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20111221 Harvard Business Review

Harvard Business Review, December 2011

Case Study

Can Nice Guys Finish First? by Jeffrey Pfeffer

Page 133,

..."Merwyn said what?" Sarah asked when Adam told her the story. "That is the most condescending, infantilizing thing I ever heard." She managed to say this with a lilt in her voice and a sparkle in her eye.

   Adam was at a loss for words. How could he begin to explain the depth of his respect and admiration for Merwyn, who was teaching him everything there was to know about the event-planning business--and who constantly sang Adam's praises and promoted his career?

   Adam looked at Kaleeb, who signaled with a nod that he understand completely: Sarah just didn't get it about mentors and protégés.

   "I remember when you introduced me to him," Sarah said, "and he told me all about how you're like a son to him, blah blah blah."

   "Sarah, please," Kaleeb said. "Talk about something else. I'm getting Adam another drink."

   "There's nothing wrong with being treated like a son," Adam said...

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