Dear Kathy

I just started working for a new company and was invited to play golf with the boss and his group. I’ll be the only woman in the group and they’ve been playing together for years. I can play about bogey golf, but I am so nervous I’m afraid I’ll whiff the ball! I love to play, what can I do to calm my nerves?

Jenny

Dear Jenny

Congratulations, you’ve passed some test to make it into this circle! Here are some easy dos and don’ts of playing with the boss.

The Dos:

Do get out to the range and hit some balls, if you’re not playing every week try to get in a couple of buckets of balls. Confidence is everything!

Do sharpen up your short game, chip and putt for at least an hour the week before you play.

Do let them know you’re nervous about playing with them If you haven’t played the course before don’t be afraid to ask about how the holes play.

Do play tees appropriate to your game and handicap.

Do have a solid pre shot routine; this helps the nerves more than anything.

Do keep up the pace and practice your best etiquette.

Do comment on your partner’s great shots but don’t comment on every shot.

The Don’ts:

Don’t try to impress anyone, you’re not going for your career drive on #1 just try to make a smooth swing remember your pre shot routine.

Don’t assume gimme putts; putt all balls out following your pre-shot routine, no casual tap-ins!

Don’t apologize for bad shots, be gracious and focus on your recovery.

Don’t be overly chatty OR talk about business, unless someone else brings it up.

Do have a blast, share your love and enthusiasm for the game and you’ll be invited back!