Continuous Improvement: Reflect on Your Journey for Future Success
Every time you travel with your members, it's an opportunity to create unforgettable experiences and to learn valuable lessons along the way. Especially with your first trip, there’s no avoiding the fact that it’s a learning experience. From the itinerary to the group dynamics, every detail offers insights into what worked, what didn’t, and how to make the next trip even better.
By taking the time to reflect and document those lessons, you’ll not only raise the bar for your next expedition but also create a smoother, more rewarding experience for yourself and your members.
Key Questions to Consider
After the trip, ask yourself (and your members) these essential questions to evaluate the experience:
- Pre-departure:
- What could have been improved in terms of planning and preparation?
- Were communications with members clear and effective?
- If you hosted pre-trip events, how could they be improved?
- Itinerary:
- Did you schedule the right amount of golf? Was it too much or not enough?
- Did a full day off the course work well, or was it needed?
- If you played on arrival day, did it enhance the trip or create challenges?
- Good Life:
- Did the balance between golf and sightseeing feel right?
- Were the dining and cultural experiences memorable enough, or did your members desire more from them?
- Group Dynamics:
- Who brought energy and camaraderie to the group?
- Were there any members who detracted from the experience and might not be a good fit for future trips?
- Lessons from the Clubs:
- Did you notice anything at the clubs you visited that could inspire changes or improvements at your own club back home?
Zack Sweet, PGA with his Cape Cod National Golf Club members at The Bushmills Inn.
Why Documenting Matters
This process is only as valuable as the notes you take. Documenting your observations—ideally at the end of each day while details are fresh—ensures that no insight gets overlooked.
Besides benefiting you, it also helps us at H&B refine future trips for your club. Pair your feedback with the survey responses we’ll gather from your members, and we’ll have a wealth of information to create an even better experience next time.
How to Put it to Practice
- Take Notes Daily: A quick recap at the end of each day can help you capture important details you might otherwise forget. It doesn't have to be fancy: just jot some thoughts in the notepad app on your phone.
- Share Feedback with H&B: Collaborate with us by sharing your notes and reflections. We’ll combine them with member surveys to tailor your next trip even more precisely.
- Apply What You Learn: Treat each trip as an opportunity for continuous improvement. Whether it’s adjusting the itinerary, rethinking group dynamics, or fine-tuning the balance of activities, every insight can make a difference.
The keys to building a successful travel program at your club are not much different than practicing to improve your game. By documenting what worked and what didn’t, you’ll not only elevate your next trip but also build a stronger foundation for your future expeditions.
Take the time to reflect, share your insights with us, and watch as each trip gets better than the last.
More Pro Tips
Begin Your Journey Here
To learn more about the PGA Professionals Travel Program from Haversham & Baker, simply complete the form below or ask one of your colleagues on this list.