What is it like to be a golf instructor?
A Professional golf instructor is an exciting, constantly challenging occupation. Whether becoming part of an established golf course or operating independently, it does not demand tremendous overhead, and you can get started quickly.
What does a director of golf instruction Do?
The Director of Golf Instruction works with the professional staff in offering golf improvement programs to juniors, women, beginners, and players of all skill levels. One of the reasons golfers quit playing the game is due to frustration in learning to play.
What are the duties of a golf professional?
Those who become golf professionals can fill many shoes throughout their careers. Some are teachers who instruct other players on swing techniques and the mental side of the game. Golf pros also help operate golf-related businesses, manage employees, buy merchandise and oversee maintenance at a club, resort or course.
Do I need a golf teacher?
Every golfer learns differently, and many teachers can pick up on that and adjust their style. However, they are not mind readers, and if something is not coming across clearly just let them know. Additionally, if you feel like you need help in other areas of the game just ask for it.
What are the skills of a golf instructor?
What is the best way to become a golf instructor?
What is a golf education program?
Why do people quit golf?
Why is it important to attend golf conferences?
What is the biggest challenge for a new golf instructor?
What are the different types of golf instructors?
See more
About this website
Is a golf instructor worth it?
Golf lessons are absolutely worth it. You won't become a scratch golfer overnight, but in 10 weeks I shaved six strokes off my handicap by getting regular lessons with a good PGA professional. Lessons are essential for beginners who are trying to learn the basics, and can lay a solid foundation for a good golf swing.
What makes a good golf instructor?
Always Learning And talking of knowledge, a great golf coach never stops learning. "Other coaches do different things and you pick things up from them as well as the players you work with. "You've always got to be looking at players and different techniques and be open to learning because the game is evolving."
Do golf instructors make good money?
While ZipRecruiter is seeing annual salaries as high as $130,000 and as low as $25,500, the majority of GOLF Instructor salaries currently range between $38,500 (25th percentile) to $95,500 (75th percentile) with top earners (90th percentile) making $105,500 annually across the United States.
What do you call a golf instructor?
A golf coach is a person who helps a team or individual COMPETE at golf.
How do I start teaching golf lessons?
How to Teach a Beginner to Swing a Golf ClubGo to a driving range at a local course or to a practice facility with the beginning golfer. ... Demonstrate each step of the golf swing. ... Start with a sound grip. ... Introduce the correct stance and posture. ... Start with short swings at first, one-quarter of the way back.More items...
Should I tip my golf instructor?
Golf instructors provide a service. The service is to help you become a better player. In most service-type businesses, a job well done will receive a tip. If you feel as though the golf lesson that you just took really helped your golf game, then do not hesitate to tip.
Is golf a good career?
Golf pros can earn a living by playing on tour, earning endorsements or teaching the game at a private club or resort course. For many avid golfers, the job of a golf professional seems a dream career. But there is a lot of hard work needed to qualify as a professional, plus a good deal of talent.
Can I make a living playing golf?
Golf can be a great game to play for fun, but it can also be a way for people to make money. Making money as a golfer does not always mean you need to be a scratch golfer. If you are creative and know a good bit about the game and truly enjoy it, you can find ways to make money.
How do you become a PGA instructor?
How to Become a PGA Teaching ProYou must be 18 years of age or have a high school diploma to be eligible. ... You must meet the PGA eligible employment requirements. ... Pass the PAT (Player Ability Test). ... Register to be an apprentice by filling out the apprentice registration form on the PGA website (see References).More items...
How many golf instructors are there?
5,763 Golf InstructorsThere are over 5,763 Golf Instructors currently employed in the United States.
Do pro golfers have coaches?
Just like in football the coaching staffs are getting bigger and bigger, golf has more coaches. The more money players make, the more they can hire specialists to help them in specific areas. The truth is, there aren't many people who can figure it out on their own. So golfers have to find that happy balance.”
How long does it take to become a PGA teaching professional?
The PGA of America allows up to eight years to complete the program—the average is four years. In Canada, passing the PAT is followed by the submission of a membership application and successfully navigating these four courses: Instructor of Beginner Golfers Workshop. Respect in Sport Activity Leader Program.
PGTAA Certification Vs NRPGI | Get Certified Online Through NRPGI
PGTAA Certification Vs NRPGI. Earn Your Golf Pro Certification Through NRPGI National Registry of Professional Golf Instructors® Accredited Home Study Course. Placement Assistance. Learn More.
USGTF vs PGTAA - Instruction and Playing Tips - The Sand Trap .com
You won't learn a lot about how to teach, and a lot of it won't be correct. As with PGA certification, you're paying for a piece of paper, basically, that says you can teach, even if you don't learn a darn thing from the USGTF or PGTAA...
