My name is Melissa Borneo. As a peacemaker, my world revolves around maintaining harmony and balance. But even the pursuit of peace can be enhanced when manipulation is the tool at hand. Today I’m going to tell you a story of how I used the power of subterfuge to navigate a contentious negotiation between two department heads, each vying for limited resources. My goal: ensure both sides come away satisfied, thereby securing my position of influence.
The Manipulation Game armed me with a hard-hitting set of questions to achieve this.
Beginning the Subterfuge with Simple Leading Questioning
I begin with Mark, the head of research. His department is known for its groundbreaking but often costly projects, so I figure he’s a textbook Challenger—something I figured out with a simple personality Enneagram subterfuge question- as I learned from the 201 Subterfuge Questions Module.
“Mark, do you often find yourself challenging authority or questioning rules and conventions?” I ask, my tone gentle but probing.
Mark raises an eyebrow, intrigued. “Absolutely. Innovation requires breaking a few rules.”
“And why do you think that is?”
He leans back, contemplating. “Because the status quo never leads to real progress. We need to push boundaries to achieve greatness.”
I nod, letting him see that I understand his perspective. Now I know exactly who I’m dealing with.
My Next Design
Next, I turn to Linda, the head of marketing. Her team is the lifeline of our public image and revenue and behind her eyes, I think I see a fellow Peacemaker. So I ask:
“Linda, do you have a tendency to downplay your own desires to maintain peace in your relationships?”
She sighs, a flicker of frustration in her eyes. “More often than I’d like to admit. It’s part of the job.”
“And why do you feel compelled to do that?”
“Because keeping everyone happy ensures smooth operations. If there’s conflict, everything falls apart.”
I smile, my tone soothing. “Exactly. Your ability to maintain peace is invaluable. However, your needs must also be met to keep everything balanced.”
Tying Things Up
With both Mark and Linda engaged, I now need to steer the conversation towards a resolution that favors both.
“Mark, imagine if Linda’s team had the full support of your innovative projects. The groundbreaking work you’re doing could reach a wider audience, faster.”
Mark nods slowly, seeing the potential. I turn to Linda, “And Linda, with Mark’s cutting-edge research, your campaigns would have fresh, exciting content that sets us apart from competitors.”
Linda’s eyes light up, “That’s true. Combining our strengths could really amplify our impact.”
By using the Subterfuge Questions from The Manipulation Game and mastering manipulation in my own right, I tapped into their core motivations, subtly guiding them towards a peaceful, coalesced atmosphere that benefits everyone, particularly myself—all the while proving my value as a player in the office.
Leaving the meeting, I’d wielded my influence skillfully. The manipulation master understands the value of peace while achieving personal gains. It’s a delicate balance, one that I’ve mastered through the subtle power of subterfuge.
Learn how to make life work for you by visiting The Manipulation Game.
Melissa Borneo
The Manipulation Game Staff Writer
Peacemaker Personality Orientation
