Crisis Management Lessons from Netflix’s Top Show: Squid Game

Maryanne Grinnell • January 14, 2025

In Netflix’s Squid Game, the platform’s most-watched debut series ever, each episode’s challenge serves as a powerful metaphor for survival, strategy, and adaptability. While crises in the business world may not always involve life-or-death stakes, the lessons from Squid Game offer valuable parallels to navigating high-pressure situations.

At NP Strategy, we specialize in helping businesses navigate crises with strategic communications plans designed to mitigate risks and preserve trust—much like main character Seong Gi-hun and his allies relied on careful strategy and collaboration to stay in the game.

Lesson 1: Crisis Planning is Key – Inspired by Tug-of-War

In the iconic Tug-of-War game, victory depends not only on strength but on teamwork, strategy, and preparation. A cohesive plan can mean the difference between success and failure. Similarly, in crisis management, having a proactive strategy allows your organization to maintain control under pressure.

A crisis can strike at any moment—negative media coverage, social media backlash, employee dissatisfaction, or community complaints. Without a plan, the risk of chaos and reputational damage is high. However, like the carefully coordinated efforts of the winning Tug-of-War team, a well-prepared communications strategy ensures that your team works in unison to face challenges head-on.

Lesson 2: Adaptability Wins the Day – Inspired by Red Light, Green Light

The Red Light, Green Light game mirrors the agility needed in a crisis, where circumstances change rapidly, and actions must adapt in real time.

For instance, a statement prepared in advance might need to be adjusted in real-time to address new developments or public sentiment. The ability to pause, reassess, and act thoughtfully—just as players must stop when “Red Light” is called—can keep your organization steady amid uncertainty.

Lesson 3: Know Your Limits and Collaborate – Inspired by Glass Bridge

In the Glass Bridge game, players must cross a bridge spanning two canyons by stepping on tempered glass panels while carefully avoiding the fragile ones that shatter beneath their weight. They quickly realize that by observing the person ahead of them, the best course of action will be revealed.

Similarly, in crisis management, knowing your organization’s limits and when to rely on external expertise is key. Just as players follow the lead of those ahead to avoid missteps, partnering with crisis experts like NP Strategy ensures you have the experienced guidance needed to make informed decisions and navigate challenges with confidence.

Crisis Communication with NP Strategy

While the stakes of your crisis may not compare to the intense competition of Squid Game, the principles of preparation and adaptability remain vital. NP Strategy can help you develop a communications plan to anticipate potential risks, craft clear messaging, and equip your team to respond effectively during a crisis.

Whether you’re proactively planning or responding to an emerging issue, our experts are here to help you navigate the complexities of any crisis.

Are you ready to play the game of crisis preparedness? Don’t get eliminated—click here to select O for NP Strategy to build your winning strategy today!