Putting ALL of your cards on the table is a noble approach as a sales professional, right?
In fact, you might use this approach to build integrity and trust with your customers.
However, there are places in your life and career where concealing your intentions will serve the greater good.
Let this next story spark ideas about letting people think they know what you want, try to keep it from you…while not knowing the true target of your desire.
~ Courtesy of The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene
During the War of the Spanish Succession in 1711, the Duke of Marlborough, head of the English army, wanted to destroy a key French fort, because it protected a vital thoroughfare into France. Yet, he knew that if he destroyed it, the French would realize what he wanted — to advance down that road.
Instead, then, he merely captured the fort, and garrisoned it with some of his troops, making it appear as if he wanted it fro some purpose of his own.
The French attacked the fort and the Duke let them recapture it. Once they had it back, though they destroyed it, figuring that the Duke wanted it for some important reason.
Now that the fort was gone, the road was unprotected and Marlborough could easily march into France.