“I’ll look into it.”
“Let me circle back.”
“I’ll give it a try.”

We’ve all heard these lines. Some of us have even said them (we’re not proud, just honest). These phrases are the grown-up version of your parents’ “Maybe”—which, let’s be real, meant no.

Fake buy-in is professional deflection with a polite bow. It feels like commitment, but really, it’s just ambiguity in a business suit.

But here’s where it gets interesting: the way we respond to fake buy-in? That’s where leadership shows up.

✨ Want to combat the ghosting of good ideas?
Try these respectful accountability nudges:
🔁 “Awesome—what’s the timeline you’re thinking for that?”
📌 “Great—how can I support you in getting started?”
📅 “Should we schedule a check-in to see how it’s going?”
🔍 “What’s your first step so we can track movement?”

💡 And here’s the kicker: L&D can help shape this culture from the inside out.
When leaders demonstrate clarity, follow-through, and thoughtful communication, their teams absorb it. It becomes the rhythm. The spirit of the leader becomes the spirit of the group.

Learning and development isn’t just about new skills—it’s about new norms. Let’s build the habit of real buy-in, not just better buzzwords.