Strategic Silence
Listen long enough to understand before deciding what to say.
By Imperium editorial Original writing
A pause can improve the quality of a conversation. When you stop preparing your reply long enough to hear the other person, you may discover a concern or constraint that your first answer would have missed.
Use silence to make room for understanding. Ask a clear question, allow the answer to finish, and reflect back what you heard. You are looking for an accurate picture, including the parts that complicate your preferred solution.
Silence has limits. Withholding necessary information can leave others uncertain or unable to act. Once the situation is clear enough, speak directly about the decision, the reason for it, and the next step. Listening should improve communication, not replace it.
Put it into practice
In your next important conversation, ask one follow up question before offering advice. Check that you understand the actual problem.