By Michelle Grafos, PGA
As I think about my career as a PGA of America Golf Professional, it truly reflects one of our old PGA mottos – “An expert in the game and business of golf.”
As a young professional, I took this to heart not only because I was new but because I wanted to make sure that I was prepared to answer any question or take on any challenge that was put in front of me. Everyone’s path is different, however, and as I reflect back, a few focus points stand out.
First, be a lifelong learner. There are so many amazing opportunities to learn within our organization, community and industry. Regardless of where my MSR points stand, I am always looking for ways to improve and learn. All the manufacturers provide opportunities to learn about equipment and become certified for free. Our Chapters, Sections and even National office offer continuing education, best practices and playbooks to help you succeed as you face new challenges in the industry. Take advantage of those.
Secondly, don’t be afraid to take on a role that you might not be excited about at first. I have watched many young professionals become frustrated with the lack of opportunities for pay or promotion. To this I say, take on those challenges, prove your worth, be a go-getter and create new opportunities.
Teaching, for example, is an amazingly rewarding opportunity right in front of most of us. It also offers significant financial rewards if you invest in becoming a good teacher. People love this game, and we can help them in that journey. Give junior golf a try. It is exceptionally rewarding watching little kids fall in love with the game. If you are unsure about how to get going, I highly recommend the U.S. Kids Golf curriculum. It is affordable and absolutely the best at developing kids in the game. It also makes it easy for you to be successful.
Finally, play the game. The better you are as a professional at the game, the better and more credible you are in the industry. That doesn’t mean play all the time, but use those pro-am opportunities wisely. Create a community of enthusiasm for playing with your clients and customers. Be present in their charity scrambles or local fundraisers. It is so important that people see us loving the game, not just working. And, it helps us keep the fun front and center, even when our jobs are super demanding.
Finding our path as professionals takes many different turns along our journey. Look for opportunity, be a lifelong learner, love the game and don’t be afraid to take a new route.
Michelle Grafos, the 2024 Pacific Northwest PGA Section Youth Player Development Award winner, is the Owner of Michelle Grafos Golf Performance and the PGA of America Director of Player Development at Esmeralda Golf Course in Spokane, Washington.
