With many people, there is a distinct need to feel important. Without this feeling fulfilled, a person often suffers from self-doubt, guilt, insecurity and low self-worth. Those same people will go to great lengths to maintain a good reputation, or to demonstrate that they are needed, or to gain a bit of self-esteem, or to prove their superiority, or to show that they're right, or even to meet a challenge presented to them. If you diplomatically satisfy these areas to such ego-oriented people, you become master over any situation with them. Their emotional mind loves it, and their logical mind is suspended.
As a daily exercise, exhibit a little thought when you handle your next people situation, and see how well it works.
"If it wasn't for your astute judgment, the efficiency of the company certainly wouldn't be as high. It sure is fortunate that you keep everyone on their toes."
"You 're the best example I know of someone doing the best he can in any situation. Therefore I know that whatever decision you make, it'll be a good one."
As a further exercise, work with a friend and alternate with each other on skillful, ego-boosting remarks based on the principles outlined above. In actual situations, they will work wonderfully, and they will seem a lot less artificial. You'll be delighted and surprised.