The easy, hard things to do

As the property leader, people understand how busy you are. One minute you are finalizing next month’s calendar, the next you have an unhappy member in your office. The work of the leader never seems to end. While this is true, taking care of the things that will keep you focused on the greater good is an important mindset for the business overall. In addition to those items that come at the leader, he/she is looking outward, observing the world beyond their to-do list or pro shop counter. No matter the day, the leader assumes the role of the finest host/hostess, offering up an inviting smile and attitude for the members and their guests. It is about being on stage, working to orchestrate a wonderful experience.

This In My Opinion post provides three thoughts that, although not essential to the club’s financial success, offer ideas to make people feel good about the property and their decision to be a part of your story. This post provides three items that, combined with your normal day, become the not-so-easy items to conquer. Here are those items:

Walk the property every day. It is important to walk some part of the property meeting people where they are. Although it sounds simple, it is undoubtedly a tough strategy to pull off. It is important to move away from your office, clear your mind, find a different focus. The mission here is to see things that a quick spin in a cart would not provide. Walking also helps you to move on purpose, to stop and have a conversation with anyone in view. A daily walk can provide ideas, solutions, and other thoughts that might never appear at the desk. Bring the phone or a pen and pad to be certain to capture what you hear, see, and discover.

Educate the team on cutting waste. This is a story for all on the management team. Putting together a plan to cut waste and other ways to save across the board is smart. Whether it is saving on office supplies, or making certain trash bags are full, the conversations should be specific, doable, and somewhat aggressive to start. Developing a conversation on savings and curtailing waste can be game changers. Present and then continue to measure a cash incentive plan as you define the goals. Pay people to change. Creating a multi-year plan can provide serious savings and put the team in mission mode around these and other long-term improvements.

Take time in every shift to speak with employees one-on-one. This can be a powerful idea (for all managers) that will create real benefits over time. The conversations can start small. They can be about the day, the work at hand, and the individual’s role. Over time, as you and the employees get comfortable with the idea, the conversations might open up and become more freewheeling. In this post pandemic environment, it is important to show the personal side of leadership. To present the idea that team members are individuals, working together to create a special experience. It is about helping others to do their best work. Knowing every individual beyond their position tasks can become your secret sauce.

Moving away from the office, investigating the day, can bring about new discoveries. Making this a steady habit can provide energy, creative thought, and relationship-building that might just build a better organization. Communication is the workplace gap that many seem to ignore and walk around. When you stop and simply ask: “how are you today?” you may uncover leadership opportunities never available to those waiting beyond their desk.

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Jack Dillon writes the In My Opinion posts. Jack is a Consultant, Speaker, and Strategist available to help support your operation and your people. Learn more at www.youdontknowjackd.com or call Jack at 407-973-6136. Jack will be presenting at the 2025 PGA Show. He lives in Orlando.