When I talk about S&M, I’m talking about seduction and manipulation. The most successful people in business, warfare, politics, and life itself are masters of the art of manipulation. But it’s the combination of the two that is important, because people who are manipulators are seen as selfish and in the wrong. Manipulate is a dirty word, but if you combine it with seduction — that is, charm and benevolence — so that the other person is going to benefit as much as you are, then it will work to your advantage. Most people actually enjoy being handled as long as you don’t hurt them or operate maliciously. They won’t resent you for manipulating them if you give them something in return, like helping them to be better at their jobs or better people.
Author: Nina DiSesa
Source: Across the Board (ATB)
Subjects: Leadership, Organizational Behavior, Personality / Behavior, Power / Authority