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4. Plug into your networks As you apply these tips in your life, you
On the flip side, remember to also listen to want to be wary of becoming an armchair
others. To avoid falling into a manipulator’s pscyhologist. Anyone can have a bad day
web, tap into the network of those around you – and everyone has. Instead of diagnosing
who share a link to the person in question. friends, partners and colleagues based on
See if you can gather references regarding what you think might be their underlying
their behaviour over the long term. Ideally, you personality traits, focus on any bad
can benefit from others’ knowledge, without behaviours you personally witness, and
having to learn the hard way. respond to the actions – not what you
think underlies them. Best leave that to the
5. Be aware of your own biases professionals.
Don’t underestimate the strength of a dark If you are in charge of organisations or teams,
personality’s machinations. When someone consider having clear guidance and pathways
shares a personal story of betrayal, be wary of communication for individuals to report
of thinking, “that would never happen to me!” any concerning behaviour they witness.
Dark personalities are experts in manipulating By working together and sharing collective
situations to serve their interests, and you experiences, the rest of us can shine light
may never notice you’re ensnared until it’s too on the workplace misdeeds of those with
late. Considering yourself too smart or savvy antagonistic personalities.
to ever find yourself in the same predicament
is misguided.
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