Boss Moves: Navigating the Professional World Like a Chess Grandmaster

On a cold and snowy morning, Jackie, an ambitious intern, found herself running errands on the floor where all the company’s top executives worked. She happened to catch Ms. Washington, Senior Vice President of Sales, sitting at her desk. Jackie knew all about Ms. Washington. She was a sales legend. Jackie dreamt of this moment when she could get a few moments with Ms. Washington. Her heart pounding, she decided to push past her fear and take her shot. But before she could get Ms. Washington’s attention, something amazing happened.

“Hi Jackie. Got a sec?” Ms. Washington asked.

“Me?” asked Jackie incredulous. She felt as if her head would explode.

“Yes, you. Come on in,” Ms. Washington motioned for her to come in.

As Jackie stepped into the spacious office, she noticed numerous citations and awards that span the storied 40-year career of one of the most successful businesswomen in the nation.

“Please take a seat,” Ms. Washington urged.

“Thank you so much Ms. Washington,” Jackie managed, barely audible. As she sat, she noticed something that seemed out of the ordinary for a senior executive’s office.

“So, how’s the internship going so far?”

“It’s going great! Thanks for asking Ma’am,” replied Jackie, snapping back into focus.

“Come on now, I can remember my intern days, and they were NOT all great if I’m being honest,” laughed Ms. Washington. “They were however, rewarding. I really learned a lot about myself back then.”   

 “Yeah, there’s good days and frustrating one. If I may, what made those days rewarding? I feel like I’m going in circles at times.”

“Hmm…” pondered Ms. Washington. Bingo! she thought. “I noticed you looking intently at my board when you sat down.”

“Ohh, you caught me staring? I’m sorry, I—_­”

“No don’t apologize. It’s a hobby of mine. I picked it up from my intern days. Believe it or not, it actually helped me become better at sales and at decision making,” Ms. Washington went on.

“I started my junior year in college. My supervisor at the time was a huge chess player. He always explained things using chess analogies. He would say, ‘Ms. Washington, you gotta see the professional landscape as a huge game of chess. Every move you make can lead to opportunities or unexpected obstacles.’ I hated it at first, but realized he was really giving me good game,” she reminisced.

Jackie nodded, curious as she continued.

“Think of your time here like being a pawn, Jackie. In the beginning, your position may seem humble, you may even feel overlooked, but don’t underestimate the potential you hold. Pawns only move in a straight line however, since they’re often overlooked, they make steady moves and can advance all the way to king’s row. Once there, they can become powerful pieces.”

Feeling inspired, Jackie leaned in. “Wow! So, even though we start at the bottom, it’s possible to make it up the corporate ladder?”

“Exactly! It’s all about strategy, determination, and resilience. At first, you may feel overwhelmed, or like you’re going in circles, like you said,” explained Ms. Washington, her voice steady and encouraging.

Jackie was intrigued. “But how to you deal with challenges and setback?”

“Ah,” Ms. Washington replied thoughtfully. “When you encounter setbacks, remember that even the best grandmasters lose pieces along the way. It’s about how you adapt. Learn from those experiences, gather feedback, and refine your tactics. Each challenge is an opportunity to grow, just like in chess.”

“Sometimes I have a problem with speaking up for myself. How do I balance assertiveness without stepping on toes?” Jackie asked, eager to learn more.

Ms. Washington chuckled warmly. “Consider this: in chess, alliances can often change the course of the game. You form alliance through networking. Build those relationships with your fellow interns and with other colleagues. Show genuine interest in their work and offer support. This way, you foster an environment of collaboration rather than competition.”

“I see,” Jackie murmured, “so it’s not just about individual success but building a strong team.”

“That’s it,” she went on. “In fact, think of how many wins you get when you work as a team. Don’t be afraid to share insights with others, consult on decisions, and celebrate each other’s victories. This creates team spirit and growth.”

Jackie pressed further, “What about making decisions in a fast-paced environment? It can feel scary. I don’t want to make a mistake.”

Ms. Washington’s expression turned serious. “Mistakes are the cost of doing business. Don’t be afraid, be upfront when you make them. The key to effective decision-making lies in strategic foresight. Just as chess players anticipate their opponent’s moves, you must evaluate every potential outcome. Take a moment before reacting and think a few moves ahead.”

As their conversation unfolded, Jackie slowly began to recognize the parallels between chess and her own journey.

“So, even if I feel like a pawn today, I have the chance to develop my skills, adapt, and perhaps one day get to the level of a Ms. Washington?”

Ms. Washington laughed. “Absolutely! And higher than I ever achieved. Remember: authenticity is your unique strength. While you may learn the rules of the game, don’t lose who you are. This will set you apart in a world that craves authenticity and integrity.”

As their discussion wrapped up, Jackie soaked in the impromptu lesson she had gained. The corporate arena was indeed like a grand chess game, full of strategy, resilience, and the potential for remarkable transformation — even for those who start as pawns.

“Thank you, Ms. Washington,” Jackie said as she rose, confidence radiating from her. “I feel equipped to play my game and reach king’s row.”

With a warm smile and a handshake, she replied, “Don’t work for the game, make the game work for you!”