Your Nose Color

An odd title, I know!

I wanted to write a little about when it's appropriate to "brown-nose" or boost someone's ego by your words and actions.  This technique becomes significantly important in the workplace, especially if you plan to climb the corporate ladder.

Let's come up with an example:  You've been invited to take over a project that someone else normally facilitates, but that person has a lot on their plate and needs to devote time to other things.  The catch?  This other person doesn't want to give up "his/her" project.  Ok, so how do you make this go smoothly and not step on the other person's toes but still give yourself the room you need to facilitate the project? 

It's all about give and take.  This person doesn't want to share their methods with you; however, you need to know how things were being run previously.  You can suggest that the two of you work together during the initial transition period to maintain the high quality of the project results.  Say that you are eager to learn from this person's experience and background (whether you are or not!).  It's better to accept "help" or collaboration early on so that no feelings are hurt (What!?  There are feelings in the workplace!?) and ensure that you are able to show this person firsthand that you are fully capable of handling the project on your own.  Yes, it means you have to smack a smooch on their behind, but you'll get a lot further with them that way.  Haven't you heard "You attract more flies with honey than vinegar?"