Etiquette with Other Groups

Golf courses are shared environments, and the etiquette rules that govern interactions between groups are taken seriously — especially at private clubs. As a caddy, you represent your player and your club in every interaction.

Yield to faster groups. If a group behind yours is moving faster, wave them through. This is standard practice and shows respect for other players’ time. The faster group will appreciate it, and it relieves pressure on your group to rush.

Silence while others hit. Never talk, move conspicuously, or create distraction when a player from another group is addressing or swinging. This applies whether you’re 20 yards away or 200 yards away — if there’s any chance your movement is in their field of vision, stay still.

Stay on your side. On shared fairways or holes that run close together, stay on the correct side of your fairway and don’t cross into adjacent holes unnecessarily.

Repair what you can. Repair divots in the fairway (replace the divot piece or fill with sand depending on the course’s practice). Rake any footprints you notice in bunkers even if they’re not from your group. Replace divots even if a slower player made them. Leave the course better than you found it.

Handling Payment and Tips

Getting paid is a professional exchange that should be handled with maturity and grace.

Know your rate before the round. Always confirm your fee before you start — with the caddy master if you’re through a program, or directly with the player if it’s a private arrangement. Going into a round without agreeing on payment is awkward for everyone.

At the end of the round — thank the player genuinely. “Thank you, I really enjoyed caddying for you today” is simple, professional, and leaves a positive final impression.

If you receive a tip — accept it graciously with “Thank you, I really appreciate it.” Nothing more, nothing less. A simple, direct thank-you is the professional response. Counting the money in front of the player, reacting to the amount, or saying anything that implies you expected more is unacceptable.

Never ask for a tip or hint that you expect one. Tips are earned through exceptional service, not requested. A player who sees a young caddy suggesting a tip in any way will be put off, and word travels quickly in private club culture.