Most elders had to be a** kissers or yes men. That is exactly what the org is looking for. They are not looking for someone who is free spirited or can think for themselves. Even if it was just an act on the part of the perspective elder, there had to be at least a little bit of smooching and head bobbing.
You could level that charge at anyone wanting to advance in any organisation, whether it be religious or career related.
The majority of elders, I'll admit, do fit your description, but there are elders out there who are good public speakers, very empathetic and are all round nice people. There was certainly one or two of them in my old congregation.
As with most things, sweeping generalisations are a bad thing.