Authors: Chenghao Ma
School of Humanities and Social Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, China
Corresponding Author:
Chenghao Ma
2001 Longxiang Blvd.,
Shenzhen, China 518172
machenghao@cuhk.edu.cn
Chenghao Ma is now at the School of Humanities and Social Science, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen.
BOOK REVIEW: Organizational Behavior in Sport Management: An Applied Approach to Understanding People and Groups
Barnhill, C. R., Smith N. L., & Oja, B. D. (2021). Organizational behavior in sport management: An applied approach to understanding people and groups. Palgrave Macmillan.
“Organizational behavior in sport management: An applied approach to understanding people and groups,” authored by Christopher R. Barnhill, Natalie L. Smith, and Brent D. Oja, presents a comprehensive and insightful analysis of organizational behavior theories and their application within the domain of sports management. It involves topics related to employee and team management and the culture and structure of organizations in sports. The authors offer a valuable resource for practitioners and scholars who seek to understand the interplay between human behavior and organizational structures in the sports industry by rigorously examining organizational behavior through an academic lens.
The book commenced with a solid theoretical foundation, presenting fundamental organizational behavior concepts and establishing a foundation for further analysis. The authors meticulously interweave theoretical underpinnings with real-world case studies and sport-specific scenarios, providing a nuanced perspective that caters to sports organizations’ distinct demands and challenges. The book’s structured organization reflects a pedagogically sound approach, enabling a systematic progression of ideas. The book begins by introducing organizational behavior and its pertinence in sports management, followed by a comprehensive exploration of essential themes such as communication, motivation, leadership, and organizational culture. The logical arrangement of content ensures a coherent understanding of each subject, allowing readers to comprehend the complexities of individual and group management within sports organizations.
The book is structured into four parts: organization behavior in the sports industry, understanding the organization, getting to know employees and volunteers of sport organizations, and understanding work groups and teams. The initiation of each chapter is highlighted by an interview with a practitioner, describing an obstacle their organization successfully overcame. The example demonstrates the relevant theories and interventions utilized in the industry. Further examples and theories are examined to give readers a comprehensive overview of managerial issues in the sports industry. These examples offer alternative intervention methods illustrated in the practitioner interview. Case studies provide a chance to put the concepts into practice in real-world scenarios in the sports industry.
This book’s significant advantage is combining academic rigor with practical application. The writers skillfully incorporate theoretical concepts with real-world experiences, prompting the development of critical thinking and analytical skills. The book demonstrates the adaptability and versatility of organizational behavior theories in sports management through diverse case studies and examples from varied sports contexts. The book allows readers to understand how leaders and managers apply theory to communicate and engage employees, fostering desired organizational cultures while being challenged to address common issues through cases and hypothetical situations.
Besides, the book underscores the criticality of effective communication and leadership in sports organizations where teamwork and collaboration are crucial. The authors investigate the complexities of communication strategies, highlighting their influence on team performance, organizational character, and ultimate success. Moreover, studying leadership styles and their effect on motivation and team dynamics offers readers valuable perspectives on promoting a positive organizational climate that encourages attaining organizational goals. In addition, the authors highlight the importance of ethical considerations in sports organizations. The integration of this feature elevates the book, encouraging readers to consider how organizational behavior theories can shape ethical practices and promote a sustainable and socially responsible sports industry.
“Organizational behavior in sport management: An applied approach to understanding people and groups” represents a significant addition to the scholarly literature on sports management. The scholarly rigor, practical relevance, and insightful analysis render it an indispensable resource for academics, students, and professionals who seek to navigate the complex interplay of human behavior and organizational dynamics within the sports domain. The book represents a sophisticated method, delivering a complete comprehension of organizational behavior in sports management, which is an indispensable extension to the academic collections of researchers and practitioners in the sector.
The book review resulted in three key takeaways. The book furnishes readers with a framework to efficiently apply theories and principles of organizational behavior in the sports industry. By examining real-world scenarios and case studies, readers can grasp the practical implications of these theories and tailor strategies for managing teams and organizations in the sports sector. Secondly, readers acquire insights on how to optimize leadership styles and promote enhanced team dynamics. Comprehending the importance of communication, motivation, and organizational culture enables readers to promote higher team performance within sports organizations and improve their leadership capabilities. Thirdly, the authors have elucidated the importance of organizational culture and its impact on driving change within sports organizations. Readers are presented with strategic approaches to manage and transform organizational culture, enabling them to navigate transitions and cultivate a constructive and adaptable work environment.
