Flattery Can Get You Everywhere

We have been told that flattery will get you nowhere, but it’s not so.

If done correctly, flattery is an extremely powerful tool. Everyone wants to hear nice things about themselves. It is human nature. It helps create relationships by making people feel better than they did before you flattered them. If done correctly and effectively, it breaks down barriers, makes people more comfortable, stimulates conversation and supports the possibility of the subject liking you in return.

Identify positive aspects the person has, or is demonstrating, or has shown in the past, and emphasize the these truths. Compliment one truthfully, flatter them in ways that are actually valid and relevant and it will be successful. You must base your flattery on the truth. It is OK to exaggerate but bold-faced, made up flattery is not only transparent but counterproductive. It will backfire and cause anger, insult, and creation of a barrier that did not even exist, preventing any relationship from being formed at all.

Yes, flattery will work if there is a foundation of truth. Make it up and you risk disaster. This applies to any business situation and to personal relationship building as well. Flattery, when done effectively, works very well.