ABS International Strategy & Marketing Seminar: Vareska van de Vrande (RSM)

“Expect the unexpected: how to increase the likelihood of serendipitous encounters”

Evenement

Serendipity, the occurrence of unexpected, yet positive outcomes is a powerful driver behind the creation of innovations. Given the unexpected nature of these events, the question arises as to what extent one can actually control or enhance the likelihood of serendipity to occur. In this paper, we examine the role of networking ability and variety seeking as drivers behind serendipitous outcomes. One way in which serendipity can be facilitated is by combing otherwise unconnected individuals. We test our hypotheses using a large-scale study amongst co-workers, i.e. entrepreneurs and self-employed professionals working in communal space. The data reveal that networking ability enhances serendipity, but only up to a certain point. After that, variety seeking becomes an important additional driver. These findings have important implications for individuals and organizations alike. 

Please register: secbs-abs@uva.nl

Gepubliceerd door  ABS-RI