Mentorship Program

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Here to Help You Grow

Some of the best lessons in golf retail come from a conversation with someone who’s been there. That’s why we created the AGM Mentorship Program. Our goal is to bring golf retail professionals together, one-to-one, to share what they know and learn from each other.

Whether you’re seeking guidance, navigating challenges, or are ready to pass on what you’ve learned, you’ll walk away with a new perspective and fresh ideas for your shop. Grow professionally and build lasting relationships in the AGM Mentorship Program.

Elevate Retail. Enhance Relationships. Educate Always.

What you might talk about:

Merchandising Buying & Inventory Visual Merchandising Member Experience Vendor Relationships Leading a Team Promotions & Events Your Next Career Step

“I’m looking for guidance.”

Maybe you’re new to golf retail, have just stepped into a bigger role, or you’re wondering what’s next. Wherever you are, you don’t have to figure it out alone.

What you’ll get:

– Someone in your corner who’s faced the same challenges

– Honest advice on real situations in your shop

– A clear goal and a plan to get there

– AGM Mentorship Program Handbook including suggested conversation starters, discussion prompts, activities, and worksheets designed to help mentors and mentees facilitate meaningful conversations, track progress, and apply key learnings throughout the program. Use is dependent on individual mentorship experience.

Apply as a Mentee

Ken, a smiling speaker wearing a vest and conference badge, stands at the front of a breakout room during a session. Audience members are seated at tables, one person in the foreground raising their hand to ask a question.

“I have experience to share.”

You’ve learned a lot on the floor, in the office, or on the buying side, and you remember who helped you along the way. You don’t need every answer, just a willingness to listen and share.

What you’ll get:

– The chance to pay forward what others taught you

– Fresh perspective from the next generation of golf retail

– Stronger leadership and coaching skills

– AGM Mentorship Program Handbook including suggested conversation starters, discussion prompts, activities, and worksheets designed to help mentors and mentees facilitate meaningful conversations, track progress, and apply key learnings throughout the program. Use is dependent on individual mentorship experience.

Apply as a Mentor

Marty Hackel and Justine Cook doing a live podcast recording at the 2025 AGM Retail Conference.

Apply

Share your experience, goals, and interests.

Get Matched

We’ll thoughtfully pair you by goals and fit.

Talk it through

2–3 conversations a month around a given theme.

Reflect and Plan

Celebrate your growth and plan what’s next.

Designed to be flexible but structured, this program allows for meaningful conversations to happen naturally while each pair focuses on the conversations and topics that are most relevant to their individual goals.

1-2 hours per month

Built for busy schedules. Each month includes focused discussion topics, practical worksheets, and 2–3 scheduled check-ins designed to keep progress consistent and actionable.

Mentors and mentees are also encouraged to connect informally between scheduled conversations as questions, ideas, challenges, or opportunities arise.

Mark Your Calendar

SPRING 2027 – Pilot Program

Applications Due: December 1

Program Runs: February- May

FALL 2027

Applications Due: May 1

Program Runs: July – December

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be an AGM member?

Yes. The program is open to current AGM members. Not a member yet? Join here.

Is there a cost?

The program is FREE for AGM members. All you need to bring is your time and curiosity.

How are pairings made?

Your application will ask questions relating to your goals, experience, and communication style. Our Mentorship Committee reads every application and compares a few possible matches. Your best match isn’t always someone with the same background. Sometimes a different perspective is exactly what helps you grow.

What happens after I’m matched?

Within your first two weeks, you’ll get to know each other, set 2–3 goals together, and decide how and how often you’ll meet. Goals can change as you go.

I've never mentored before. Can I still apply?

Absolutely! You don’t need every answer. Sometimes the most helpful thing you can do is listen, ask a good question, and share what you’ve learned along the way.

What’s expected of me as a mentor?

Show up, listen, share your experiences, and help your mentee think things through. You’re a guide and a sounding board. You’re not expected to be their supervisor, solve every problem, or be available around the clock.

What’s expected of me as a mentee?

Come with questions and topics, follow through on the next steps you agree on, and stay open to new ideas. This is your experience, so the more you put in, the more you’ll get out.

Do I have to complete the worksheets?

Only if you want to. The handbook includes conversation starters and optional worksheets to help you get going. It’s not homework, and nothing needs to be turned in.

What if my pairing isn't working?

It happens, and that’s okay. Not every match develops exactly as expected. Reach out to AGM staff and we’ll help figure out the best next step.