Strategic Thinking Training for Problem Solving

The Challenge of Rookie Manager Minji to Save a Company in Crisis

During her work on the junior board, Minji began investigating Mirae Electronics’ new product in more detail. She carefully examined its features, market response, and expert analyses. It was then that she realized the crisis facing Hankook Electronics was more severe than she had initially thought. “Minji, can you handle this month’s executive presentation?” asked Kim, the junior board leader. Minji hesitated for a moment. An executive presentation? Wasn’t that too much responsibility? She found herself momentarily speechless. “Are you unsure?” Kim whispered. Minji slowly nodded. “Yes… I’m not sure if I’m qualified for it.” That night, she couldn’t sleep. On the one hand, she recognized it as a great opportunity, but fear gripped her. _Excerpt from the text

As a rookie manager, Minji devises an innovative strategy to save a company with a long history, but that had slowly begun losing its way amidst waves of change. Through strategic analysis of constantly emerging business problems, she maximizes the company’s strengths, opens up new markets, and leads a fierce battle against rival M Electronics to victory. This novel, depicting the success story of corporate revival through her leadership and teamwork, provides readers with inspiration for challenges and growth. This novel allows readers to gain practical strategic thinking skills they can directly apply to real-world situations.

Book Review

 "Queen of Strategy": The Most Exciting Way to Learn Business Strategy

The business world is constantly evolving. To thrive in such an environment, exceptional strategic thinking is essential. However, the concept of strategy can often feel abstract and challenging to grasp. *Queen of Strategy* addresses these challenges by presenting business strategy in a way that is both accessible and engaging, making it a groundbreaking addition to the genre of business novels.

This novel guides readers through the world of strategy by following the growth journey of its protagonist. Starting as an ordinary employee, the protagonist’s transformation into the “Queen of Strategy” is relatable and inspiring. Along the way, readers experience, alongside the protagonist, a variety of real-world challenges and dilemmas faced in business settings.

The greatest strength of *Queen of Strategy* lies in its ability to weave complex management theories and concepts into an exciting storyline. Readers pick up strategic thinking skills organically through the dialogues and actions of the characters. Rather than merely memorizing theory, this book allows readers to experience firsthand how strategy can be applied in practical situations. The immersive, story-driven approach makes the learning experience feel more like being part of a drama, with Minji, the protagonist, at the center of a dynamic cast of characters. 

The character lineup adds to the book’s depth and engagement. Minji’s right-hand, the sharp and analytical Joo-young, her mentor and coach Hyun-woo, her strategic rival Min-ho, and Chairman Kim, the company leader who both challenges and supports her, all bring vivid energy to the narrative. Through their relationships—conflicts, alliances, and mutual growth—readers gain insight into the complexities of business dynamics and experience strategic decision-making in a variety of situations.

Moreover, *Queen of Strategy* covers key strategic concepts essential in today’s business environment. Tools such as SWOT analysis, Porter’s Five Forces, and non-competitive strategy are seamlessly integrated into the story, allowing readers to gain both theoretical understanding and practical wisdom that can be directly applied in the business world.

Beyond strategy alone, this novel touches on leadership, decision-making, negotiation skills, and other crucial soft skills needed for business success. This comprehensive approach not only shapes readers into strategists but also encourages them to develop as holistic business leaders.

From entry-level employees to top executives, *Queen of Strategy* provides valuable insights for anyone interested in business. By presenting business strategy in a novel format, this book makes complex concepts approachable and engaging while allowing for deep learning.

In conclusion, *Queen of Strategy* is more than a business novel—it is a guide that inspires readers to unlock their imagination and potential, encouraging success through strategic thinking in the business world. With its vibrant characters and engaging storyline, readers embark on a journey through the world of strategy, feeling as if they themselves are the protagonists. Through this book, readers can discover the path to becoming their own “Queen” or “King” of strategy.

Synopsis of ‘The Queen of Strategy’–New Manager Minji’s Journey to Reviving the Company
 
Episode 1: Realizing the Need for Change
New manager Seo Minji joins Hankook Electronics. She identifies the company’s crisis caused by Mirae Electronics’ innovative smart home system launch. She presents a bold proposal to the executives and they appoint her as the leader of a new strategic task force.
 
Episode 2: A Bird's-eye View
Mirae Electronics announces an AI-based smart home platform dominating the market. Minji formulates a counterstrategy using PEST analysis and Porter’s Five Forces model, but the executives reject her proposal in a meeting. With advice from external coach Kang Hyunwoo, she overcomes the crisis through a novel approach.
 
Episode 3: Omija Princess and the Convenience Store
Jooyoung spends a weekend at a neighborhood convenience store for a meal, reminiscing about a pivotal moment from her past in graduate school.
 
Episode 4: Capturing the Customer’s Heart
Mirae Electronics launches a new AI-based product. To find a breakthrough, Minji conducts customer segmentation and customer journey mapping. She discovers hidden market needs and proposes a new product launch, earning a promotion to manager.
 
Episode 5: Shimpyo, A New Beginning
Minji learns about the financial struggles of her favorite cafe near Hongdae and offers help. The cafe rebrands with a new concept and successfully revives, becoming a local hotspot.

Episode 6: Finding Answers Within
Mirae Electronics begins aggressively scouting Hankook Electronics’ top talent with attractive offers. Minji conducts SWOT analysis and value chain analysis to rediscover the company’s strengths. Collaborating with the HR team, she develops a new talent development program that successfully retains key personnel.
 
Episode 7: Chairman Kim’s Mountain Lesson
During a brief weekend hike near his home, Chairman Kim realizes that Hankook Electronics stands at a crossroads and decides to push for changes to move the company forward.
 
Episode 8: Moving Towards One Direction
Chairman Kim sets out to establish a new vision for the company’s future. Minji, tasked with leading a company-wide workshop to define Hankook Electronics’ new vision and mission, uses a strategy map to present a compelling future plan amid internal conflicts. Her achievements lead to her promotion as a senior manager.
 
Episode 9: The Crisis of ‘Happy Flower Shop’
Hyunwoo notices a local flower shop he frequents during holidays is struggling. Unable to ignore its plight, he helps the shop overcome structural challenges, ultimately leading to its successful transformation.
 
Episode 10: The Innovation Battle
Mirae Electronics releases a groundbreaking integrated AI smart home system. In response, Minji uses a business model canvas to design a new business model and leads the rapid development of an MVP. She overcomes internal resistance with a fresh approach and successfully launches an innovative service.
 
Episode 11: The Strategist and the North Star
As Na Minho’s contract with Mirae Electronics nears its end, he contemplates his next steps. During a chance encounter with Minji, he finds a clue for his future direction.
 
Episode 12: The Challenge of Uncharted Territory
Chairman Kim instructs Minji to explore new markets with no competition. She and her team identify a new business area and launch an innovative product targeting previously overlooked customer segments.
 
Episode 13: Facing Inner Change
After running nonstop, Minji takes a short sabbatical and plans to travel abroad. Before departing, she meets with her coach to reflect on the challenges she has faced and the solutions she found, using these moments as steppingstones for her future growth.