Vikrum Aiyer is a policy strategist and communications executive whose career spans government, technology, and climate innovation. Since 2022, Vikrum Aiyer has served as head of global public policy at the San Francisco-based climate technology company Heirloom, where he has helped secure $600 million in federal funding and advanced supportive regulatory environments for carbon-removal technology. Earlier in his career, Aiyer served in President Obama’s administration as a senior advisor for innovation and manufacturing policy at the White House and deputy chief of staff at the Department of Commerce, and later led global public policy and strategic communications at Uber and Postmates. An alumnus of the University of California, Berkeley, and a Wharton Public Policy Fellow, Aiyer has been named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 and San Francisco Business Times 40 Under 40 lists. Outside of his policy work, his interests include photography, cycling, and golf, a pastime with its own long-standing rules of etiquette.
Golf is a game built on integrity, patience, and self-control. Golf combines skill with honesty, patience, and personal responsibility. Players are often expected to report their own penalties, while a round may involve spending several hours alongside other golfers on the same course.
That is why proper etiquette matters so much. Good behavior on the course helps maintain a steady flow of play, protects the playing surface, and creates a comfortable environment for golfers at every experience level.
When groups take too long, delays can quickly spread across the course and affect everyone behind them.
In casual golf, ready golf is also widely encouraged. This means a golfer can take a shot when ready instead of always waiting for a traditional playing order. Used appropriately, this can make a round more efficient.
Golfers can also save time through simple preparation. Limiting unnecessary practice swings, selecting clubs before reaching the ball, and walking promptly between holes can all improve the pace.
Taking care of the course is another important responsibility. Golf surfaces require regular maintenance, and every player should make an effort to leave the course in good condition.
A shot from the fairway may remove a piece of grass, commonly called a divot. When this happens, golfers should return the grass to its original position or use the sand mixture supplied by the course when appropriate.
Putting greens also need attention. A golf ball can leave a small depression in the surface after landing. These pitch marks should be repaired with a suitable tool so the green remains even and healthy for other players.
Sand bunkers should be restored after use as well. Golfers should rake the area after making their shot and remove footprints or other marks. Looking after these areas is not simply a matter of tradition. Regular repairs and proper player habits can help reduce unnecessary stress on turf and maintenance requirements.
Players should also be considerate when someone else is taking a shot. Golf requires focus, and distractions can make it difficult for a golfer to concentrate on a swing or putt.
Talking loudly, moving around, or creating sudden noise near a player should therefore be avoided. Keeping mobile phones silent and lowering conversations around tees and greens is also good practice.
Safety must always come first. A golfer should wait until the group ahead has moved far enough away before hitting. Golf balls can travel at considerable speed and can cause serious harm if someone is struck.
After a round, golfers may shake hands, congratulate one another on strong shots, and remain courteous regardless of differences in playing ability.
Clothing expectations depend on the individual course, although neat and appropriate attire is commonly preferred. New golfers should not feel pressured to know every etiquette rule immediately. Being respectful, paying attention, and learning proper course behavior are important parts of becoming a better player.
Ultimately, golf etiquette is based on respect for the course and for the people using it. Practices involving pace, safety, courtesy, and course care help maintain an enjoyable experience for everyone.
By repairing damaged areas, staying quiet during another player’s shot, following safety practices, and keeping a reasonable pace, golfers help create a welcoming course where players of different skill levels can enjoy pleasure of the game.
About Vikrum Aiyer
Vikrum Aiyer is a San Francisco-based policy strategist and communications executive who has served since 2022 as head of global public policy at the climate technology company Heirloom. He previously held senior policy roles in President Obama’s administration and later led global public policy and strategic communications at Uber and Postmates. An alumnus of the University of California, Berkeley, and a Wharton Public Policy Fellow, Aiyer has been named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 and San Francisco Business Times 40 Under 40 lists.