AboutPaul Dolman Expertise I am a life member-retired of the PGA of America and have served as a teacher, head professional, general manager and course owner.
Experience Played the game for 48 years. Life member-retired of the PGA of America. Author of five golf instruction books and three instruction videos as well as many golf instruction articles.
Organizations PGA of America
Publications Books published by Handford Press: Golf Secrets of the Big-Money Pros, Short Game Secrets of the Big-Money Pros, Driving Secrets of the Big-Money Pros, The Jerry Heard Super Swing book and video, The Key video, The Master Golfers Report
Education/Credentials Oklahoma Military Academy
Oklahoma State University
Many hours of continuing education throughout my PGA career
Question Looking for creative promotions that a public golf club can offer to attract more business. Such as fundraisers with schools, business, etc...
Answer Hi Nicki,
Fund raisers for charity or to benefit schools, etc. might get you more play but it might not bring your facility much more money than a normal day. Since the organizations that stage fund raisers are doing all they can to "raise funds" for their charitable purpose, in general, they will not pay top dollar to use your facilities.
A better source of funds for events are corporate outings where a large corporate organization is having a sale conference or entertaining their customers. This type of event will net more dollars for the facility. Call the larger businesses in your area and meet with them to show them how you can host their next event. Print up some package deals with various levels of events including promotion and signage for the sponsor(s), food and beverage support, entertainment and hospitality gifts. If you can be a "one stop shopping experience" you will save their people from running all over town trying to figure out how to accomplish all of those things. All they need to do is say "yes" to you and you handle everything from press releases to the awards banquet.
Another avenue for more business is to become good at handling golf leagues and make it well known the you welcome these leagues at your course. Most leagues will spend money on food and drinks following golf and it's good return business.
Also, if you are not already doing it, start collecting email addresses from the people that play your course. Then send email blasts to the list you compile with specials, events, or sales out of the pro shop.
If I knew more about your particular circumstances I might be able to suggest something else but the foregoing ideas should be a good start.
