Joshua Galyon
Vikrum Aiyer is a public policy and communications leader whose experience spans climate technology, government, and innovation-focused industries. Currently leading global public policy at Heirloom Carbon Inc., he oversees policy initiatives, government partnerships, and public engagement efforts while supporting workforce development and industry collaboration. Aiyer has also advised technology and energy companies and previously held leadership roles at Uber/Postmates, where he worked on government relations and strategic communications. His public service includes positions in President Obama’s administration at the White House and the Department of Commerce. With a background in policy, leadership, and public engagement, he offers a perspective that aligns with discussions of shared responsibility, professionalism, and respect, qualities that are also central to golf etiquette.
Golf Etiquette Everyone Should Know
Golf is a game of integrity, patience, and self-control. Unlike in many sports, players usually call penalties on themselves and share the course with strangers for several hours at a time. For this reason, etiquette is an integral part of the game. Good etiquette keeps play moving, protects the course, and helps everyone enjoy the experience, whether they are beginners or experienced players.
One of the most important principles in golf etiquette is pace of play. Slow rounds frustrate golfers and can create backups across an entire course. The United States Golf Association advises players to keep up with the group in front of them rather than simply staying ahead of the group behind. Ready golf, in which players hit when prepared rather than according to a predefined order, has become increasingly encouraged in recreational play. Ready golf speeds up rounds without affecting fairness.
Small habits also help. Players should limit practice swings, prepare clubs before reaching the ball, and move quickly between holes. Many public courses now struggle with rounds lasting more than four hours, making efficient play an important issue for golfers and course operators alike.
Respect for the course is another major part of etiquette. Golf courses require constant maintenance, and players are expected to minimize damage whenever possible. When a club removes a chunk of grass from the fairway, known as a divot, golfers should replace the turf or fill the spot with sand provided by the course. On the greens, balls can leave small dents called pitch marks. Repairing them with a divot tool helps keep putting surfaces smooth and healthy.
Bunkers require attention too. After hitting from a sand trap, players should rake the sand so the next golfer does not face footprints or uneven lies. These customs are not merely traditions; course superintendents note that unrepaired damage can weaken turf and increase maintenance costs over time.
Maintaining silence and awareness during shots is equally important. Golf demands concentration and precise coordination, especially during swings and putts. Sudden movement, conversation, or noise near a player can disrupt focus. For that reason, golfers are expected to stand still and remain quiet while others prepare to hit. Phones should usually be silenced and conversations kept low near tees and greens.
Safety also matters. Players should never hit until the group ahead is safely out of range, since golf balls can travel at dangerous speeds capable of causing serious injury.
Etiquette extends beyond the swing itself. Players commonly shake hands after rounds, acknowledge good shots, and treat partners respectfully regardless of skill level. Dress codes vary by course, but clean and practical clothing is generally expected. Beginners are not required to know every rule, yet showing consideration and willingness to learn is often appreciated more than playing well.
Golf etiquette reflects the broader values of sportsmanship and shared public space. The traditions surrounding pace, respect, and courtesy developed over centuries because they make the game more enjoyable for everyone. A golfer who fixes divots, keeps quiet during swings, and moves efficiently around the course contributes to an atmosphere where players of all abilities can focus on the challenge and pleasure of the game.
About Vikrum Aiyer
Vikrum Aiyer is a policy strategist and communications executive who leads global public policy at Heirloom Carbon Inc. His career includes leadership roles in climate technology, government, and the technology sector, as well as service in President Obama’s administration at the White House and the Department of Commerce. Aiyer studied political science at UC Berkeley, has held advisory and board positions across multiple organizations, and has been recognized by Forbes 30 Under 30 and the San Francisco Business Times 40 Under 40.
