Using social media
Social media has become one of the biggest tools for daily use. For networking, it is the most useful tool out there! James Matthewman tells us how he uses social media to connect with turfcare professionals worldwide.
Years ago, you would have to write a letter and wait a long time for a reply, whereas now, you can WhatsApp someone in America and have an instant conversation; making them feel like they are next door.
Has social media helped you to connect with others in the turfcare industry?
It has helped me greatly! One valuable connection is John Cunningham from the Isle of Skye Golf Club in Scotland. John is an incredibly diligent head greenkeeper and we have had many conversations on social media - discussing anything from annoying leatherjackets to mental health and physical wellbeing. This would have been an exceedingly challenging task without the help of Twitter X. Logistically, John lives right at the top of the map, but he has become such a great friend thanks to social media.
Do you use social media to gain advice from others within the industry?
Yes, all the time. If you are struggling with anything turf related, Twitter X is a fantastic tool as it is a platform used by many turf professionals. I’m always snooping on Mark Smith’s page (the head greenkeeper from Phoenix Golf Club), as his knowledge and data usage are absolutely mind blowing, and I would highly recommend taking a look. Another fantastic turf professional to gain advice from is Dr John Dempsey. Again, his knowledge is endless and, if you are ever struggling with anything turf related, I can guarantee he would help!
What have you learnt about social media since you started using it?
It’s not as daunting as you think it is! The world is changing extremely fast and you must move with the times. Everything is digital or online these days, but with practice it becomes easier. When I first went back to college, I barely knew how to sign into the online classes, but by the end I was using a laptop like it was second nature. So, my advice would be to persevere with it.
Has social media helped you develop in your role?
A few years ago, I made a video explaining what a leatherjacket was and why it was so destructive to fine turf. There were so many hits on it and I had people messaging me to do more, as they were easy to watch; the YouTube channel GreenkeepingwithJames was born. My videos cover all aspects of greenkeeping, and why we do certain tasks, and are shared across multiple platforms. Members from my own club learn a lot about the intricacies of what goes into maintaining fine turf. They also helped to raise my profile - which no doubt contributed to a promotion in work to deputy head greenkeeper.
How did you get started and what would your advice be to anyone new using social media?
My advice would be to find the right platform for you and what you find easiest to use. Most of the apps cover fine turf, but I’ve found Twitter X is used by a lot of turf professionals and Facebook has many groups you can utilise to gain advice. Have a good look around, see what’s out there and, more importantly, enjoy your social media experience!
James Matthewman is Deputy Head Greenkeeper at Maesteg Golf Club and welcomes topics for future Top Tips.
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You can read the full cover article about networking, sharing information and continuing to learn here