Golf Mentor Orientation Materials
Here’s a brief overview of what to expect and how you can make the most of your experience as a mentor:
Orientation Session
We will be hosting an orientation session to provide you with all the necessary information about the program, your role as a mentor, and what to expect during your time at and on the course. This session will include specific details about reserving tee times, checking in at the course and on-course tips and expectations. This session will also be a great opportunity to meet fellow mentors and members of the Watson Links team.
Communication
Clear and open communication is key to a successful mentorship.
● Talk with your mentee at the beginning of each round, use open-ended questions rather than yes or no questions
● Look at your mentee when talking and listening
● Provide encouragement throughout the nine holes
● Be patient. It may take time for the young player to feel comfortable around you
● Smile, model casual conversation, use their first name, celebrate small victories
● Be approachable and responsive to their questions and concerns
● Do not share personal contact information with golf mentees including cell phone numbers, social media accounts, emails, addresses, etc.
● Do not contact mentees outside of Watson Links
Setting Goals
Talk to your mentee about clear and achievable goals for their golfing journey. Help them break down larger goals into manageable steps, and celebrate their progress along the way.
Goals might include:
● Playing a full nine holes of golf
● Improving their swing or putting technique
● Achieving a personal best score
● Enhancing their mental game
Provide Guidance and Support
As a mentor, your role is to offer guidance, support, and constructive feedback to your mentee.
● Share your knowledge, but also be a good listener
● Encourage perseverance through challenges and setbacks; it’s a game of recovery
● Celebrate successes big and small
● Lead by example modeling positive characteristics that are intrinsic to the game: discipline, resilience, and sportsmanship.
Have Fun!
Most importantly, have fun and enjoy the experience of mentoring!
● Relax
● Laugh
● Cheer
● Coach