USGTF anyone? - Instruction & Academy - GolfWRX
I also went thru the course back in 2000 and dont even mention it to anyone anymore. You tell them your an instructor and ask if you have played on the PGA tour before and then I try to explain what the USGTF is and then they are confused.
What are the skills of a golf instructor?
The problem may rest in many different areas for each golfer. To be successful, the essential skills of a golf instructor include communication skills, likeability, knowledge, and the ability to encourage and motivate golf students.
What is the best way to become a golf instructor?
Becoming a golf instructor requires a unique blend of an analytical mind and an outgoing personality that works well with people.#N#An analytical mind helps to make judgments on a golfer’s swing and come up with a lesson plan that addresses their primary difficulties.#N#An effusive personality helps because people respond to training when they feel the instructor understands their unique situation and is ready to work with them closely to build the correct skills and outline steps to improvement.#N#This does not mean that you have to be an entertainer.
What is a golf education program?
In a formal golf educational program, you will avail yourself of training and instruction from expert golf professionals who have experience in the field and classroom. You will learn all facets of the golf industry and if teaching the game is of special interest, you will build a foundation of coaching and teaching that propels you into the golf instruction market with the tools to be successful. Taking lessons from an individual who “learned on their own” is never good advice. Would you hire a general contractor to build your new home who “learned on his own”? I would guess you would prefer someone with the credentials and education to get your house built the right way. There is no better place to get started in a golf career than the Keiser University College of Golf and Sport Management program. The College of Golf offers associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs for individuals who want to make a difference in the golf industry.
Why do people quit golf?
One of the reasons golfers quit playing the game is due to frustration in learning to play. A competent golf instructor mitigates these challenges and significantly improves the new student’s ability to learn the game. Too many golfers try to learn on their own or through a friend or colleague. The ultimate goal for the Director of Golf Instruction is growing golf participation, and with improved golf skills, studies show that golfers will play more golf!
Why is it important to attend golf conferences?
Attend golf camps and conferences. There are two benefits to attending golf conferences: – Knowledge and skills. You will learn a ton at sessions. – Contacts. Some people believe this is more important: you make lots of good contacts in casual settings outside the conference meetings.
What is the biggest challenge for a new golf instructor?
The biggest challenge for a new golf instructor is not knowing what to do with a student or how to help them get better. The problem is getting a potential student to sign up for a lesson. Growing your teaching business involves three distinct pillars of marketing. The first step is to build your customer base. The second step is to get your existing customers to come back after their initial lesson. Finally, an appropriate pricing strategy must be established that is focused on your core audience.
What are the different types of golf instructors?
Two Types. There are generally two types of golf instructors: – Club professional. Traditionally, the club professional was responsible for giving lessons, repairing clubs, working in the pro shop, ordering merchandise and selling product.
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How much does a golf instructor make?
Golf Instructors in America make an average salary of $29,936 per year or $14 per hour. The top 10 percent makes over $86,000 per year, while the bottom 10 percent under $10,000 per year.
What is a golf instructor?
Golf instructors work as either independent contractors or are employed with a club, hotel or resort. They are highly successful and technically skilled golfers who have an aptitude for conveying technique and gameplay through verbal instruction and physical demonstrations. They understand weaknesses in a student's game, and will instruct and guide the student in order to make improvements. Golf instructors working for a club or resort may also have additional responsibilities including managing assistant instructors, supervising caddies, managing the club's pro shop, and informing the groundskeepers about turf problems.
What is a professional golfer?
A professional golfer, on the other hand, is someone who plays golf for a living, playing on major tours such as the PGA tour.
What does a Golf Pro do?
Golf pros can fall into one of three main categories: touring professional, club professional, or instructor.
What is the workplace of a Golf Pro like?
In addition to walking and climbing hills, golf pros must sometimes carry heavy bags with clubs and other equipment .
What are the different types of golf pros?
Golf pros fall into any of three main professions: touring professional, club professional and instructor. Each profession has its own requirements, responsibilities and degrees of technical skill. Generally, golfers who do not succeed at becoming touring professionals take on positions as club professionals or instructors. All professions call for daily involvement in the sport along with knowledge of correct techniques and the rules of the game.
What is a touring professional?
Touring professionals are the professional golfers seen on television, traveling internationally to compete in major golf tournaments. They compete for money and earn additional income from their sponsors. Often touring professionals become famous and can be seen in magazine and television commercials, supporting their sponsors. Only the very best and most talented golfers make it to this level after years of dedicating their lives to the sport of golf.
Why do golf clubs close in winter?
Even club professionals who spend most of their time indoors must often close the club during the winter due to a lack of customers.
What is the job of a golf pro?
