Английский словарь американских идиом - play one's cards right

or play one's cards well {v. phr.}, {informal} To use abilities and opportunities so as to be successful; act cleverly; make the best use of your place or skills. * /That millionaire started with very little but showed a skill in playing his cards right./ * /People liked Harold, and he played his cards well - and soon he began to get ahead rapidly./