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ers to control events or circumstances out of their realm of influence. You'll wear a grudge in your manner and voice. |
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Tip 176: Don't create obligations among others to enhance your sense of power. |
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Have you ever bought someone lunch when it was raining and nasty outside so they'd "owe you one" in a meeting later that day? The President buys congressional votes on the current legislation by offering to play golf with senators. |
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Large or small, the problem with such arrangements is that they build resentment in those who feel obligated. It's like being a tax cheat and worrying when you're going to find the IRS on your doorstep to collect. |
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Tip 177: Credit your source for new ideas. |
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It's not a matter of split-the-appreciation pie. Others may get credit for the idea, but you get credit for knowing when, where, why, how, and if to use the idea in any given circumstances. |
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It's much safer to make your source known up front than to take credit and have others discover the truth later and point out the idea's true origin. Preachers, playwrights, and politicians through the years could have headed off charges of plagiarism had they taken this tip to heart. Those who can push their ideas through to the top via another individual and still get credit continue to flood ideas on those who shower them with praise in return. |
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Tip 178: Ask for others' opinions. |
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Asking for an opinion from someone doesn't obligate you to act on that opinion. But the fact that you have asked others to contribute to decisions has value to both you and the other person. The President's multiple advisers for every decision feel honored to offer their views whether or not he acts on them. Consider the pride with which citizens tell about being asked to testify before Congress about a personal experience or career expertise. Simply having someone ask for an opinion is a compliment. |
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Tip 179: Respond to what's right with suggestions even if you can't use them. |
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Consider it a sign of interest and helpfulness when others offer you suggestions. Respond in kind: "Thanks for mentioning that. You've got a good |
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