Golf Pro Job Description. Some golf professionals instruct players on swing techniques, but that is just one of their many possible duties. Those who become golf professionals can fill many shoes throughout their careers. Some are teachers who instruct other players on swing techniques and the mental side of the game.
What education do you need to be a golfer?
Qualifications. Most jobs require golf pros to have a high school diploma and some college education. There are some golf facilities that even require their golf professionals to have college degrees. Some professionals are typically required to earn certification through the United States Golf Teaching Federation.
What are golf pros expected to do?
Golf pros are expected to work early-morning hours and spend a lot of time on their feet. They must also be in good physical condition, both to do their jobs and to set an example for staff and players. They are also expected to work weekends and holidays when the weather is nice for golf.
What are the attributes of a golfer?
One of the major attributes that a golf professional must possess is the ability to work with people. Golf pros must be able to manage and work with salespeople, groundskeepers and maintenance workers effectively and with respect. They must also be able to work with the public, assisting them with their golfing needs and teaching them ...
What is required to become a golf professional?
Some golf professionals are required to have a valid drivers license and to be certified in first-aid and CPR.
What are the benefits of being a golf pro?
The one overriding benefit to being a golf pro is the environment: working under sunny skies at a golf facility around people who are enjoying themselves can be an ideal atmosphere.
Why do we need golf lessons?
Golf lessons are arguably the most efficient way to improve as a golfer. The main vehicle to scoring in this game is your golf swing, and there isn’t a golfer on the planet who does not need help. This website was actually founded so that you can get advice on every other part of the game, which I believe to be equally important. However, for this article I wanted to discuss when it makes sense to take a golf lesson.
Why do I laugh when I play golf?
You might laugh because I possibly just described a large part of the golfing public. The hard truth is that if you fall into that category, and are on a downward spiral in your game, it probably makes sense to see someone who can help. If you continue without any real focus or plan, it might permanently damage your enjoyment of the game and make you want to quit.
What to do if your golf game is sick?
If your golf game is sick, see a doctor.
Is there a shortage of golfers who are willing to look at your swing?
I am always joking on Twitter about the things I have overheard at the driving range over the years. There is no shortage of golfers who are willing to look at your swing and offer what they believe is the fix.
Can golf swings play tricks?
The point I want to make is that the golf swing can play tricks on you. Players generally don’t have a great idea of what their mechanics are, and what are the best ways to fix them. It’s not to say that you can’t improve your swing by yourself, but I believe it makes sense to work with a teacher at some point if your goal is to truly improve. Think of it as an audit or a tuneup of your golf swing.
Is it possible to diagnose a golf swing?
It takes a lot of experience and training to properly diagnose a golf swing. When that guy tells you what the fix is for your slice, I would be willing to bet a large sum of money that he is wrong. His answer might actually make your swing even worse.
Can a swing instructor help golfers?
With any profession there are going to be good, better, and best – but that doesn’t mean they can’t help .
What does a golf instructor teach?
Golf Instructors teach players about the rules, regulations, and specifics of the game of golf. At the end of the day, don’t neglect your sport behind all the professional fluff: judging tournaments, knowing the rules and keeping up with recent sports developments is important.
What should a golf instructor's resume include?
Your resume should contain a stand-out Profile section that lists your greatest attributes, impressive career accomplishments, and intentions as a Golf Instructor .
What is a sports degree?
Sports professions are more about experience and mastery than they are about a long formal education. However, having a general degree in your field shows dedication, discipline and a strong foundation of knowledge, so don’t skip this section altogether. Moreover, certifications, awards and honors are great ways to strengthen your professional image. You can list them here OR create a separate Certifications/Awards resume section if your list is medium-sized or long.
Is golf a rare profession?
Golf instructor is a rare profession. Great instructors, masters of their sport that clients love to learn from - they are even less common. This is exactly the type of professional that is sought by elite and prestigious clubs, resorts and premium hotels. Not to mention - successful and wealthy clients.
What is a pro golfer?
A PGA club pro is responsible for the golf course's day-to-day operations. Duties include organizing and communicating tee time policies, working out the details of club competitions and tournaments -- both among the members and for outside corporate groups -- insuring a good pace of play by training and supervising starters and monitors, and supervising other members of the golf staff.
Why is it important to be a club pro?
It's an essential duty of a club pro to get to know the members as both people and as golfers. By relating well to the members, a club pro creates a harmonious atmosphere that's also conducive to a successful career.
What is a PGA pro?
Instructor. A PGA club pro is trained to be an excellent instructor. She must be able to relate to golfers of differing ages, genders, abilities and personalities. Many excellent teachers and coaches come from the ranks of PGA club pros, and they sometimes branch out and become full-time instructors and coaches.
Who is Jim Thomas?
