The role of social networks formed on the golf course

Abstract

The emergence of a highly competitive, global knowledge based economy is increasingly compelling organisations to discover ways in which to create a sustainable competitive advantage. The efficient use of resources and capital at the organisation’s disposal is critical to ensuring success. Social capital is recognised as a resource which should be leveraged to the organisations benefit. This study considered the value of social networks formed on the golf course for both individuals and organisations. In addition to this, underlying relational factors for the realisation of this value were explored. This was done based on structured depth interviews with individuals who use golf as a method of networking, and representatives from various organisations. An survey was also incorporated into the study using a snowball sampling technique, in order to create a better understanding of the social factors involved in golf social networking in the South African environment. Importantly, the results showed that organisational benefits may be derived as a result of investment in golf social networking. The golf social network was found to contain a high level of cognitive trust, and motivation was identified as a strong factor in the realisation of benefits for organisations. The network was also found to be homophilous, and fairly representative of the senior management bracket in South Africa, which currently faces equity challenges. A model for managing golf social networks was posed.<p/> Copyright