Research by the English Golf Union (EGU) and English Women’s Golf Association (EWGA) has highlighted that clubs are keen to receive further support to recruit and retain members. As a result the EGU and EWGA are providing a renewed focus promoting their Recruitment and Retention Toolkit.
Launched earlier this year the Recruitment and Retention Toolkit has already proved to be an invaluable resource with over 400 clubs purchasing the publication and another 450 accessing the free online version since May 2009.
The Recruitment and Retention Toolkit is a comprehensive, adaptable guide that includes best practice examples and templates providing practical guidance. The Toolkit also contains the EGU and EWGA ‘Tee to Green’ Introductory Programme and ‘Welcome Booklets’, both of which are resources that can be used by clubs to provide additional support for new member golfers.
The growing network of 31 County Golf Partnerships throughout England is also committed to supporting recruitment and retention through their county development plans. Several Partnerships have purchased each of their clubs a Toolkit and direct assistance from County and Regional Development Officers can help clubs implement new activity and initiatives.
Maintaining and increasing membership has been a challenge for many clubs. Yet of those golf clubs who have seen an increase in their membership over the last 2 years, 80% have taken advantage of one or more EGU/EWGA development initiatives, demonstrating the value of these programmes.
Richard Flint, EGU/EWGA Golf Development Manager, commented “Through the work of the Development team we have been able to bring together a number of recruitment and retention examples that have already proved to be successful. Now golf clubs can select which resources and ideas they want to use and adapt the information to best suit their needs. With on the ground support from the Development Officers, clubs now have a great opportunity to offer attractive and sustainable packages to existing and new members.”
All sections of the Recruitment and Retention Toolkit can be viewed online at www.golfclubtoolkit.org where a printed version can be also be purchased. Details of Regional Development Officers can be found at www.englishgolfunion.org