Golf as a Diplomatic Tools

Last week, I was involved in organizing golf tournament at Borneo Highlands Resort specifically for our company’s clients. In an email to all fellow Branch Managers, who were involved in organising the tournament, I wrote:

"Dear Comrads,
The most important thing to keep in mind when organizing this golf tournament is entertaining our customers and ensuring they have a good time at Borneo Highland. Take advantage to broaden our networks, establish an image as an excellent banker and help build relationships and trust. Let us value this tournament as a business tool which is part of our strategic acquisition plan.

In one hand, we are providing our customers an escape from stresses and strains of modern urban life, offering fresh air, pleasant scenery and a temporary return to rural surroundings. Furthermore, many customers find themselves wheel-bound and deskbound throughout the working day and the lack of exercise that lead to their health problems.

Our company is moving in the right direction i.e. hosting a golf tournament for high net-worth customers and prospects. Or perhaps a simple gift of golf balls will do. No matter how golf is incorporated into a strategic plan, it is sure a success.

This coming tournament on June 19th provides an opportunity to get to know customer much better and establish trust. Our behavior as a host reflects a great deal about whom we are and how we deal business away from the course. Therefore, playing a 4-5 hour round of golf can prove vital in building business and retaining loyal customers

While golfing ability has little to do with a successful round of golf, good preparation, good ushering, knowledge of the game and the rules of golf etiquette should not be underestimated. Apart from the competitive aspect, golf is a game of courtesy, respect and consideration. Regardless of skill level, it is vital to act as a professional Banker..

Thanks - OM "

Footnote:

Presiden and Barrack Obama and his most powerful Republican critic met on the green on 18 June 2011 in what was billed as the first US ‘golf summit’ involving the fierce political foes. On 21 October 2008, Cambodia's defence minister teed off with Thai military officials in a spot of golf diplomacy ahead of talks aimed at resolving a fierce border dispute.

President Obama and House Speaker John Boehner are at loggerheads over several issues including taxes, spending cuts and operation in Libya but on the green they are on the same wave-length on the game and enjoying the scores.

You may not talk while on the green but a long walks or a cart rides between shorts are often seen as a way to improve relations. This is the opportunity that I think has value beyond the game. Spending a number of hours together in that kind of environment can only help to improve the chances of bipartisan cooperation.

That is on the high-level part of the golf.