We all know that some of the most powerful business deals are struck on the golf course. Not only is it a relaxing sport, but it also offers a fantastic platform where people can build on their business relationships. Gone are the days when business people used “golf” simply as an excuse to get out of the office – it is now an essential networking tool in the modern business world.

Playing golf can be compared to running a business: both drive from the front, hard work and practice are essential, and taking responsibility for decisions made is key. Golf is all about precision, and this quality is vital in business, too.

The game is played by many businessmen and women, often as a relaxing forum to “talk shop”. At the same time, your body is getting some essential exercise.

By taking business outside the boardroom, you are stepping into a pool of networking opportunities where you can meet like-minded professionals.

Networking is an important business skill, and with golf networking, it is all about business professionals sharing a common interest. While walking the course, many people make business referrals and introductions to prospective clients.

Even non-golfers can make use of networking on the golf course. You can attend tournaments with business associates and clients as guests.

This allows you to enjoy the beautiful game without even yourself having to play – golf is indeed one of the best spectator sports.

In business, networking is imperative to form and nurture mutually beneficial relationships. You make new connections and are kept updated of new developments and industry players. Mixing networking with an outdoor sport such as golf can only be fun. Both these activities are for your own personal and professional advancement, and practice makes perfect, as they say.

Since 2004, the Vodacom Business Origins of Golf has provided such a networking platform on South Africa’s top golf courses. This annual and prestigious event comprises a series of professional golf tournaments, where amateur golfers are exclusively invited to play with a group of professional golfers.

Romeo Kumalo, executive director: Commercial at Vodacom South Africa, says the Vodacom Business Origins of Golf Tour is the ultimate golf experience. “Vodacom is a world-class converged communications provider.

Our ‘network’ is not simply about configuring technological compatibility. It is about the connectivity of people, being able to connect a group of passionate, empowered people taking risks, pursuing a tough challenge and gaining invaluable knowledge by participating in the ultimate golf experience.”

The Vodacom Business Origins of Golf comprises six tournaments held across six provinces in South Africa. Every year, a different theme is adopted. This year, in honour of golfing legend and icon Ernie “The Big Easy” Els, the theme is “Vodacom Origins goes Easy”.

Vodacom Business customers, stakeholders, key business players and business-savvy celebrities all become involved with the Vodacom Business Origins of Golf.

The setting provides a favourable environment that encourages serious business conversations, matched by the equally serious element of competition.

“Much can be gained from stepping outside of the boardroom, taking time to network and build on personal relationships. It is an opportunity to rub shoulders with your clients and potential clients outside of the business environment – showing that you are making time and effort to get to know not only them on a personal level but the details of their business, too,” says Kumalo.

“We believe that this sort of exercise is vital to building a reputable and trusted name for your business, and this is exactly why Vodacom Business has continued to sponsor the Vodacom Business Origins of Golf for the past six years.”

The tournament provides fertile ground for the exchange of ideas and discussions that invariably help develop future business solutions. “There is no measure for the value of quality time spent with fellow business colleagues in a hospitable environment,” Kumalo says.

Not only does Vodacom Business Origins of Golf provide a chance to witness some of South Africa’s best golfers in action, it gives businessmen and women who are golf enthusiasts the opportunity to pit their own skills against the best in the business.

As part of the networking experience, not only are relationships built upon, but there is the competitiveness of situation too – working together for the common goal of winning, whether it is the golf game or the business deal.

The tournament is demanding, but as any successful businessman, executive or entrepreneur will tell you: a challenge is simply another opportunity on offer.

The final of the Vodacom Business Origins of Golf takes place from 13 to 15 October at Oubaai in George, a course designed by Els.

For more information about this exclusive tournament, visit www.originsgoeseasy.co.za.

Romeo Kumalo is in charge of sales, marketing and new products for
Vodacom South Africa.