A friendship that seemed genuine on the golf course turned out to be a calculated business relationship. The writer discovered that his golf buddy, a financial adviser, was more interested in securing a client than building a real connection.
The adviser frequently mentioned how popular the writer was among other members at the club. Compliments about his status and influence were a recurring theme during their rounds.
At first, the flattery felt natural for a new friendship. The writer enjoyed the attention and assumed the adviser simply appreciated his company.
Over time, the pattern became clear. The adviser’s praise always circled back to the writer’s professional network and financial standing.
The turning point came when the adviser began steering conversations toward investment products and retirement planning. The friendly chats transformed into sales pitches.
The writer realized the friendship was a tool. The adviser used social settings to build trust, then exploited that trust for business leads.
This experience serves as a cautionary tale. Not every friendly face on the golf course has your best interests at heart.
