[drewitgolf]

Drew,
For a Sox fan you sure do ask some great questions, and this one may be one of the best.

I would agree that word of mouth is important and nothing can be better. However, self promotion is a tremendous asset that I, and many other PGA Professionals, are not very good at. I am not big on "trumpet blowers" but if you do not blow your own horn, who else will. Word of mouth will keep you in business, but getting your message out to the masses opens more doors.

Steve Wresh is another amazing teacher in Florida I have been fortunate to know. He gives "free clinics" with a "free" follow-up lesson to people in the Villages. These clinics only cost him his time and the returns are phenominal, his book is always full and he sells alot of equipment as well. In an area where other professionals feel their clientel is "cheap", he does quite well. Once again he brings them in on the cheap then keeps him with his talent.

I hope this helps.

Jeff,

I think besides me and Rob Baxter (BBax), you were the only other one in Lynn's living room cheering on the Sox during the ALCS. I know I can convert you to becoming a full-time Red Sox fan and join a "steroid-free" Red Sox Nation.

Thanks for the excellent post. We always have to walk a fine line between running a successful business and appearing arrogant.

I have always preferred the Steve Wresh approach. If there is perceived value in your presentation, then a relationship can be established. Give them more than they expect. As some forum members will attest, my half hour lessons can sometimes turn into a ninety minute get together (as long as I don't have pending appointments and they have the time to stay), especially if the student is interested in TGM. And no, I don't charge them for more than the half hour lesson. I teach because I love to teach and have fun doing it. If I taught only, instead of being a head Professional at a private country club, I may feel different.

I am always looking for fresh ideas. Have you found any programs that you run to be more successful than any other? Example, for years, I ran a successful ladies golf clinic, for seven weeks (one day per week), followed on the last day by nine holes of golf (where I helped them get arround the course with a little course management) and wine and cheese at the conclusion of the round in the clubhouse. Quite often, a few even joined as members. A win-win for all, just like the Red Sox.