> "Hey boss, why don’t we try [insert random tactic that competitors are doing]?"<p>Sure, this is not the optimal way to pitch to a manager. But why wouldn't the manager be able to point out it isn't a good idea _without discouraging the pitcher_? Why not start / continue the conversation by responding with a question — "Sounds awesome, what would be the benefits short term?" ... "And how about the long term?" ... "Do you also see downsides?".<p>Sounds like the discouraging part in the articles' examples is mostly the about the manager failing to rigorously communicate about the "management-internal" conversation that leads to rejection...