Business moves, like chess moves, should be strategic
When you learn to play chess, you are taught how the pieces move. I go into detail about how chess relates to business in my column for Label and Narrow Web magazine, Mastering the King’s Game. I’ll summarize here.
Because the King moves only one space at a time, new players may overlook him as a strategic piece. The King, however, has a highly strategic role in a competitive game between two equally-matched opponents.
Male or female, young or old, if you own a business in the graphic arts industry, you cannot be truly successful unless you step into your rightful role and lead as a King does on the chess board.
And leadership is what we desperately need in today’s business world. To win like a King, you must be a King.
Each of the other pieces on the board – and the people in your company – have their rightful roles. They execute very specifically for their given situation. These pieces are not designed to operate as the King does, and to do so would limit their distinctive capabilities.
You can see why we need pieces of all types, with their own unique traits, and why the King must accept his or her position as leader.
During the endgame in chess, you see the true colors of the King. In an advanced game – and in the competitive world of business – the King springs into action well into the action. As the endgame unfolds, the King must activate and deploy. Often that plan involves shepherding pieces across the board to get within striking distance of the opposing King – and help promote Pawns to Queens.
It takes patience, courage, and the ability to think many moves ahead for the King to get to this point in the game.
As a master-level player, you can’t underestimate the King’s ability – and responsibility – to protect and guide the pieces around him. When the King moves in stride, surrounded by his contingent, he is virtually untouchable.
When you run your business — and later as you prepare to sell or transition – you have the King’s power, and it should not be wasted.
Building the proper plan and deliberately executing require a combination of tactics and patience.
The King’s game:
- Strategic thinking.
- Adapting to changing scenarios.
- Guiding and protecting your people.
- Not letting your ego overshadow the process.
- Not rushing or taking ill-advised shortcuts.
- Making systematic progress while executing your grand plan.
Areas where we can apply the King’s game are:
- Strengthening the business through better leadership.
- Solidifying the business financially.
- Empowering managers.
- Providing a secure environment for employees.
- Improving quality inside and out.
- Using modern selling methods.
- Positioning your business powerfully in the market.
- Acquiring competitors or constructing an advantage over them.
- Capitalizing on industry trends and changes.
You can’t do these steps sporadically, randomly, or in panic mode, especially if you are planning to sell your business. Focus is vital.
You can see why the King’s role is paramount – in chess and business.
Whether you want to transition your business in six months or six years, the key to winning is to put the King in position for success.
Achieving an awe-inspiring end game starts with the right advisor, your dream team of experts, hiring and retaining top talent, investing in your business, and learning to be a leader. Read the full article on the LNW website.