I tend to disagree with the phrase "imitation is the sincerest form of flattery". I think it simply means you are a copy cat. You can not think for yourself so you are ripping off something I did well. What I do consider a sincere form of flattery, is asking for my help or opinion on something. I think it is the greatest compliment anyone can give me is to ask my opinion on something. It shows me that you value you my thoughts and perspective, that you respect my point of view enough to consider it for your said task.
Now having said that, many people ask for someone's opinion to blow smoke up their @$$ because they know that the person will feel included in the decision making process or they ask for the sake of asking, but have no actual intent of hearing what the person has to say or offer. Only if the request for help is genuine is it indicative of respect and regard, otherwise it can actually be insulting.
On the other hand, the icing for this cake of flattery is when the person asking for the help, opinion, or insight is some one you revere yourself. It can just feel like the ala mode to your apple pie. If someone you consider accomplished in their personal or professional lives deems you worthy of helping or discussing something with them, it is one of the best feelings in the world. You are undoubtly overwhelmed with a sense of pressure to perform or deliver a great opinion or insight on the matter, but the fact that some one you believe to not need much assistance and is usually offering guidance to others, has now done the same to you. This elation can only get better when your insight or opinion is implemented. If they put into motion your suggestions, they not only think of your insight as intelligent or beneficial, but so much so that it impacted the outcome. Seeing the fruits of your labor is rewarding, but seeing the joy your help has brought another makes you feel like you can fly.
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