Professor Jeffrey Pfeffer from Stanford University said, “There’s no such thing as too much flattery.”
I agree. I tell you all to kipas, bukannya jilat!
You see, power loves recognition. It’s not about being fake. It’s about being strategic.
A little validation smooths friction, builds trust, and buys you space to make real change.
So yes, praise genuinely and publicly when it matters. Influence starts with access.
Recognise their wins, their guidance, or the opportunity they gave you.
I’m sure you can find something to praise. Look harder. Everyone likes to feel useful.
And seriously, try to avoid criticising people who hold more power than you.
Look, logic doesn’t always win, but egos do.
So next time, don’t straight out kutuk, “That won’t work!”
Try softening the blow, like… “That’s an interesting angle. Maybe we can also explore an alternative approach?”
You can disagree, just do it diplomatically.
Know when to speak, when to listen, and when to let others think it was their idea.
People promote people who they trust, not people who constantly challenge them without tact.
Think about it.
xoxoxo
