In project management, not every problem is technical. Some are deeply human—rooted in pride, perception, and the need to save face. Years ago, I was called in to resolve a stalled multinational project involving an Italian-based MNC. The Project Manager had tried multiple times to engage the client’s Project Director, but was met with silence and resistance—the reason: the Italian Project Director’s pride was wounded by a technical suggestion from our seasoned site supervisor.

The Managing Director asked me to step in—not just as a senior manager, but as a strategist. The solution? Strategic empathy, face-saving negotiation, and tactical positioning.

🎯 The Tactical Blueprint: Plan A & Plan B

Before the meeting, I sat down with our Project Manager. I listened, validated his approach, and then offered a layered strategy:

• Plan A: He would lead the conversation. I’d observe silently, giving him full autonomy to resolve the issue. This was his moment to earn trust

• Plan B: If Plan A failed, I’d step in. He would take the blame for any dissatisfaction, allowing the client to save face. This wasn’t manipulation—it was strategic empathy

| “The supreme art of war is to subdue the enemy without fighting.” — Sun Tzu

🤝 The Meeting: Positioning, Perception, and Pivoting

The Project Manager introduced me as the Personal Assistant to the MD, the right-hand man of the boss—a senior management figure. The Italian Project Director softened immediately: “So it’s like the boss is here.” That shift in perception opened a door.

Plan A failed. The client remained hostile. So I activated Plan B.

I took over the discussion, acknowledged the tension, and subtly allowed the client to reclaim dignity. Once his pride was restored, the ice melted. We returned to the table—together.

|"In negotiation, never cut what you can untie.” — Robert Mnookin

🌱 The Outcome: Trust, Resolution, and Strategic Praise

We reached an agreement. The project resumed. Before leaving, I publicly praised our Project Manager—reinforcing his credibility and dedication. That final gesture sealed the trust.

💡 Mentorship Takeaways for Gen-Z Founders & Strategists

• Face-saving ≠ weakness — it’s strategic empathy

• Observe before you intervene — empower others to lead

• Positioning matters — titles and introductions shift dynamics

• Praise publicly, correct privately — build loyalty and morale

• Always have a Plan B — but let Plan A breathe first

📩 Final Note: Let’s Solve It Together

If you're facing a challenging problem—whether it's stalled negotiations, leadership dynamics, or mentoring aspiring successors—reach out to me. I specialize in strategic clarity, emotional resonance, and founder-focused solutions.

Together, we’ll turn obstacles into opportunities.

Here are three authoritative, high-impact links that complement my article’s themes of strategic empathy, negotiation, and mentorship for your read:

🔗 Curated Third-Party References

1. Emotion and the Art of Negotiation – Harvard Business Review

Explores how emotional intelligence and empathy shape negotiation outcomes.
📎 Read on HBR

“Negotiations can be fraught with emotion, but it’s only recently that researchers have examined how particular feelings influence what happens during deal making.”

2. The Art of 21st-Century Leadership – McKinsey & Company

Outlines leadership traits for navigating complexity, including cross-cultural sensitivity and strategic positioning.
📎 Explore McKinsey’s insights

“Complicated times demand great leaders… Leading a global organization in today’s fragmented world is more difficult than ever.”

3. Managing Conflict Resolution Effectively – Psychology Today

Offers practical guidance on assertiveness, boundaries, and emotional safety in conflict resolution—perfect for mentorship framing.
📎 View Psychology Today article

“Assertiveness and boundaries are a powerful combination for managing conflict… When conflicts are managed constructively, it can help build trust in relationships.”