

FBI Agent Melissa Fortunato: Stop Overthinking and Just Start Asking
Dec 13, 2024
Melissa Fortunato, an accomplished FBI agent with 23 years of experience in negotiations and undercover operations, shares her gripping stories and insights. She emphasizes the importance of starting conversations without overthinking and adapting questions on the fly. The discussion reveals how empathy and trust are crucial for building cooperative relationships. Fortunato also highlights her unconventional undercover strategies and the benefits of diverse perspectives in negotiations, reminding listeners that effective listening can transform tough conversations.
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The Wedding Undercover Operation
- Melissa Fortunato, an FBI agent, shares a story about an undercover operation where she had to pretend to get married to another agent.
- This allowed them to build trust with targets and gather intelligence, leading to a successful case closure.
Value of Diversity in Negotiation
- Diversity in teams, including gender, background, and approach, is crucial for successful negotiations.
- Different perspectives allow for a more comprehensive understanding and create opportunities for connection.
Gender Dynamics in Negotiation
- Melissa describes a 15-hour barricade situation where a male officer's approach escalated the situation.
- Her softer, question-based approach de-escalated the situation, allowing for communication and a safer resolution.