Highly Effective Tactics
Day 4 - The “Mirror Them” Tactic: Reflection or Deception?
Why This Matters:
Let’s be honest—mirroring someone’s body language might sound harmless, even like a smart way to build rapport. But when you think about it, it’s also kind of weird, isn’t it? 🤔
The Tactic:
Mirroring subtly involves adopting a similar posture and position to the person you’re negotiating with. The idea is that by mimicking their body language, you can create a subconscious connection, making them feel like you’re ‘just like them.’
But here’s the thing: Is it genuine? Or is it just manipulation disguised as empathy?
The Weirdness Factor:
Think about it—how would you feel if you knew someone outside of work was deliberately mirroring your every move, trying to be more like you? Would you trust them more, or would it send a shiver down your spine? It probably should.
Psychopaths often mirror their targets. They profess to have similar morals and values, and their personalities can seem oddly familiar. (Yes, that’s a real trait of a psychopath, by the way.)
So, what kind of person would succeed at this tactic in a corporate setting? Have you ever noticed a shapeshifter in the office, someone who seems to blend in no matter who they’re talking to?
The Risks:
This tactic works precisely because it’s hard to notice—until it isn’t. When you finally catch on that someone’s been subtly mirroring you, it can feel unsettling, even creepy. The trust you may have felt can quickly evaporate, leaving you questioning their motives.
Questions to Ponder:
• How have you felt about someone being genuine or not when they seem to mirror your behavior?
• Would you trust someone who’s known for mirroring others outside of work, or would that person scare you?