New Jacket & Tie required...

backwoodsman

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Have been wanting to get into a club for a while, and have been waiting a bit - have but just got word I've been invited to interview in front of the membership committee.

As it's my first interview of any kind in twenty odd years or so, I have to say it's a bit of a daunting prospect...

I can guess the sort of thing they're likely to ask me, but anyone got any ideas what I should ask them? (I've a few things in my mind to ask but am fearful I might miss the obvious - so any and all suggestions appreciated).
 
Ask them if any of the ladies section are fit?


I would ask about the management of the course, if there are any restrictions in your playing rights perhaps for ladies and junior comps.

You could ask about other members of your family joining if this is relevant.
 
I agree with Brendy. Be yourself. Maybe prepare some questions asking about competition formats, practice facilities, how new members can get a game etc so it shows willing.

I'm sure if you make the right noises about the state of the course and clubhouse, ask about their plans for the future etc you'll be fine. Let us know how it went
 
The one thing I'm sure of is that they are not particularly short of members - I think I'm sort of lucky that my application has fallen bang on the recession. I know they are looking to "top up" a few vacancies rather than recruit hordes of new folks.

I have in mind to ask about comps - are they drawn rather than self selected. What about roll-ups/swindles? Social membership for the missus? And as I'll only be let through the doors - initially - as a temporary member, will there be any restrictions.

But if you folks have other suggestions....
 
Just remember that the club has got to suit your needs. the interview should be more of a information giving exercise.

When i joined i wanted to know about things like getting my Handicap, practice, facilities, entering comps, social side. what sections they had, how easy was it to get on the course if i fancied playing at short notice, can i bring guests.

What most clubs dont want are people who just turn up play golf and go home, they want people to use the facilities and to be social and intergrate.

Make a list of what your needs are and take it with you.
 
What club is it mate?

Dulwich & Sydenham Hill.

I like the course which has always been in good nick when I've been there. It's damned handy for getting to, both from work & home (a bit of a rarity in London when you live in SE and work close to the centre). Also easy enough to get home without the car - for them occasions when its not strictly tea-total.

It ticks most of my boxes - but ain't cheap. Even in these times, the joining fee is 2x the annual fee - and annual fee is still in 4 figures...

Thanks for the hints all...
 
I've played it several times (going way back ) and it was always in great nick. Not long but tight and very good greens (quick but lots of subtle borrows). It is an expensive club though (given its locale etc) but a good one that tries to do things the right way. It did use to be a bit formal but I'm guessing its moved forward in the 15 or so years since I was last there.
 
I've played it several times (going way back ) and it was always in great nick. Not long but tight and very good greens (quick but lots of subtle borrows). It is an expensive club though (given its locale etc) but a good one that tries to do things the right way. It did use to be a bit formal but I'm guessing its moved forward in the 15 or so years since I was last there.

Still a pretty fair assessment of the place Homer. They are also willing to make changes/improvements (and doing them) to keep the holes competitive. As to the formality, that's one of the things I'm hoping to find out.
 
Nice course mate. Not too long but not very forgiving. Opening par 3 down the hill needs good club selection. Too long and you are on Lady Sainsbury's doorstep :o. Short 18th but tough hole.

Have you yet sat out on the terrace and watched the sun setting the west of London while watching the lights coming on all over London? Pure magic.

Almost certainly the best choice in the area unless you want to come a little bit further south. If you want any feedback on other courses in the area, PM me. I've played a lot of them :)
 
Nice course mate. Not too long but not very forgiving. Opening par 3 down the hill needs good club selection. Too long and you are on Lady Sainsbury's doorstep :o. Short 18th but tough hole.

Have you yet sat out on the terrace and watched the sun setting the west of London while watching the lights coming on all over London? Pure magic.

Almost certainly the best choice in the area unless you want to come a little bit further south. If you want any feedback on other courses in the area, PM me. I've played a lot of them :)

Ta. I agree, the view from the terrace has to be one of the best in the whole of London and is almost worth the fees alone. One of my other thoughts was at your gaff - especially as I thought perhaps I might know someone who might sign the proposal form. (If this doesn't work out, I may be in touch...)

What is really swinging me towards it is that I live in Lewisham and work in Battersea - and I really want somewhere I can readily get to after work as well as at weekends. If it were just for weekends, I think I would be also looking at some of the more southward courses.
 
What's the travel time from work to Dulwich and are you driving. If so have you had a look at Wimbledon Common, Wimbledon Park or even Malden

Unfortunately, Homer, all three are in the wrong direction. Wouldn't take too long from work but as regards home they are a real arsey journey - especially for the weekends. Not that far as the crow flies but a real pain travelling across town. Shame as I've played and like all three. I thought about them - more so the Scottish (who I know are looking for members) than Wimbledom Common I have to say though.
 
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