That’s what a coachee told me during a recent session. He was frustrated, feeling like “playing the game” meant losing his integrity.
But here is the hard truth I shared with him:
Engagement is NOT boot-licking.
Many professionals stall their careers because they confuse “strategic visibility” with “sycophancy.” Here is the difference:
– Boot-licking is about ego, empty flattery, and self-interest. It’s hollow.
– Positive Engagement is about business value, alignment, and mutual support. It’s foundational.
If you aren’t engaging with your stakeholders (including your manager), you aren’t “staying pure”—you’re becoming invisible.
True Positive Engagement looks like this:
– Value-First: You aren’t just talking; you’re solving problems in the business context.
– Reciprocity: You are building a network that supports others as much as it supports you.
– Diversity of Thought: You’re bringing new ideas to the table, not just nodding your head.
– Strategic Alignment: You ensure your work actually matters to the people leading the organisation.
The Bottom Line: Don’t let the fear stop you from building the professional relationships you need to succeed.
Invest in people. Add value. Build the network.
What’s your “litmus test” for the difference between networking and boot-licking?
If this resonates with you, explore how executive coaching can accelerate your growth
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