Mind WondersPlay

The 48 Laws of PowerPower

The Friend Who Asks Too Many Questions

Friendly curiosity can be information gathering in disguise

A friendly new colleague asks one more question. What could your answer reveal that you never meant to share?

You'll find out

  • The detail behind a casual question
  • A role checked beyond the chat
  • An answer that keeps control

Why it matters

Keep a useful opportunity open while protecting the private details a warm conversation could carry away.

About 3 min6 interactive slides · 5 questionsLesson 20 · Zone 3

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More in this zone

  1. 19PowerThe Kindness That Comes With a BillA sudden gift or an honest confession can be the opening move of a con
  2. 21ManipulationGuilt Is a LeverIf you suddenly feel you owe someone, ask who put that debt there
  3. 22ComplianceThe Foot in the DoorA small yes can make a larger request easier to accept
  4. 23ComplianceThe Door in the FaceAfter a huge request, a smaller one can feel like a favor
  5. 24FlatteryFlattery Has an AgendaPraise can sway a judgment even when its sales motive is obvious
  6. 25Pressure TacticsUrgency Is a Red FlagPressure to decide immediately can crowd out the checks that protect you
  7. 26ManipulationMoving the GoalpostsWhen the requirements keep changing, your effort can become a chase
  8. 27ManipulationHow Being Manipulated FeelsConfused, guilty or rushed? Those feelings can help you spot pressure