GUEST COLUMN: Essential elements of communication

Communication can simply be defined as, a process of transferring information from one entity to another, and is a vital component to the daily performance of a golf course maintenance operation.  But communication is not limited only to verbal exchanges, it includes listening and visual interactions as well.  Effective communication must be a mastered practice in an assistant superintendent’s arsenal of skills, as golf course maintenance operations have the difficult task of connecting all aspects of a course through effective communication.
 
One of the most important interactions within an assistant’s day is that with the Golf Course Superintendent.  At first glance, only the most basic communication verbal skills are necessary, but one must not overlook the importance of listening.  Active participation in a conversation requires speaking and listening, and to successfully communicate the Golf Course Superintendents commands, you must adequately hear and understand those demands.
 
Reaching all employees effectively and efficiently can be a difficult task.  Differences such as gender, ethnicity, and language barriers can make communication difficult; but for the safety and training of the crew, it is essential.  One way to accomplish this is by thoroughly training the crew, both initially and continuing.  Using a daily job board is not a new concept, but when safety standards for the job are included, it makes this practice unique.  Daily verbal and printed reinforcements help employees to better understand their job and the expected safety standards for that job. Individual safety meetings are also scheduled to enhance training and keep employee’s constantly thinking how to be safe. Instead of reading safety procedures off of a piece of paper, possible use of a Power Point presentation with pictures and real life stories will help get the point across without boring the employee.
 
Clubhouse communication is crucial as well, and this communication must be reciprocal.  Consider having a club wide web based calendar available for access.  Color-coding each department for easier readability is a good idea as well. A turfgrass management calendar will include practices such as aerifying, verticutting, topdressing, chemical applications, and fertilizer applications.  The golf shop calendar, in return, will include course activities such as golf outings, tournaments, and daily play numbers and times.  In addition, daily updates regarding course conditions and maintenance practices should be delivered in person to the golf shop in the morning before golfers arrive.  Food and Beverage operations have quite the busy schedule, so the web based calendar will be efficient for maintenance to view outdoor events that need planning for, such as weddings, outside parties, etc.
 
With this being such a broad subject, these are just a few ideas centered on communication. The sky’s the limit when engaging in and putting together an effective communication strategy. Communication is a constantly evolving and developing skill, and while not all golf courses require the level of communication as described above, at some point in an Assistant Superintendent’s career each of these communication challenges will need to be met.
 

Dustin Peterson is Assistant Superintendent I at  TPC Deere Run in East Moline, Ill.