20
April
2022
At BTME, GCMA chief executive Tom Brooke discussed the issue of retention and recruitment in golf clubs. Here, he explains his thoughts and how the Association can respond... I recently spent a couple of very productive days in Harrogate for the annual BTME Conference hosted by our great colleagues at BIGGA. It was good to see some of our members there as well as to touch base with some of our much valued business partners. I was pleased to have been invited to take part in a panel discussion focusing on the current issues facing employees and workforce development at golf clubs. Based on the conversations I’ve received from many of you, as well as what we’re seeing in greenkeeping and catering, we’re certainly right in the middle of a big challenge which I believe is a genuine threat to our industry and our ability to continue serving the recent increase in levels of participation. Within wider society, there’s been a shift in focus around work and life balance since the start of the pandemic and this does appear to be having an impact on recruitment. The cost of living crisis also has a huge part to play and the pressures on golf clubs to keep up with increasing salary demands is a notable challenge for you as Managers as you seek to retain your best staff in the coming years, and try and find a way of affording to do so! We’re also hearing a lot of cases of Managers suffering from mental health challenges or even leaving the industry due to increased pressures and work-related stress levels. As your representative body, this is something we’re treating extremely seriously and looking to do whatever we can to support you and to start putting some steps in place to turn this situation around. We don’t have all the answers immediately, but please get in contact if you’d like to share insights with me, or suggestions as to how we can help. I’d appreciate your call. Do you subscribe to the GCMA's weekly E-newsletter? Make sure you're not missing out on the latest in the world of golf club management. Click here to join in. Please LOGIN to read the full article.
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