[masterof0]

I agree, I find those "strategies" on how to talk to your manager , incredibly cringe. What I have worked out for me in 2 FAANGs and 2 regular unknown companies, is working hard, getting things done, when I achieve something that can be shown to other people, I do show it and talk to my manager about compensation, and if I want to move up, I let him know that, I tell him what I think is my timeline for that; if he disagrees, his problem , I find a better place to work, the market for engineers is very competitive. I don't need to be simp-ing to my manager. I think if you keep your relationship with your manager honest and always use a clear, bs free, communication channel with him, you will achieve great things. Managers are just people like you, don't be afraid to leave a bad manager.