Golf is one of the few sports often associated with business. One of the primary reasons many people take up the game of golf is the opportunity to play with business peers or potential clients. Many companies even offer golf lessons to their new executives, as they have recognized the value of the game to the business arena.

It’s no myth that many business deals are started and sealed on the golf course. You see it all the time on TV and in the movies; the movers and shakers of a company get together on the greens and talk business between holes. It’s obviously done at a high level; any fine points of a contract probably will be covered at another time.

Golf provides the opportunity to spend as much as six hours of quality time with a business client or colleague. Some say that golf is associated with business because the game brings out the best and worst in people. Many of the rules of golf also apply to the business world – being prepared, paying attention, assessing situations quickly and maintaining ones composure.

If you’ve been asked to join a business group at the golf course, here are a few tips for your first time out. First, know your agenda. Identify what you want to get out of the time together and what other players will get as well. And even though you are there to play, your main area of focus should be interaction with others. Different than your Saturday morning game with friends, you aren’t there to shoot your best round of golf – instead, are you focused on the business agenda? Most importantly, know golf etiquette. Your golf skill is secondary; in this business situation, it is very important to follow the rules and how to act and talk on the course.

Playing golf with business partners has a good chance of enhancing your career. Enjoy your time on the course; you will be amazed at all you will be able to accomplish!