Manipulators in the Workplace

How to Recognize Gaslighting, Power Games, and Subtle Manipulation at Work. The Hidden Tactics Coworkers and Bosses Use to Control, Influence, and Undermine You

By: John Badman

Narrated by: Valorium Audio

Do you ever walk away from a conversation at work feeling confused, guilty, or like you suddenly owe someone something?

Ever had your ideas stolen, your boundaries ignored, or your competence quietly questioned?

Tired of sensing that something is “off,” but you can’t quite prove it so you just doubt yourself instead?

Most workplace manipulation isn’t loud, obvious, or openly hostile. It’s subtle and strategic. It happens in praise that feels too warm, apologies that don’t resolve anything, favors that come with invisible strings, and conversations where you start confident and end confused. Manipulators don’t need authority to control you - they just need access to your emotions.
Manipulators in The Workplace give you a simple, practical system to recognize manipulation in real time, stay calm, and protect your boundaries and reputation. It shows you exactly what to look for and what to say so you regain control the moment you see the game.

You don’t need to become cold, combative, or paranoid to protect yourself. And you don’t have to “fight” anyone to win. You just need to understand the game because once you can see the tactics clearly, they lose their power.

Take back your clarity, your confidence, and your career.

©2025 John Badman (P)2025 John Badman

A Reality Check for Office Politics

This book clearly breaks down how manipulation shows up in everyday workplace interactions, often in ways we don’t notice until it’s too late. The strength of the book is its clarity and relatable scenarios, making it easy to recognize manipulative behavior without overthinking everything. While it doesn’t go very deep psychologically, it offers practical awareness and simple strategies that actually help. A useful read for anyone who wants to stay professional while protecting their boundaries at work.

Protect Yourself Without Losing Your Cool

This book explains the sneaky ways people manipulate coworkers and situations, in a way that’s easy to understand and apply. Some parts feel a bit repetitive, but the examples are relatable, and the advice on staying professional while setting boundaries is solid. A practical read for anyone who wants to navigate workplace politics more confidently.

Practical Guide to Office Politics

Manipulators in the Workplace is straightforward and easy to follow, showing how manipulation can quietly influence decisions and relationships at work. The examples feel realistic, though some points are repeated. Still, it gives useful tips on spotting toxic behaviors and protecting yourself without overreacting. A helpful read for anyone who wants to stay aware and professional in tricky work environments.

A Survival Manual for Modern Offices

Manipulators in the Workplace highlights the subtle behaviors that slowly undermine trust and confidence at work. The writing is clear and relatable, making it easy to recognize patterns you may have already experienced. While the book can feel repetitive at times, it offers useful reminders about boundaries, awareness, and self-control. A helpful read if you want to stay sharp and protected in a challenging work environment.

Understanding Power Plays at Work

This book breaks down workplace manipulation in a clear, realistic way that feels grounded in everyday office life. The examples are easy to relate to and help you recognize tactics you may have ignored or normalized. While some ideas are repeated, the focus on awareness and calm, professional responses makes the book genuinely useful. A strong read for anyone who wants to protect their career without becoming defensive or cynical.