So I’m sitting in one of my half-day educational seminars (about career issues) at the 2008 Golf Industry Show, when this guy poses a question about interviewing. He tells a story about how he was one of the final five candidates for a superintendent position. One of the other candidates for the position had presented the search committee with a portfolio of information about what he would do with the golf course: improvements, ideas and other possible projects. All the candidates had walked the golf course the day before each of their respective interviews, so all photos had to have been taken less than 24 hours before this interview. He was amazed because this guy put this together in one evening. To quote, “He must’ve been up all night.” His big question, “How am I supposed to compete with something like that?”
How could he be so amazed to find a guy going to this length to obtain a position? Doesn’t he know this is becoming a much more common practice? That was my initial reaction to the question. But after a little time for reflection, I realized many people aren’t aware of what could, or better yet, needs to be done to get that job. I’ve had the luxury of working at bigger facilities, with numerous assistants, superintendents and managers, where we could talk about career issues, resumes, interviewing, tips for success and career goals. But not everyone, maybe most, haven’t had that opportunity.
This isn’t an excuse for not putting together a plan of action for a search committee, or whatever other steps you need to take to get that job, or interview, or promotion. This is simply the realization that you need to do your homework. How many of you that haven’t gotten the job have been out networking with peers? Have you consulted with the GCSAA or a career coach? Have you talked with your general manager about what they’ve experienced in the past? These are just a few options available to you to help with the entire job search process.
Our industry is a competitive field. That’s not my opinion, it’s a reality. As an assistant superintendent, I’m always on the lookout for a good superintendent position. Obviously, I haven’t found one yet. For a while, I always would blame something else. I’d say: “The market is oversaturated. Clubs don’t give a fair shake to assistant superintendents. I’m in a bad market. Blah, blah, blah.” But the truth is, I haven’t done enough. I could network more, I could write an article, play more golf, whatever. It’s time to quit blaming others and start taking responsibility for my own actions and career.
I know there are people who’ve done everything possible to obtain that job, and still haven’t found success. And I know many other industries don’t have to go to the lengths that the maintenance side of golf world must go through. These are all facts of life, and sometimes it doesn’t seem fair. That’s life! If you’re not where you want to be, it’s time to take a step back, evaluate each little step you taken, and find what you’ve missed. I know that’s where I’m at right now. Everyone can do more to enhance their career opportunities. I’m confident that when I finally finish the career puzzle that I’m working on, my patience and perseverance will pay off. And if you stop and perform a truthful evaluation, you’ll find what you are seeking too. GCI
Scott Hillyard is an assistant superintendent at Lake Shore Country Club in Glencoe, Ill.
