Biz
Sage
“Never do an enemy a
small injury.”
- Niccolo Machiavelli
If you have ever gone hunting, you know that when you
shoot at something, you better make it count. You always have
to go for the kill, because there is nothing more dangerous
than being in the area of a wounded animal. When a wild
animal is injured, it becomes unpredictable and you have no
way of knowing what it will do next. It turns out that
business situations are no different.
Niccolo Machiavelli is one of the main founders of
political science, and his teachings of “never trust anyone”
unfortunately apply to the business world. He instructs every
leader to be prepared for any situation. The modern political
word, “Machiavellianism”, which means the use of cunning
and deceitful practices in politics, was derived from his
surname.
Business peers and adversaries can both be deceptive,
and those whom you think are allies can and will jump to the
other side. You need to be ready for when your business
partner suddenly decides to open a competing company right
next door, or when your best friend steals your best
account.
When it does happen, Machiavelli suggests that you take
no prisoners. If you choose to take them on, you need
to incapacitate your foes completely. So when your best
client jumps ship to your worst enemy, work hard to make
that client regret this decision by doing outstanding work for
all your other existing clients. This will be your best
revenge and will not only sustain, but also boost your
reputation.
The Sage is the wise
philosopher who provides thought-provoking and inspirational
words for those on their business journey to success. Here is
a perspective advice to all professionals, business
executives, and entrepreneurs. The daily entries in this
section are organised according to a specific aspect of
business life like people management, leadership, or
entrepreneurial skills. Each entry will be provided by
famous business figures that can be applied to your life and
business. These words of encouragement are also meant to be
used as a guide.