First, understand that theatrics matter. All-powerful leaders often frame interactions as symbolic victories rather than substantive discussions. Don’t try to subvert the drama; play your part in it instead. Rather than challenging an omnipotent leader head-on, anchor your ideas as a natural plot in their vision and define yourself as a main character.
Omnipotent leaders are supreme examples of what Daniel Kahneman calls “priming” – the first analysis, interpretation, or version of events often shapes how others perceive the issue. So, try to get in there first and shape the leader’s first impressions and baseline understanding. Remember: whoever speaks first may not own the stage, but they do set it.
Frame feedback to omnipotent leaders that aligns or complements their self-image and add new adornments to it – not with hollow compliments (flattery may yield short-term results but ultimately reinforces erratic behavior), but by reinforcing those grains of character that may support your cause.
Having validated the great one’s leadership and identified legitimate strengths, subtly redirect discussions toward constructive outcomes.
You don’t need to like or agree with an individual to engage with them effectively. Instead, focus on creating a good enough rapport to work together. This means finding something that connects you both and avoiding confrontation.
The last resort is escalation and “full-fight mode”. This strategy may feel good in the moment but rarely works. It should only be used if nothing else works – and is more effective if done in conjunction with other leaders. A well-timed escalation can signal to others that resistance is valid, encouraging them to step forward. When leaders see that opposition is organized, they may reconsider their stance to avoid losing credibility.
In a world where all-powerful leaders set the tempo, the best response is not to resist or comply, but to navigate strategically and psychologically. Speed matters – shape the story before they do and build rapport by finding even small points of agreement. And, if escalation is inevitable, don’t do it alone!
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