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People who try to manipulate other people are the most selfish people on the planet. They act only for their own benefit and often at the expense of someone else. Although their actions are mean, manipulators often come across as charming and intelligent.
Because manipulators use clever techniques to manipulate you, the ‘victim’ often realizes that something is wrong, but he or she cannot put their finger on it. Below you will find 7 signs that someone is trying to manipulate you:
1. They insist on hearing your ‘story’ first
This is a tactic that many salespeople use and it is often very useful; because just as a salesperson tries to figure out how you think and behave, so does a manipulator. A manipulator wants to hear your story first so that he can immediately identify your weaknesses and strengths. If you suspect that someone is interrogating you, listen to your gut and stand your ground and refuse to expose yourself any further.
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2. They overload you with information with the aim of confusing you
Clever manipulators will overwhelm you with facts (statistics, data, events) that you know little about. This behavior also occurs in business or sales conversations. The manipulator hopes that by doing this he will first confuse you and then gain your trust with his knowledge and that he can control the situation in this way. If you find yourself in such a situation, it is wise to stay close to yourself and walk away if you get the feeling that it is becoming too confusing.
3. They express negative emotions
Some manipulators will raise their voices while aggressively trying to manipulate someone. Manipulators who exhibit this behavior want someone to listen to them and meet their demands and desires. If you find yourself in this situation, it is best to be very clear about your own boundaries or walk away.
4. They try to make you insecure
Insecure people are often the target of manipulators, as insecurity is seen as a weakness by liars and manipulators. Manipulators will find ways to make you feel insecure and inferior through humor and sarcasm, for example. They will target you on your appearance, work, and behavior. Make it clear to a manipulator that this behavior is unacceptable and that you do not appreciate it.
5. They will sometimes act dumber than they are
Pretending to be naive is a secret weapon in the manipulator’s arsenal. This tactic is often used in the office to get out of a certain assignment or to hide something. Children sometimes exhibit this behavior to get something done, unfortunately some adults do it too. Don’t be afraid to call someone out on their bullshit and refuse to take on extra work that is actually part of the manipulator’s job description.
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6. They manipulate facts
Manipulators are also often liars. It is therefore no surprise that they will twist the truth to get what they want. They will blame innocent people, twist things, exaggerate, ‘forget’ to pass on important information or make excuses. But this is also the biggest pitfall of the manipulator because no matter how fast the lie is, the truth will catch up with it.
7. They pressure you
Manipulators will pressure you to get what they want, forcing you to make a decision before you are ready. They will often create a sense of urgency where none exists. Don’t let yourself be pressured, and if someone tries to pressure you, walk away.