Creating the Desired Relationship

by Brian Anderson; CCM & McMahon Careers Executive Search Consultant

In most clubs, the racquets program is working well until it isn't. If that happens, you will wish you spent more time getting to know the Racquets Department.

Most GMs of a full-amenity club spend time with their Chef and their F&B Department by spending time "working the dining room" or "helping in the kitchen." It is widespread, if not expected, that the GM spends time with their Superintendent on the golf course--what GM hasn't heard; "The golf course is our greatest asset." A good GM walks the buildings with their facilities engineer often to address issues. A good GM spends time with the Golf Pro.

How much time does a GM spend with the Director of Racquets? "If it ain't broke, don't fix it." I have been guilty of this as a GM. Many times, the racquets program is located in a separate building and "runs itself." As a GM, or as an aspiring GM, I recommend you spend an equal amount of time with the Director of Racquets as you do with your other department heads.

Noticing I was not spending a similar amount of time with the racquets program, I changed my ways. There are so many ways to stay involved with what is going on “down at tennis”, but here is what I suggest:

Weekly lunches with the Director of Racquets

Take lessons (in off times) with some of the teaching pros.

Learn about the member experience--. Does the booking process work efficiently? What does the member experience walking onto, and leaving the courts?

Get to know the Pros better.

Show up one day for a lesson without a racquet. Do they provide one? What condition was the racquet they provided?

Add the racquet events to your calendar. Make a point to drop in on several member events.

Attend the Committee meetings (if you don't already).