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.