National sports icon Tiger Woods has made the prospect of a golf career or even a career in golf instruction a popular idea among amateur and professional golfers alike. While golf jobs certainly aren't for everyone, there are actually quite a few options for the aspiring golf aficionado - no matter what his or her skill level. With the added bonus of attending golf school or taking advantage of golf instruction, a golf career is actually a viable option for anyone with the right drive.

Different Types of Golf Careers

If your game is good enough, becoming a professional golfer is certainly a top choice. The amount of money to be made in tournaments and endorsements (and, of course, the fame that inevitably follows), makes this a highly-sought-after career field. However, spots in the top ranks of golfers are scarce, and the competition is incredibly high.

A job as a golf instructor is often a good choice for second-tier professionals or amateurs with experience. Being the "golf pro" at an area golf course is actually quite profitable, and it gives you access to a number of different courses and tournaments around the globe.

If your skills are somewhat lacking but your knowledge level is high, then a golf career as a caddie or other golf course professional can be a great fit. Of course, you can also consider combining other skills with a passion for the game: for example, if you can write, you may be able to build a career writing about golf and golfers. If you have a background in marketing, you may be able to land a job promoting tournaments or even regional golf courses. Managerial or organizational skills can lead you to the coordinating role for tournaments.

How to Get Your Golf Career Started

No matter where your skills lie, you may want to consider attending golf school or taking professional golf instruction. As with any career field, the right educational background can go a long way in getting you the credentials and the connections necessary to find entry-level employment or a place to begin your career.

Being an alumnus of a nationally-recognized school certifies that you know all the aspects of the game, from skills and theory to the rules of tournament play. It can also get you an edge in building a resume and landing interviews. Because golf careers are popular, it is one career field in which having any sort of edge can go a long way.

An Active Lifestyle

Golf jobs and careers are ideal for those looking to expand beyond the traditional nine-to-five office setting. Although there are certainly ample opportunities behind the scenes, working in the offices of area golf resorts, golf course development, and tournament organization, this is not a field for those looking to simply punch a time card. It is a great way to get on your feet, out-of-doors, and into contact with other passionate sports enthusiasts.

Careers in golf instruction and professional golfing mean being an athlete first and a professional second. Careers as caddies or other course workers can be equally taxing as far as the physical requirements of the career. After all, golf involves active movement, occasional hot weather or adverse conditions, and physical maintenance.

If you are able to accept the concept of living an active lifestyle, working hard to get where you want to be, and making the right connections through golf schools and professional networks, a golf career might be just the thing!