Gods of Management: The Changing Work of Organizations

by Charles B. Handy

Book Overview

Would Zeus be more effective running a bank or an ad agency? Executives will find out in The Gods of Management, which is perhaps the most intriguing work from the best-selling author of The Age of... This description may be from another edition of this product.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0195096177
• ISBN13: 9780195096170
• Release Date: November 1996
• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Length: 272 Pages
• Weight: 0.75 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.7" x 5.6" x 8.5"

Customer Reviews

Handy, C. (1995)

This book was received in a timely manner, and the condition is excellent. Good job.

Find your God

I like Handy's writing style and have read most of his books, what I particularly like about this publication is that its not his usual commentary about the way the world of work is changing, rather it provides a framework for most managers, particularly new managers to understand the cultural dynamics of their organisation. Each type of organisation is characterised by one of the Greek gods, its a useful analogy and he is quite playful with the portrayal of each god type. Identifying the 'god' type operating within your organisation, then understanding its character allows any manager to position their work in way that would be understood and accepted by the hierarchy. It also helps a manager steer clear of incurring their wrath. I recommend this book as a great primer for anyone learning about organisational dynamics for the first time. It was simply a joy to read and very useful, Excellent.

Mesmerizing

It was a wonderful idea relate two concepts that seem so far in a book that explores interesting aspects in the dynamics of the management. I've been management years after having read this book and I`ve to recognize the huge help that the text gave me.A must for those managers who still consider the mythos is just a cultural hobbie. Wrong choice!And I hope Mr. Harding you surprise with another book related with similar items.

Arguably the most philosophical among all management gurus

Many other management thinkers create new models and popularize them as their masterwork. Charles Handy is different. He just reminds us about things that have happened. Greek gods were already part of our civilization. Yet it takes one man like Handy to recognize it and analyze it so creatively

Fascinating organizational study.

This is a really interesting book. Handy uses the personalities of the gods to typify certain management styles. It makes the styles more memorable and easier to discuss with colleagues