This article explores the enduring prevalence of sycophancy in corporate environments despite its acknowledged pitfalls. It examines instances of leaders, including Donald Trump, reacting to both blatant and subtle forms of flattery. The author argues that while appearing loyal can be tempting, it's often ineffective and may even backfire. Instead, the article suggests focusing on visibility and effectively communicating with superiors.
Everyone loathes a sycophant. Management experts warn about the poisonous influence of the flatterer. Academics cite the business risks of being surrounded by servile toadies. Leaders insist they are never swayed by suck-ups. And yet sucking up persists. Why? Because it works. Or rather, it works often enough to justify the indignities involved.
“I believe you don’t know me as well as my fellow panellists,” said Santander’s Ana Botín as she told Trump that her bank was large and had 170mn customers. “That’s more than my friend Brian or Jamie ,” she added to laughter and applause, before briskly asking Trump how fast he would meet his vows to deregulate and cut bureaucracy. Trump told Botín he knew her bank well and “you’ve done a fantastic job”.
SYCOPHANCY LEADERSHIP CORPORATE CULTURE MANAGEMENT COMMUNICATION
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
What's going on in the markets and should we be worried?Sky News's Paul Kelso explains why borrowing costs are going up and why it matters.
Read more »
The office sycophant will always be with usBut the early days of the Trump administration highlight the pitfalls of sucking up
Read more »
Sydenham Bypass Resurfacing Works to Resume in BelfastResurfacing works on the Sydenham Bypass in Belfast will resume on Monday 6 January, with lane closures and traffic diversions in place. The project is expected to last until early March 2025.
Read more »
Former Glasgow Electricity Works Could Become Cash and Carry WholesalerPlans have been submitted to Glasgow City Council to transform part of the listed former St Andrew's Works complex into a cash and carry wholesaler. The B-listed property, built in 1900, has seen various uses over the years, including a printing works and an archive storage facility. The proposed development would focus on a single-storey shed at the rear of the building, which has recently been used as a warehouse by a film production company.
Read more »
Nottingham Junction Works Resume, Businesses Feel the ImpactMajor roadworks at a busy Nottingham junction have resumed, causing continued disruption for businesses and commuters.
Read more »
Nottingham Traffic Chaos Continues as Busy Junction Transformation Works ResumeRoadworks at a major Nottingham junction have resumed, causing further disruption to businesses and commuters. The transformation of the Maid Marian Way roundabout into a T-junction, though now complete, has led to complaints about increased traffic and accessibility issues.
Read more »