golfers

Many golfers no longer see the value in playing the same course over and over and with the increase in the numbers of golf clubs opening their doors to more visitors, there has never been a better time for the golfer to increase their portfolio of clubs they play.

Coupled with the plethora of online golf tee times platform that have driven down the price of some tee times green fees, now is the time to look at joining an Online Golf Club. There are number of platforms and apps available to join – just search ‘Golf Groups’ in Google and you will see many options but what is the criteria for judging which Online Golf Society to join?

Here’s ten top tips for choosing which golf website platform or app is right for you…

1. Is the site being used and are there any active forums?
2. Is the site easy to navigate and use?
3. Does the Online Golf Society have a list of upcoming events?
4. Is there a messaging system within the App?
5. Can you build a Golfers Profile and grow your numbers of golf contacts?
6. Is there a ‘Society’ options in which you can promote your events?
7. Can you track your golf handicap and get a handicap certificate?
8. Do they offer discounted Green Fees to members?
9. Can you add photos, society results and your society handicaps?
10. Does it allow you to meet with other golfers in your area?

Each Social Network for Golfers offers its own unique way or presenting its layout and functions but as with all these things, simplicity is key. Try to find a website or platform that is quick and efficient and of course one that does not sell your data or bombard you with email promotions.

There is no doubt they in the future this is the way that many golfers with connect with other golfers and with the technology constantly evolving, there is no reason why anyone, rich or poor should ever play golf alone again!

The benefits of good Golf Course Reviews or Golf Club Reviews

When leaving a golf club review for your fellow golfing nomads, there is a number of criteria you should look to include in any feedback. Firstly, ensure your review is not based on the quality of golf you played on the day. In addition, take into account the weather conditions and the price of the round – just because it was expensive, does not mean it was not good value for money.

 Ten Top Tips to consider when writing your golf course review…

1. Was the club located close to major roads?
2. Were you given a friendly welcome on arrival?
3. Were the Pro shop and bar staff professional?
4. Was there a good selection of food available?
5. Was the course well maintained?
6. What was the condition of the tee boxes and greens?
7. Was there good signage on your entrance to the course?
8. Was there a history to the club?
9. Was the green fee reflective of the quality of the course?
10. Would you return?

It goes without saying, that every golfer will have a different experience to the next but in today’s modern world, it is paramount that clubs take heed of the reviews that travelling and visiting golfer give their club, as this could, and in time will, affect the ability for clubs to survive.

Sadly, gone are the days when clubs can just rely on their local constituents as a steady trade. In fact, with golf club membership continuing to fall – it is paramount that golf club owners start listening more to the views of visitors. A good golf club reviewer will also take pictures and share these in their reviews – this is particularly useful for readers, as they can provide images of how the course looks throughout the seasons.

Finally, be generous, its easy to give negative feedback than positive but above all, be honest!

How to manage your Golf Society or Golf Group online

Ideally, when looking for a golf group or golf society management system, look for one that provides the following:

1. Score Tracking – This prevents any unnecessary argument over group members handicaps
2. A leaderboard table – Meaning you can keep you member informed of their rankings
3. Email or Messaging – A system that you can update your results in one stroke (no pun intended)
4. Photos/Images - A place where you can store images of your golf days & golf events
5. Handicap Certificate – No more arguments over who’s playing off what!
6. Grow your Society – Increase the awareness of Golf Group Online
7. Special Rates - Take advantage of Golf Society Website Partner Green Fees
8. Increase Participation - Promote your games and events to other golfers
9. Total Control – Organisers can add or delete members at their discretion
10. Everything in One Place – No more searching for email address and contact numbers

Of course, having a stand alone golf group or society website yourself, arguably gives you a certain amount of control but can you create the sophisticated functions available on the bigger websites? In today’s world, a website or social media page will get you so far but using this route will have its limitations.

With so many golf society platforms now growing fast, it’s only a matter of time before traditional golf club membership as we knew it, will be a thing of the past.

Alas, there is no reason why anyone should be forced into joining a club to find golfers to play with.

So, if are you looking to meet playing partners online and join a group or golf society near you … Try out one of the many golf group online platforms and start playing more golf today!