Benjamin Netanyahu, Israel’s longest-serving prime minister, is a political grandmaster. Love him or hate him, you can’t ignore his ability to survive and thrive in the cutthroat world of politics. From media manipulation to psychological warfare, his playbook is packed with genius tricks that can be applied far beyond politics, whether you’re negotiating a raise, leading a group project, or just trying to win an argument at Thanksgiving dinner.
Buckle up! Here are 10 brilliant (and sometimes sneaky) strategies you can learn from the master himself.
1. Control the Narrative Like a Pro
Ever noticed how Netanyahu never lets the media define him? He takes charge of the story before anyone else does. If there’s a controversy, he frames it in a way that benefits him. This is a classic PR move: be the storyteller, not the story.
How to use this: Next time someone tries to pin the blame on you for a group project gone wrong, spin the story. “I took the initiative, but we lacked clear team communication.” See what you did there? You’re not the problem, it’s the system.
2. Master the ‘Us vs. Them’ Strategy
Netanyahu thrives on rallying his base by creating a strong “us vs. them” dynamic. He paints his opponents as threats to security and stability, which keeps his supporters loyal.
How to use this: Leading a student organization? Create a common rival (like bureaucratic red tape or lazy members). Nothing unites people faster than a shared enemy.
3. Turn Attacks Into Strengths
When critics call Netanyahu a “fearmonger,” he flips the script: “I’m not scaring people, I’m protecting them.” By doing this, he transforms an accusation into proof of his leadership.
How to use this: When someone says, “You’re too ambitious,” reply, “I believe in making things happen.”
4. Own the Media (or Find a Way Around It)
Traditional media doesn’t always love Netanyahu, so what does he do? He bypasses them entirely, using social media to speak directly to his audience.
How to use this: Build your own platform! Whether it’s Twitter, LinkedIn, or YouTube, if you control your own messaging, no one can spin it for you.
5. The Power of Repetition
Netanyahu repeats his key messages over and over until they stick. Studies show people start believing something just because they’ve heard it multiple times.
How to use this: Want your boss to remember your idea? Repeat it in meetings, emails, and casual chats. Suddenly, when it gets approved, they think it was their idea. Genius.
6. Be a Crisis Manager, Not a Crisis Victim
When faced with scandal or setbacks, Netanyahu doesn’t crumble, he goes on offense. He doubles down, shifts the focus, or plays the victim card strategically.
How to use this: Got called out for missing a deadline? Don’t panic. Say, “I was prioritizing urgent tasks that impact the whole team.” Boom. Now you’re responsible, not slacking.
7. Leverage Fear (But in a Smart Way)
Netanyahu frequently reminds people of external threats to keep them focused on why they need him.
How to use this: Pitching an idea? Highlight the problem first (“Our competitors are moving fast”) before presenting your solution (“That’s why we need my strategy”).
8. Look Unshakable (Even When You’re Not)
One of Netanyahu’s biggest strengths is his ability to look confident no matter what’s happening behind the scenes.
How to use this: Even if you’re unsure, project confidence. People follow those who seem sure of themselves. A simple trick: slow down your speech and lower your voice slightly, it instantly makes you sound more authoritative.
9. Keep Your Enemies Close
Netanyahu has worked with rivals when it suits him. By keeping them close, he controls them.
How to use this: Have a workplace nemesis? Collaborate on a project. They’ll be too close to undercut you, and you’ll come out looking like a team player.
10. Never Let a Good Crisis Go to Waste
Netanyahu knows that a crisis is an opportunity. He uses tense situations to push through policies and strengthen his position.
How to use this: Next time your department is in chaos, step up. Offer solutions, take initiative, this is your moment to shine.
Want to Master These Strategies? Start Here!
To be a true power player, you need to communicate like a pro. One of the best ways? Master the art of persuasion.
Must-read book: “Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion” by Robert Cialdini. This book is packed with proven tactics used by politicians, CEOs, and marketers. It’s a game-changer for anyone who wants to be more influential.
What’s Your Favorite Power Move?
Which of these tricks do you already use? Got any genius tactics of your own? Drop them in the comments below!