Everyday Office Jargon · Associate level

"Run it up the flagpole"

"Run it up the flagpole" means to present an idea to senior leadership or management to see whether they approve of or support it.

Say this instead: get sign-off

How "Run it up the flagpole" shows up at work

A relic from mid-century American management culture that refuses to retire. Used by people who want to sound collegial about seeking approval from above, when they could simply say "I need sign-off."

Buzzword

It's an interesting concept. Let's run it up the flagpole and see what leadership thinks.

Plain English

It's an interesting concept. Let's get sign-off from leadership and see what they think.

Corporate Rank: Associate  ·  Category: Everyday Office Jargon

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