also: ブタもおだてりゃきにのぼる
expression, godan verb (-ru)
flattery will motivate anyone; even a pig will climb a tree if flattered
Proverb meaning that with enough flattery, even someone unlikely or incapable can be persuaded to do something difficult. Often used humorously.
He's not good at cooking, but as they say, even a pig will climb a tree if flattered—if you praise him, he might actually try hard.
「豚もおだてりゃ木に登る」というから、あの無気力な新人も、うまく持ち上げればやる気を出すかもしれない。
They say 'even a pig will climb a tree if flattered,' so maybe that unmotivated new hire will get motivated if we butter him up right.