Essay: Stuck in the Rough

The article "Stuck in the Rough" discusses why some elite golf clubs around the nation are stuck in crisis as money and memberships decline. The article mentions how the idea of the "country club" needs to be changed, focusing more on the changing needs of younger members. It also describes how country club's woes cannot be blamed solely on the economic crisis. One problem being faced by country clubs is that members are becoming younger every year. It would be wise for many clubs to cater to the ideas and needs of younger employees and members by offering a broader set of services. I believe by changing the culture of an organization, it will attract different types of people with new, fresh ideas. The article also mentions that the recent troubles faced by country clubs are not only due to the depression, but can be traced back to the early 1990's, when Congress enacted tax reforms that eliminated or reduced the ability of club members to deduct club dues as a business expense. In turn, this raised the effective cost of joining clubs and gave rise to a new type of upscale, public course. The article also points to some ways that clubs are plugging the current shortfalls. Some of the solutions include discounting initiation fees or waiving them all together and also merging with nearby clubs to reduce overhead costs. If I were the owner of a country club, I would begin by becoming more diverse by hiring a variety of employees to bring a certain flair to the club. I would also offer new programs to the club, such as yoga and different exercise classes that would widen the club's services to not only attract men, but their families as well. Every company, not just country clubs, can benefit from a more varied cultural environment.