She talked to her boss to soften the ground before asking for a raise.
soften the ground
idiomTo prepare or create favorable conditions (for something), especially with the intent of improving public acceptance of the forthcoming occurrence.
The manager held several informal meetings to soften the ground before announcing the difficult changes to the staff.
By leaking small details of the policy to the press, the government sought to soften the ground for the unpopular legislation they planned to introduce next month.
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common ground
A characteristic or interest shared by multiple people or systems; any belief, etc. held in common.
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ear to the ground
The practice or characteristic of carefully gathering information; a state or mindset of attentiveness.
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eyes on the ground
One or more observers in an area of interest.
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facts on the ground
The situation in reality as opposed to in the abstract.
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from the ground up
From the beginning; starting with the basics, foundation, or fundamentals.
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get off the ground
To succeed or begin to succeed.
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go to ground
To hide from public view or sequester oneself, especially when authorities, members of the news media, or others are looking for one.
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ground ball with eyes
A weakly hit ground ball that barely evades the infielders.