Skip to content

Competence Quote by Clayton Christensen

“Core competence, as it is used by many managers, is a dangerously inward-looking notion. Competitiveness is far more about doing what customers value than doing what you think you're good at.” quote by Clayton Christensen
Download Open image
“Core competence, as it is used by many managers, is a dangerously inward-looking notion. Competitiveness is far more about doing what customers value than doing what you think you're good at.”

Clayton Christensen

About This Quote

Source Book: The Innovator’s Dilemma, 1997, business strategy

Focusing inward on core skills limits competitiveness; value to customers matters more.

In simple terms: Look outward to serve customers.

Key Takeaway

Align offerings with customer needs.

Themes

business innovation customer focus strategy

Mood

analytical pragmatic

Type

strategic business

When to use this quote

  • product development
  • customer research
  • strategic planning

Key Concepts

core competence market orientation value creation

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can firms balance core skills with market demands?
  • What metrics reveal customer value?
A Different Perspective

May undervalue internal strengths.

3.3 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by Clayton Christensen

Explore all 166 Clayton Christensen quotes

More Competence quotes

Browse all 452 Competence quotes