Most Guys avoid golf for one of two reasons: They’ve either never tried it, or they’ve found that their complete lack of skill and knowledge results in equal parts humiliation and frustration. Unfortunately, there’s one inescapable fact: You can’t avoid the game forever. At some point, you will be forced into an uncomfortable play-or-die round with your boss, client, or future father-in-law (hopefully, not all at once). But don’t worry. All seasoned players share one thing when it comes to playing with newbies: They don’t care how bad you are, just so long as you keep the game moving and don’t add strokes to their score. Here’s all you need to know to play golf with a pro–without losing your job, your sale, or your girl in the process.
DON’T Stand behind the ball and watch someone swing, even if you’re far enough away to avoid getting whacked with the club. Nothing maddens serious players more than being able to see you out of the corner of their eye, and the only place you can stand and be seen is directly behind the ball (or in front of it, in which case you’re not a distraction, just a fool). Your...