The three basic tactics are: go head to head (aka frontal attack); flanking manoeuvre; and bypass manoeuvre. However, here are some advanced tactics you can use that are more subtle and can amplify the effectiveness of the basic tactics. You can use these in any combination.
- Infiltration: Think of the Trojan Horse, or water seeping into a building’s foundations.
- Encroachment: Every day you move imperceptably closer to your opponent’s position.
- Reversal: Use your opponent’s strength to overcome them.
- Undermining: Dig a tunnel under your opponent’s walls and then blow up a mine.
- Diversion: Get your opponent focused somewhere else so you can strike at his weak spot.
- Deception: Pretend to do one thing when you’re really intending to do another.
- Attrition: Wear your opponent down through constant, hit-and-run tactics.
- Psychological warfare: Wear down your opponent’s resolve and undermine his morale.
- Divide and conquer: Split your opponent’s forces and defeat them piecemeal.
Richard Martin is a Master Strategist and Leadership Catalyst. Richard brings his military and business leadership and management experience to bear for executives and organizations seeking to radically improve performance, grow, and thrive in the face of rapid change, harsh competition, and increasing uncertainty.
© 2014 Richard Martin. Reproduction and quotes are permitted with proper attribution.