Many of the people gate agents deal with are complaining; you'll stand out if you're friendly and polite. (inc.com)
Or, if you REALLY want to get on the plane first, gate agents sometimes offer to sell A 1 - 15 boarding positions for $ 40. (travelcodex.com)
If you didn't, you could maybe flash your card at the gate and try to sweet talk your way on board with a friendly gate agent, but there were no guarantees. (creditcards.com)