Jim Thomas has been a freelance writer since 1978. He wrote a book about professional golfers and has written magazine articles about sports, politics, legal issues, travel and business for national and Northwest publications.
What are the skills of a golf instructor?
The problem may rest in many different areas for each golfer. To be successful, the essential skills of a golf instructor include communication skills, likeability, knowledge, and the ability to encourage and motivate golf students.
What is the best way to become a golf instructor?
Becoming a golf instructor requires a unique blend of an analytical mind and an outgoing personality that works well with people.#N#An analytical mind helps to make judgments on a golfer’s swing and come up with a lesson plan that addresses their primary difficulties.#N#An effusive personality helps because people respond to training when they feel the instructor understands their unique situation and is ready to work with them closely to build the correct skills and outline steps to improvement.#N#This does not mean that you have to be an entertainer.
What is a golf education program?
In a formal golf educational program, you will avail yourself of training and instruction from expert golf professionals who have experience in the field and classroom. You will learn all facets of the golf industry and if teaching the game is of special interest, you will build a foundation of coaching and teaching that propels you into the golf instruction market with the tools to be successful. Taking lessons from an individual who “learned on their own” is never good advice. Would you hire a general contractor to build your new home who “learned on his own”? I would guess you would prefer someone with the credentials and education to get your house built the right way. There is no better place to get started in a golf career than the Keiser University College of Golf and Sport Management program. The College of Golf offers associate, bachelor’s, and master’s degree programs for individuals who want to make a difference in the golf industry.
Why do people quit golf?
One of the reasons golfers quit playing the game is due to frustration in learning to play. A competent golf instructor mitigates these challenges and significantly improves the new student’s ability to learn the game. Too many golfers try to learn on their own or through a friend or colleague. The ultimate goal for the Director of Golf Instruction is growing golf participation, and with improved golf skills, studies show that golfers will play more golf!
Why is it important to attend golf conferences?
Attend golf camps and conferences. There are two benefits to attending golf conferences: – Knowledge and skills. You will learn a ton at sessions. – Contacts. Some people believe this is more important: you make lots of good contacts in casual settings outside the conference meetings.
What is the biggest challenge for a new golf instructor?
The biggest challenge for a new golf instructor is not knowing what to do with a student or how to help them get better. The problem is getting a potential student to sign up for a lesson. Growing your teaching business involves three distinct pillars of marketing. The first step is to build your customer base. The second step is to get your existing customers to come back after their initial lesson. Finally, an appropriate pricing strategy must be established that is focused on your core audience.
What are the different types of golf instructors?
Two Types. There are generally two types of golf instructors: – Club professional. Traditionally, the club professional was responsible for giving lessons, repairing clubs, working in the pro shop, ordering merchandise and selling product.
Gold Instructor Responsibilities
- Golf instructors usually work one-on-one with their clients or with small groups, usually up to four people. The teaching process itself is relatively straightforward. Explaining and correcting the technique, going from one hole to the next, etc. There are a few important things to consider, such as the rent costs. Unless you work for a club or gol...
Golf Instructor Salary
- While salaries vary depending on the country, we will list the US data as the reference. Keep in mind that the average annual wage in the US is about $50,000, and median yearly wage is about $35,000. The average certified instructor makes around $44,000 up to $65,000. It is a solid salary, accounting for all the benefits the job itself brings. It will take some time to grind from the lowes…
Where to Find A Job
- Experienced instructors usually have networks of clients. For the first job, it is sensible to visit a hiring website and look for positions there. At the time of writing this article, there are over 80,000 vacancies for golf coaches, with 25,000 of them opened over the last week. It is a good starting point and will give you a good overview of the industry and particular job requirements for your c…
Career Prospects
- Golf is not just a sport. For many, it is a leisure and a philosophy in some sense. It means there is unlikely to be a shortage of students that are willing to pay for a good coach and a course. But this is not the ceiling of the opportunities. Knowledgeable professionals may coach not just private clients, but even PGA Tourstars. It is also natural for an experienced coach to train others to be i…
Ideas & Suggestions
- Many guides offer advice on training as a golf coach. Most of them suggest taking a PGA (Professional Golf Association) certification. But this is expensive certification to get, albeit a prestigious one. Instead, look for local golf teachers’ associations. Their certificates are as good for the place they are given in and magnitudes of order easier to get. For example, in the USA the…
Helpful Experience and Skills
- As with every coaching job, experience is required. You have to be a good player before teaching others, but that alone is not enough. Any teaching experience will help in this sense, even better if it is sports coaching. Scheduling and some accounting will make it easier to keep track of all the students and course reservations.
Conclusion
- Working as a golf instructor is a dream job for many: combining a passion for a sport with a secure career. It is not easy to get, with certification and a need for experience, but the merits are worth it.