Many bad ideas and projects are pursued via lobbying, and personal requests often harm the public good. Some requests are made with no genuine intention of being fulfilled—not just out of dishonesty, but from cunning, as people use these situations to their own advantage. Some take up requests simply to appear helpful or to claim credit if the issue progresses through someone else’s efforts. Others meddle in requests to block someone else, gather information under false pretences, or turn another person’s business into an opportunity for themselves. Even worse, some take on requests fully intending to abandon them later, as a way to win favour with the opposing party.
Every request has some element of fairness—whether it’s about resolving a dispute or rewarding someone who deserves recognition. If you find yourself drawn to support the wrong side of a dispute, it’s better to push for a compromise than to back injustice. And if you favour someone less deserving, do it without criticising the more worthy candidate.
In matters you don’t fully understand, it’s wise to delegate decisions to someone trustworthy and knowledgeable who can advise you on whether involvement would honour your reputation. However, be cautious in choosing your advisors, or you may be misled. Many people grow frustrated with delays and dishonesty. Being upfront—either declining involvement early or delivering honest results—is not only respectable but also appreciated. Never claim more credit than you deserve.
When someone brings a matter to your attention, their early involvement should be acknowledged, but they shouldn’t dominate the situation. If their insights couldn’t have been gained elsewhere, ensure they are fairly recognised without exploiting their discovery. Ignoring the true merit of a request reflects poor judgment, just as failing to understand its value shows naivety.
Secrecy is a powerful tool when handling requests. Sharing plans too soon can discourage allies or embolden opponents. Timing, however, is even more critical—both in approaching the person who can grant your request and in anticipating those who may try to block it.
When choosing someone to mediate your request, prioritise skill and suitability over influence. Specialists in the matter at hand are far more effective than generalists. Even a rejection can be as valuable as success if you handle it with grace, showing neither disappointment nor bitterness.
The old saying, “Ask for what’s unreasonable, so you might achieve what’s fair,” is good advice when you have strong backing. But if your position is weak, it’s better to moderate your demands. Those who risk too much at the start often lose not just the favour they sought but also the goodwill they once had.
Finally, while influential people often grant favours, such as letters of recommendation, doing so for unworthy causes harms their reputation. Beware of those who make a career out of engineering requests; they poison public dealings and corrupt honest proceedings.
Be honest, fair, and focused on results rather than manipulation—this is how you maintain integrity while navigating the complexities of influence and favour.
Bacon Blueprint 