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Alex Elias  Courtesy of Jon Cavalier (@LinksGems) How has your background influenced your perspective on the value of networking and mentorship?
I graduated from the PGA Professional Golf Management Program at Penn State University and networking and mentorship were instilled from the beginning. There was always a major emphasis on connecting with the alumni and I quickly understood how important of a factor it was in getting a job and learning from a Head Golf Professional. Reflecting on your time at various clubs, who is one mentor that stands out to you and why? Pat Gunning is a great mentor of mine. I have always been infatuated with how the membership is wrapped around his finger. I remember asking him, "How are you so good at talking with members?" and he responded, "You should always go up to every member and act like they're the most important part of your day." That message has really stuck with me. If you care about your membership and take the time to stop by the range or stand at the first tee to ask members how their families are doing, it'll go a long way. What is one key lesson from a mentor that you apply to your daily routine? There's many, but before I knew anything about teaching, I always thought lessons were all about X's and O's, club path, face angle, etc. I've learned that not everyone responds the same way and by having watched different Head Golf Professionals, I've learned how to interact and read members during a lesson. What is one piece of advice you would offer to current PGA Professional Golf Management Program students? I have a few. First, when you're looking for an internship, apply to clubs with Head Professionals that you know have a strong reputation. You want to work at club where you can learn from a mentor. Next, during each internship, take the time to reflect on what you like and want to institute from each Head Professional and just as importantly, what you might not want to institute. Lastly, you never know when someone from your past may be able to open a door for you. Even if it's someone you met once five years ago, stay in touch with them. For those outside the golf industry, what message would you share about the importance of networking and mentorship? Go outside your comfort zone. Wherever you're located, you should always be trying to meet people in your industry - whether it's asking them to grab a drink, go to dinner, or golf. In my eyes, if you meet one person, then you're going to meet three others. The more you can put yourself out there, the more successful you'll be.
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