I mean, to illustrate, note that this is a social technique I use generally.
If I’m introduced to a group of people, it’s often in a context where a particular person already has some significance to me – let’s say it’s the boss just as an example.
I could directly speak to him/her but I am aware that that’s often the person many people are fighting for attention from. So I can fit in better in the group, and set a more positive impression to all, if I talk to other people first.
Am I trying to “wear down the boss’ confidence?” No.