Went outside the other night to exercise the dog, only to be confronted by a 4 foot brown snake.
Fortunately there was no damage done; only to my pride; but the very thought of a snake being present near my home brought some interesting parallels with my business.
Identifying Snakes in Business
Snakes can come in many forms: colleagues, bosses, or even clients who are more concerned with advancing their own interests at the expense of others. They might be charming at first, only to reveal their true nature once they’ve gained your trust. Red flags include:
- Excessive Flattery: They often know how to charm you into a false sense of security.
- Gossiping & Backstabbing: They may talk behind others’ backs to further their own agenda.
- Dishonesty: Snakes frequently manipulate facts, mislead others, or take credit for work they didn’t do.
- Unpredictability: Their behavior can be erratic, keeping others on edge.
How to Deal with Snakes in Business
- Stay Professional: It’s crucial to maintain your composure. Keep your emotions in check and avoid getting dragged into drama.
- Document Everything: Keep records of your interactions with the individual. This will serve as proof if they attempt to manipulate the situation later.
- Set Boundaries: Snakes thrive when they can invade your space or push you around. Be clear about your boundaries and protect your work and time.
- Be Cautious of Trust: While collaboration is key in business, trust should be earned, not freely given. Don’t reveal too much personal information or share sensitive company data until you’re certain of their intentions.
- Seek Allies: It’s important to build relationships with others who can provide support and balance out the manipulations of the snake.
Conclusion
Dealing with snakes in business can be challenging, but staying vigilant, professional, and strategic can help you navigate the toxic behaviors they bring. Remember, not everyone you meet in business has your best interests at heart—learn to spot the snakes, and you’ll be better prepared to thrive in the long run.