Is Serendipity Serendipitous?

Serendipity may not be as serendipitous as we believe when we take into account the odds of some unexpected event happening, even if not the particular event that does happen. Consider, for example, the frequency of chance encounters that can lead to opportunities when attending a conference. Therefore, rather than being surprised by serendipity, we should expect it, and thus manage it, for example, by spending less time on e-calls and more time around the coffee machine, where serendipity can flourish.

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Publication Details

Journal
Journal of Management Inquiry
Published
2025-09-24
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1177/10564926251365863
Primary Topic
Paranormal Experiences and Beliefs
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
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article

Is Serendipity Serendipitous?

Henry Mintzberg
Journal of Management Inquiry
Paranormal Experiences and Beliefs
article

Is Serendipity Serendipitous?

Henry Mintzberg
article en

Abstract

Serendipity may not be as serendipitous as we believe when we take into account the odds of some unexpected event happening, even if not the particular event that does happen. Consider, for example, the frequency of chance encounters that can lead to opportunities when attending a conference. Therefore, rather than being surprised by serendipity, we should expect it, and thus manage it, for example, by spending less time on e-calls and more time around the coffee machine, where serendipity can flourish.

Journal of Management InquiryVol. 35(1)
McGill University (CA)
Openalex Percentile: Top 70%
Paranormal Experiences and Beliefs
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Is Serendipity Serendipitous? — Henry Mintzberg · Journal of Management Inquiry (2025) | TGRS Research Map | TGRS