Playing 3D Chess in a Chaotic News Cycle

In today’s nonstop news cycle, the best communicators don’t just react — they think like chess masters. 

With crises, cultural shifts, and headlines breaking by the minute, communicators and PR professionals — especially in economic development — are under more pressure than ever to offer timely, strategic guidance. But in this high-stakes environment, reacting too quickly — or too narrowly — can lead to missteps that impact reputation, trust, and business outcomes. 

That’s why communicators need to think in layers. Enter: three-dimensional communications chess. 

This framework isn’t just about staying calm. It’s about zooming out, seeing the full playing field, anticipating outcomes, and guiding clients through complex moments with clarity and confidence. 

1. Pause + Zoom Out 

When significant news breaks, it can be tempting to capitalize on the news or issue a response immediately – especially when stakeholders are looking for answers and advice right away. But clear thinking, and sound advice, never comes from chaos or knee jerk reactions.  

The most strategic communicators know that before any public comment is issued or advice is given, the first move is to pause. Not freeze — pause. Take a moment to detach from emotion, pressure, and headlines so you can approach the situation with a calm, focused mindset. That pause is what creates space for better judgment. 

2. Evaluate the Board 

After you pause, it’s time to zoom out and assess the full board.  

Read as much as you can across various news sources.  

Ask: What do we know? What don’t we know yet? What’s the broader context — political, social, cultural, or business — surrounding this news? What’s the potential local impact? Are other stakeholders responding yet? Is this a standalone event or part of a bigger narrative? Is this still a developing situation with missing details yet to be reported? 

Strategic communication starts by recognizing that no move exists in a vacuum. Evaluate the terrain fully before making your next move. It’s entirely possible that it’s not the right time for you to conduct an interview or react. 

3. Game it Out  

Once you understand the board, start gaming out your moves — just like a chess player thinking three steps ahead. 

Who will be impacted by this? How will it impact my stakeholders? What are the reputational risks or opportunities? What messages align with our economic development organization’s mission and audience expectations? Who is the right spokesperson if it’s the right time to comment? Sometimes the smartest move isn’t to speak — it’s to wait, listen, and prepare a more informed, meaningful response. 

Mapping out “if this, then that” scenarios will give you the confidence to act – or not act – strategically. Ensure your next moves are in lockstep with your EDO’s values, priorities and long-term goals. 

The next time you’re feeling caught in the heat of a headline, take a breath, scan the board, and think three moves ahead. That’s how today’s communicators build trust and drive lasting impact. If you’re looking for a strategic communications partner to help your economic development organization navigate the uncertainty of a chaotic news cycle, get in touch with Vice President of Public Relations Caitlin Teare at Caitlin.teare@aboutdci.com.