In times of rapid change, conventional wisdom suggests that hesitating is not a winning strategy. Material science breakthroughs, business model innovation, changing consumer patterns, and the ubiquity of AI are creating anxiety for many C-suite executives. If you don’t do fill-in-the-blank-thing right now, could someone else beat you to it, and box you out for the next 20 years?
When an Active Pause Is the Best Strategic Choice
Three situations in which watchful waiting might be the right call.
January 15, 2024
Summary.
In the face of competitive threats, managers are tempted to do something, because being active feels better than being passive. In fact, an active pause can make the most sense. This is especially true in industries facing a big technological change, when going “all in” on a nascent technology may have larger long-term costs than benefits.
New!
HBR Learning
Business Plan Development Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Business Plan Development. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
Learn how to create a winning business plan.
Learn More & See All Courses
New!
HBR Learning
Business Plan Development Course
Accelerate your career with Harvard ManageMentor®. HBR Learning’s online leadership training helps you hone your skills with courses like Business Plan Development. Earn badges to share on LinkedIn and your resume. Access more than 40 courses trusted by Fortune 500 companies.
Learn how to create a winning business plan.