You have no problem talking to curmudgeonly types. Probably because you were once one yourself. You understand their frustration with quick fix solutions, their exasperation with corporate-ese, and their distrust of people who don't have much of a track record. Nevertheless, you learned a long time ago that it's easy to criticize and harder to show someone the ropes which is why you're the perfect choice to approach that harsh taskmaster who's got everyone spooked at work. Show this person that it's more constructive to train people in how things are done than it is to shame them about their performance. This way everyone benefits.