Flattery Is Fine—Just Don’t Inhale It

A note to young leaders.

Flattery is OK … unless you inhale.

And the best way to avoid inhalation is to laugh.

Legend has it that prior to delivering a speech to an American university, Winston Churchill was introduced with hyperbolic praise.

Churchill ambled to the lectern, paused theatrically, then declared in his polished British accent: “After listening to my introduction, I must confess … I can’t wait to hear what I have to say.”

With one line, he called “bullshit” on the flattery – no one is ever as good as their hagiography – and at once made himself more likeable and more relatable to his American audience.

Don’t perform to praise. Puncture it. Whatever you do, don’t inhale – it will be for your ruin.

And if you’re ever handed an overcooked intro, try Churchill’s line – it’s a great way to pop the bubble without pricking the mood.