Lessons of Leadership Hidden in Chess
Whether you are a regular chess player or someone inspired by The Queen’s Gambit or just got started with playing it during this pandemic situation — there is a lesson hidden in each game of chess that you play! And these learnings don’t just have to be restricted to the chess board.
One of the best places to use those lessons is in the corporate world. Here is my take on it. I believe each piece on the chess board represents the people we work with, their style, character and personalities. The way we bring together the work force dictates the success of each combat, battle and war.
Pawns — The Nameless, Faceless and Uncelebrated Underdogs
An army without pawns is bound to collapse! Pawns are the epitome of collaboration and team spirit. Imagine someone putting themselves in a spot either to save one of their own kind or to save a higher rated piece! Just like the higher pieces need to recognise the immense support they get from pawns, we too need to take a moment to thank all the front runners in our team. And don’t forget, with enough support and encouragement, each pawn has the potential to graduate on and take higher important roles, for all you know he/she is your next Queen!
Bishop — The Linear Thinkers
Though bishops move in a predictable fashion, I think their strength lies in their consistency. We have colleagues who pretty much think the same way in all situations. Maybe they are not too innovative, but bear with me for a moment and you will realise that they are a true asset to the team. The fact that they are predictable, means that once you form a rapport, they can be your allies. They won’t throw a curve ball at you ever. Also since they have a pattern of thoughts and actions, and they have treaded that path a zillion times, it could mean they are an expert in navigating that path. They can have deep expertise which comes to use in sticky situations.
Knight — The one in Shining Armour
Knights are quirky and unique and they wear that trait like a badge of honour. Maybe that’s what makes them every one’s favourite. No one can miss to recognise these intelligent, energetic team members who are adept at taking calculated risks. Put them in a centre spot, throw any challenge at them, they will jump over obstacles, and in most cases they will find a way out and save the day. They can seem a bit brash in their approach, but usually, they know what they are going for. The way to get the best of them is to give them the freedom to be unconventional and let them do their jugaad (innovation).
Rook — The gentle yet powerful heavy weights
The rooks are patient and contemplating, but definitely not passive! They will barge left, right and centre when it looks like its endgame. Our senior folks in the team are very much like the rooks, they give an opportunity for the other members to set things in motion. They keep a watch for red flags all the time. And when it is the need of the hour, they will rush in and use all their might to bring things back on track. They are highly influential and use that for the right cause. Why? Aren’t they the only who can castle with agility, exerting power on even the King making him move an additional step towards safety?
Queen — Beauty with Brains
It’s a sight to behold when you see this ever powerful, agile and coveted queen fight for her beloved King. Think of the person in your team who can literally do every possible task with great mastery and take any role effortlessly — that’s your queen (disregarding the actual gender). Treat well, give enough backup and support the queen and she can win any battle for you. But here is a word of caution, don’t put all your hopes and bets on a single person so much so that if they fall sick, resign etc you think it’s game over. It’s really not! Give the team the morale boost that they need and you will see every person will rise to the occasion. They will continue the legacy of their queen.
King — It all boils down to him
King — The buck stops here. If you are a good King (Leader, Manager, CEO, etc.) you know all that’s being done by the team is because they place the highest belief on you, your vision and mission. The make your goals, their goals. The greatest powers vested on you means that you take care of each one of your people, express gratitude and stay grounded. It’s up to you to recognise the strengths of your people and even turn their short comings into their unique strengths. Communicate often, leverage their skills, hear their voices and be quick to appreciate. That’s probably the only strategy you need to keep your team like a well-oiled machine.
“Chess is life in miniature. Chess is a struggle, chess battles.” — Garry Kasparov
With that I conclude my rambling and will get back to a game of chess to storm a castle!