How social media works for you

Social media is a mainstay in the turf industry. Companies, courses and individuals have turned to this form of communication to bring relevant timely information to customers and members, as well as for information gathering. I’ll take an inside look into how individuals and companies are using social media, as well as what advice they have for those who haven’t started their journey. I’ll talk to superintendents, assistants, interns, industry partners, media and architects. You name it, I’ll bring you their story.

First up is an assistant superintendent pair at Westham Golf Club in Moseley, Va., Chad Karr and Zac Vander Goot. They come from opposite ends of the social media spectrum. Chad never thought about social media. In fact, at one point, he created a Twitter account and after a bit, deleted it. Now, he’s not sure how he’d get through the day would without it. Zac is a bit different. Growing up in the connected generation, he’s a regular on social media, and just starting in the turf industry.
 

What were your initial thoughts on social media?

Chad: I did not see the practical use of using social media outlets and how they could possibly be used for benefits of turf management individuals and courses.

Zac: I am part of the social media generation, and have used social media on a personal level for as long as I can remember.

What got you to start using it?

Chad: I started to use social media after being told about how other turf managers used it to collaborate on ideas and practices.

Zac: I was asked to run the Facebook, Twitter and Instagram accounts for Westham Golf Club as soon as I started working here. From a business standpoint, there is nothing better than the advertising that comes from social media. I have since become more involved with using my personal Twitter with a turf manager’s mind-set because Chad showed me the benefits.

What are your uses of social media now? What do you use it for? What platforms do you use?

Chad: I use Twitter almost exclusively. On Twitter, I showcase the conditions of the current course and the construction of the new nine. This helps with exposure for both my course and my entire turf management team. There are countless superintendents and assistants using Twitter; the community is very tight-knit, with an incredible wealth of knowledge. Every day, I use Twitter to view #VATurf, if I am not actively posting myself.

Zac: I use Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to boost knowledge of my course. This ranges from upcoming events, course conditions, and special deals and giveaways. I use my personal Twitter now to view how other turf managers, both around the area and around the world handle the conditions at their courses.

Often, I see ideas I believe could be put into practice at my golf course to improve efficiency or health of my turf. The community on Twitter is astounding and the camaraderie among turf managers is inspiring. Superintendents often post their struggles and successes on their courses, and the community is always supportive.
 

What advice would you give to someone not sure if they should use it?

Chad: I was hesitant at first, but now I see social media is an invaluable asset for turf management individuals.

Zac: I would encourage anyone that does not use social media to try it. The learning curve to becoming an active member of the social media society is minimal, and it has massive returns.

Social media is a great way to get your golf course more publicity, as well as show your personal knowledge to both your followers and other turf management professionals.

If you are looking to begin your venture into social media or looking to see if you are indeed getting a return from your investment, the team at Turf Republic is glad to assist.

Bill Brown, CGCS, is CEO of Turf Republic and founder of iTurf Apps. Bill has spent 20 years on golf courses, including the last 5 years at Hartefeld National Golf Club. He’s served as an officer and board of director for the Philadelphia Association of Golf Course Superintendents, as well as served on national committees. Contact him at billbrown@turfrepublic.com.