I've climbed that "ladder of success" only to find it lonely at the top and leaning against the wrong wall. I have worked with, hired, and fired, many with this attitude. They are self centered with an "it's all about me," attitude. On projects they care about progress for progress sake, and less about real lasting achievements. Quality in their work is their nemesis. Team members with differing opinions no matter how relevant are seen as obstacles in their personal path to success. And most importantly since they have set a blistering schedule to their own retirement, they have little time to make their own contribution preferring mostly to stand on the achievements of others.

As far as the B.S. part I can smell it on THEM, 5 seconds into an interview