When nudges promote neutral behavior: an experimental study of managerial decisions under risk and uncertainty

Abstract

Managers often make decisions in situations involving risk and uncertainty. To ensure the prosperity of the company, neutral behavior is desirable in such situations. However, when evaluating future-oriented managerial actions, cognitive biases can arise that are manifested as aversions towards risky and uncertain situations, leading to non-optimal decisions. In an online experiment with a convenience sample of 298 US participants, we investigate deviations from risk- and uncertainty-neutral managerial decisions and apply neutrality-promoting behavioral interventions in a business venture setting. We find that using a recommendation nudge before as well as after making an initial decision improves individual performance to achieve higher neutrality levels. In sum, we show that in managerial decision-making processes, where experience, time, and information are often lacking, simple decision-making aids lead to better decisions.