It's sometimes a delicate dance for all of us. Most of the time, though, I get it right... as long as I don't focus on my elbows.

In one case study, "Ralph" boasts outstanding feedback, exceeds all his targets and has a perfect implementation record, yet loses out to an ambitious rival with "sharp elbows".

We all remember the basics our mothers taught us about table manners–no elbows on the dinner table and don’t talk with your mouth full.