How can you tell if an employee is just brown nosing?

[Douglas1180]

I was telling my employee I want to buy this house in Virginia.

"Every brick was handmade by a slave," I said. "Every stone laid by a slave. There are even slave quarters in the back. That's why I want to buy it - because it will make me feel quite in touch with my roots," I said.

"Oh yes, sir, I agree, sir," she said.

She didn't even question my obsession with slavery, and mind you, I am a white man.

So, what's something I can ask/tell her to prove she's just brown-nosing?

[BobbieBoy666]

An employee might be brown-nosing if they display excessive flattery, ingratiating behaviors, and insincere compliments towards superiors to gain favor or advance their career. Look for signs like taking credit for others' work, being present when credit is given and absent when blame arises, and seeking to socialize with the boss outside of work.
Here's a more detailed look at the signs:
Excessive Flattery and Ingratiating Behavior:
This involves going above and beyond in showing admiration and respect, often with the goal of gaining favor.
Taking Credit for Others' Work:
Brown-nosers might claim credit for ideas or accomplishments that were not their own.
Present When Credit is Given, Absent When Blame Arises:
They might be quick to associate themselves with successful projects but distance themselves from failures.
Seeking Social Interaction with the Boss:
This could include inviting the boss to dinners, drinks, or holiday parties, often with the intention of building a closer relationship.
Coming in Before and Leaving After the Boss:
This can be seen as a way to subtly show dedication and commitment.
Lack of Genuine Interest in Colleagues:
Brown-nosers might be more focused on impressing superiors than engaging with their peers.
Ignoring Workplace Dynamics:
They might not understand or respect the established hierarchies and norms within the organization.
Potential for Demotivation in Other Employees:
When others see that brown-nosing is rewarded instead of hard work, it can lead to demotivation and a feeling that the workplace is unfair.

[ProbablyClueless]

If they don't ever actually express opinions, or if everything you do is just do wonderful and exactly what they think you should do. That's usually a pretty strong indication.

[purplepoppy]

If they reply with, "the bones of slaves were ground up to make the cement.." the they're probably flirting with you.

[Catailian94]

They tend to do the work only in front of the boss and butter them up.

[Entertained_Adult]

I hope the slaves were white, otherwise you're racist.

[Blueeyes81]

If they talk to you it's brown nosing. Most people won't fuck with their paychecks.

[Flower7]

So did you make up the story about wanting the house? Was it just a test or something?

[Massageman]

Ask a somewhat obscure question about the past of either slavery or that particular home/area.

[Anonymous]

We already knew you were racist. Thanks for the unnecessary post about it.

[exitseven]

If they are the one getting the promotion.