Avoiding the pitfalls of overconfidence while benefiting from the advantages of confidence

Alex B. Van Zant, Don A. Moore

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

14 Scopus citations

Abstract

Successful leadership depends on the confidence to rally support, win allies, and deter competitors. However, overconfident leaders have led their companies into disaster. This article identifies the circumstances in which leaders are most prone to overconfidence and its concomitant risks. On the flip side, it explores those circumstances under which confidence is most conducive to success. Using insights from recent research, the article provides recommendations on how managers can avoid the pitfalls of overconfidence while benefiting from the advantages of confidence.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)5-23
Number of pages19
JournalCalifornia Management Review
Volume55
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Dec 2013
Externally publishedYes

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Strategy and Management

Keywords

  • Decision making
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Investments
  • Leadership
  • Organizational behavior
  • Securities trading
  • Startups

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Avoiding the pitfalls of overconfidence while benefiting from the advantages of confidence'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this