{{B}}Fooled by Flattery{{/B}}
Being swept along by their followers isn't the only form of influence that leaders need to be wary of. Sometimes, follower influence takes the subtler and gentler form of ingratiation. Must people learn very early in life that a good way to get people to like you{{U}} (31) {{/U}}to show that you like them. Flattery, favors, and frequent compliments all tend to win people{{U}} (32) {{/U}}Leaders, naturally, like those who like them and are more apt to let those they are fond of influence them.
For their part, followers think that{{U}} (33) {{/U}}on the boss's good side gives them some measure of job security. Indeed, a recent study indicated{{U}} (34) {{/U}}successful ingratiators gained a 5% edge over other employees in performance evaluations. This kind of margin by{{U}} (35) {{/U}}won't get someone ahead, but in a competitive market, it might{{U}} (36) {{/U}}tip the scale toward one of two people up for a promotion.
Everyone loves a sincere compliment, but those who already think highly{{U}} (37) {{/U}}themselves are most susceptible to flattery's charms. Gratuitous ingratiation can create a subtle shift in a leader's attitude toward power. Instead of viewing power as{{U}} (38) {{/U}}to be used in the service of the organization, clients, and stakeholders, the leader treats it as a tool to further personal interests, sometimes at the expense of others in and outside the organization.{{U}} (39) {{/U}}happens as a leader starts to truly believe his press and comes to feel more entitled{{U}} (40) {{/U}}privileges than others.