Everyday Office Jargon · Managing Director level

"Light a fire under their ass"

"Light a fire under their ass" means to urgently pressure or push someone into moving faster, usually by introducing a consequence or deadline.

Say this instead: push them to act

How "Light a fire under their ass" shows up at work

A Managing Director saying this in a one-on-one is a pretty clear sign the gentler nudges did not work. It signals frustration dressed up as a management technique, and whoever is in the room knows it is about a specific person.

Buzzword

We need to light a fire under their ass before the board meeting.

Plain English

We need to push them hard to move before the board meeting.

Corporate Rank: Managing Director · Category: Everyday Office Jargon

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