What some phrases could actually mean.

We have zero tolerance for...: An expressive phrase that denotes a ‘no nonsense' approach to matters. In many cases, works with differing intensity at differing levels of hierarchy. In essence, a moveable zero point for tolerance that can be set in proportion to hierarchical pre-eminence — the higher you go, the higher your zero point!

Merit is the only criterion for success: This is entirely true. However, one needs to understand that the word merit can take many avatars. We make the mistake of assuming that merit relates only to performance; that is wrong. Being related to the boss, being an ardent and passionate devotee of those in power, being well networked ... all these and many more such attributes confer great merit as well. Not appreciating the many forms of merit will surely lead to sub-optimal results.

(To be continued)

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