How to Get a Job in Golf

Watch television when a major golf tournament is under way, and you'll see advertisements sponsored by companies that are somehow connected to golf, whether they are golf ball or club manufacturers, resort communities that feature golf or airlines that are anxious to book your next flight to a place that's noted for golf. There are numerous jobs relating to golf, but you need to decide which end of the sport you want to pursue.

Unless you're the next Tiger Woods, look for opportunities beyond making a lot of money on the professional tour. There are fewer than a thousand players who make it to a tour, and not all of them make a fortune at the game. The odds of making a living as a professional golfer are slim, so most golf lovers should consider other jobs that are related to the sport. Golf course superintendents, for example, are responsible for the upkeep of golf courses, so if you have an interest in agronomy and you enjoy being outside, that's a job you could consider.

Get an education in the golf-related field you wish to pursue. Working your way up from a job cleaning clubs is a thing of the past. If you want to have a career in golf, you'll need to get a formal education. If you are interested in sales, there are courses at the local community college or university that can prepare you for sales jobs at local pro shops and sporting goods stores. In years past, a pro shop made money almost by default; today, it must compete with the Internet and large sporting good stores to be successful.

If the idea of managing a country club appeals to you, finding an entry-level job at a country club is a good introduction to the business. From there, college courses in personnel management, accounting and building maintenance can expand your knowledge of the business aspects of the job you aspire to. Once you have decided where your talents lie, go to various websites that specialize in golf-related job opportunities (see Resources).