The world around us seems to be moving a thousand miles an hour. Often so busy we miss what people are really saying, we can't take a break or we'll miss something. Have you ever used the space between you talking to consider what you'll say next?
What you say may be hurting your career.
Think about the executives you've met that really made a difference to a company. Perhaps those executives that seemed to have every resource at their disposal. Most often than not, they use silence as a relationship building tool.
Use silence in conversations to really listen to what people are saying, silence gives you time to think about what is really transacting. Pace yourself and stressful situations become comfortable.
When asking questions use silence after each request to draw out real answers with meaningful facts.
Place silence on the table during your next negotiation after the other party makes an offer, you'll find they will sweeten the deal when you don't immediately respond.
Give the gift of silence while employee share concerns or new ideas that could change the fundamentals of your business -- just 5-minutes could be worth hundreds of hours of consulting time.
Place a block of silence on your work schedule so you can focus on the tasks at hand without interruptions, the people who depend on you will appreciate it.
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