How can you create a more welcoming environment for female golfers at your course?

2 Provide gender-neutral facilities and amenities

Another way to make female golfers feel more welcome is to provide facilities and amenities that are gender-neutral and accessible. For example, you could ensure that your restrooms, locker rooms, and showers are clean, well-stocked, and spacious enough for both men and women. You could also offer rental clubs, carts, and bags that are suitable for different sizes and skill levels, and have a variety of apparel, accessories, and equipment options in your pro shop. Additionally, you could provide complimentary water, snacks, sunscreen, and wipes at your tee boxes, and have friendly and helpful staff on hand to assist your female customers.

3 Adjust your course layout and policies

A third way to create a more welcoming environment for female golfers is to adjust your course layout and policies to accommodate different playing styles and abilities. For example, you could offer multiple tee options, including forward tees, that are clearly marked and measured for both men and women. You could also modify your course rating and slope, your handicap system, and your pace of play guidelines to reflect the diversity of your customers. Furthermore, you could encourage mixed-gender groups, allow flexible tee times, and provide discounts or incentives for female golfers.

4 Educate and train your staff

A fourth way to make female golfers feel more welcome is to educate and train your staff on how to provide excellent customer service and respect to all golfers. For example, you could conduct regular workshops, seminars, or webinars on topics such as gender equity, diversity, and inclusion in golf, and how to communicate effectively and professionally with female customers. You could also invite guest speakers, experts, or mentors from the golf industry or the women's community to share their insights and experiences with your staff. Moreover, you could reward and recognize your staff for their positive performance and feedback from your female customers.

5 Solicit and act on feedback

A fifth way to create a more welcoming environment for female golfers is to solicit and act on feedback from your customers and stakeholders. For example, you could use surveys, interviews, focus groups, or online platforms to collect and analyze data on your female customers' satisfaction, preferences, expectations, and suggestions. You could also create a customer advisory board, a suggestion box, or a comment card system to encourage and facilitate dialogue and interaction with your female customers. Furthermore, you could implement and monitor changes and improvements based on your feedback, and communicate and celebrate your achievements and challenges with your customers and staff.

6 Showcase and support female golfers

A sixth way to create a more welcoming environment for female golfers is to showcase and support female golfers in your course and in the golf community. For example, you could feature and profile female golfers, staff, leaders, or role models on your website, social media, and newsletters, and share their stories, tips, and advice with your customers. You could also sponsor or participate in local, regional, or national events, initiatives, or campaigns that promote and celebrate female golfers, such as Women's Golf Day, Girls Golf, or LPGA. Additionally, you could donate or volunteer for causes or organizations that support female golfers, such as The First Tee, The Golf Foundation, or The R&A.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?