Silence is not only the Golden Rule. It is the Golden Punch.
What do you believe is the top trait of a consultant?
The first time I was asked that question, I immediately commented “their ability to communicate well in various mediums.” However, I’ve since refined that response to “their ability to follow the Silence is Golden Rule philosophy.”
“We have two ears and one mouth so that we can listen twice as much as we speak.” — Epictetus
Have you ever asked a friend “How are you doing?” You pause and wait. You then listen to what they have to say.
If it takes them a few minutes to respond, it is okay. You don’t try to guess at how they feel. You don’t start rambling and asking additional questions. You give them time to think. Your silence communicates interest and concern for them.
The challenge is many of us don’t follow the
in business settings.
Why not? Are we too nervous? Are we afraid we wouldn’t be heard? Are we trying to sell them on us?
I have more stories than I can count on how a consultant lost an opportunity because they didn’t PAUSE and LISTEN.
Have you ever presented a solution to a problem? If the room is quiet and no one is asking questions, how easy is it to start rambling?
