Private club management is stressful because of the emotional energy it consumes. The effects of long- term stress can lead to burnout and turnover which averages over 100 percent annually as an industry and over 200 percent in some hospitality companies. This study examines burnout in private club management utilizing a three-part survey instrument completed by more than 150 private club managers located across the United States. Further, it presents an extensive list of recommendations to assist leaders in reducing the negative effects of the three aspects of burnout syndrome.

Dr. Ed Merritt is The Collins Distinguished Professor of Management at Cal State University (Cal Poly Pomona). He earned a doctorate from Cornell University and spent more than 20 years in industry. The author of 6 books and more than 200 articles and presentations, Merritt consults in leadership, strategic planning, and opinion surveys.