cubedemon6073 wrote:
Greentea, how do I obtain the information I need without coming across as argumentative from an NT especially one who is higher up?
The one less powerful is supposed to manipulate the way to fulfilling their needs from the one more powerful in the relationship. This is what I have read and later observed to be correct. However, I know we Aspies tend to take words literally, so please use your own observation and conclusions and logic to guide you, more than my words.
Manipulations often used with doctors/bosses/etc. (I've started using them too):
Flattery (makes them take more kindly to your questions)
Waiting for the right timing (when they're in a good mood, when they owe you a favor, etc.)
Hinting gently at the questions, rather than direct questioning ("So I guess I should...", "I'd like to ask for your counsel...").
Pretend to be humble, ignorant, submissive, insecure.
In general, make them feel big right before you ask your questions, to neutralize their insecurity when being questioned. They're far, far more likely to be cooperative that way. And don't keep on asking if they seem to have had enough, be sensitive to changes in their attitude.
All they want is to continue feeling higher than you in the ladder, and to feel safe that you're not going to challenge them / make them feel stupid / give them a bad reputation for their answers.
Once they feel confident with you, they can be immensely cooperative, and even enjoy showing off their expertise to you.
_________________
So-called white lies are like fake jewelry. Adorn yourself with them if you must, but expect to look cheap to a connoisseur.