Let the Other Person Save Face

Key Concepts

  • Preserving Dignity and Self-Esteem: Letting someone save face is crucial in interactions, especially in sensitive situations like correcting mistakes or ending employment. It prevents the diminished sense of self-worth and promotes goodwill.

  • Impact on Professional Relationships: Handling situations delicately can transform potentially negative experiences into opportunities for strengthening loyalty and enhancing company reputation. Employees retain affection and respect for firms that treat them considerately, even in dismissals.

Practical Advice

  • Tactful Dismissal Practices: When dismissing employees, acknowledging their contributions and assuring them of their value can leave them feeling respected despite the loss of their job. This approach can encourage them to return in future seasons or maintain goodwill toward the company.

  • Handling Mistakes with Sensitivity: In cases of error, focus on the person’s potential and past achievements rather than the mistake itself. Encouraging and showing trust in their abilities can boost confidence and commitment to better performance.

Examples from the Chapter

  1. General Electric and Charles Steinmetz: Rather than demoting Steinmetz outright, GE assigned him a respectful position that allowed him to retain his dignity while addressing the department's needs effectively.

  2. Marshall A. Granger’s CPA Firm: Modified their approach to seasonal layoffs by complimenting employees’ performance before letting them go, which changed the employees' perceptions and feelings about being let go.

  3. Production Supervisor Incident: A supervisor turned defensively evasive and eventually left the company after a vice president aggressively criticized him publicly, showcasing the negative long-term impact of not preserving an employee’s dignity.

  4. Anna Mazzone’s Test-Marketing Error: Rather than reprimanding her, Mazzone's boss publicly supported her, emphasizing his confidence in her abilities despite the mistake, which significantly strengthened her determination and loyalty.

Principle to Follow

  • Principle 5: Let the other person save face. No matter the circumstances, preserving an individual’s self-respect in interactions fortifies relationships, enhances professional respect, and builds a supportive and constructive work environment.