Men's Life Today: Expert Q+A

My new boss is a golf fanatic, and I can tell I’m going to get roped into playing one of these days. How can I get my game up-to-speed fast?

The quickest way is to take lessons from a pro. Go to a local golf shop and ask for the name of the best teacher in town. Then go to another golf shop and pose the question again. If you hear the same name twice, you know the referral is a good one.

You can also ask around at a local country club or golf course. Prior to starting lessons, to help get yourself familiar with the game, you might consider purchasing an instructional DVD or book.

Expect to take at least seven lessons to build your knowledge. Cost-wise, you can anticipate $40 to $70 per lesson, with most sessions lasting from a half hour to an hour.

Whether from an instructor or an instruction video, the first thing you’ll learn is PGA (not Professional Golf Association, but Posture, Grip, Alignment). Then you’ll begin working on your swing. In between lessons, you’ll need to go out and practice what you’ve learned.

As a newbie, you should play on a nine-hole golf course rather than an 18-hole one. This will boost your confidence … and stave off possible embarrassment. If there happens to be a beginner course in your area, you can also consider playing there until you become comfortable enough with your ability to take on a regular course -- and your boss.

Once you’re on the greens with the big guy, follow good golf etiquette, which includes staying out of his peripheral vision when he tees off, and not crossing his line of putt. Since you’re just a beginner, the boss is most likely going to win. If you start to pull ahead, you might want to consider fudging some shots every now and again. Decide which game you want to win with your boss -- short-term or long-term -- but never forget to smile, and remember who signs your check.