Bobby Steiner is the Director of Golf Instruction at Horseshoe Bay Resort in Horseshoe Bay, Texas.

Bobby Steiner on the importance of focusing on retention with coaching in small parts:

For over two decades I’ve really enjoyed working with a spouse of a golfer, many new to the game. It happens one of several ways, the main being word of mouth where individual A asks if I could take a look their spouse’s swing, usually new to the game. That gets the excitement rolling. One thing to remember is that you’re looking to get them to come back, time after time, especially if they’re a couple that wants to play together. So I present the game in little bites incrementally, starting with chip shots and short putts, giving them a positive mindset to start out. It’s pretty cool if the lessons are sequential, one getting to see the other work at their craft.

Bobby Steiner on the business impact of focus on retention with coaching in small parts:

I know this is going to be something they can go do together. The game is so hard and there’s so much information, it’s nice to be able to straighten out a golf swing. And when they hit that great chip shot or putt, they are so ecstatic and are asking ME – not their spouse who has been playing for 35 years – when our next session is. Every single one of us wants the same thing out of golf: a good game for our standard. For many just getting going is the goal and taking those little bites has been really effective for me. Four footers instead of 35 footers, the little mini swings – often pitches – and then moving back to eventual full swings. I don’t even worry about fitting the person in year one. Let’s just start a positive conversation and see where this takes you. For me and these couples? Frequently group lessons, group programs, group leagues, partners to fill out a weekend foursome and the students who will fill up our next golf trip offering. Music to my ears.

If you would like to email the author of this Best Practice directly, please email bsteiner@hsbresort.com.