Hi, John - thanks for an interesting and very valuable post on an important aspect of workplace success.

I believe that I have heard management and leadership (and the people who exercise either function) held up as the reason why something cannot be done more often than anything else.  Apparently many bosses have so much influence that their mere non-support can kill valuable ideas and initiatives.

You have not only identified this issue in more detail and depth, but have come up with some strong recommendations for how to improve relationships with those a little further up the food chain.

If more people read and reflect on what you are saying, and then actually try to "manage up", rather than manipulate their bosses, I do believe we would all win a few more workplace "battles".

Thanks again for more very helpful leadership wisdom.

John