Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Organizational Leadership Practice Test

What is the term used for a follower's effort to project a favorable image to gain immediate benefits or improve long-term relationships with leaders?

1. Self Promotion

2. Ingratiation

3. Social Capital

4. Followership

The correct answer is: Ingratiation

The term that describes a follower's effort to project a favorable image in order to gain immediate benefits or enhance long-term relationships with leaders is ingratiation. This behavior involves actions that can create a positive impression, such as agreeing with leaders, flattery, or doing favors that are designed to earn favor or approval. Ingratiation is particularly strategic as it not only seeks short-term advantages but also aims to build a deeper, more trusting relationship over time. Understanding ingratiation is important because it highlights how interpersonal dynamics in an organizational context can be influenced both positively and negatively. This can lead to better teamwork, improved communication, and a more harmonious work environment when used ethically, while also presenting challenges if it devolves into manipulation or deceit. The other terms, while related to aspects of leadership and relationships, do not specifically encapsulate the act of projecting a favorable image for improvement of relationships or gaining benefits in the same focused manner as ingratiation does.