For adults · Work
In a meeting
You asked a colleague for their view. They have gone quiet and are looking at the table. It has been three seconds.
What could you do?
Three things you could say. None of them is the one right answer; each note says why it fits the moment, or why it may not.
Wait. Count to five in your head before saying anything.
A strong fit
Many people need a few seconds to answer a real question. Silence is them thinking.
Say: "Take your time."
Also works here
This gives permission for the pause. Saying it once is enough.
Ask a second question to fill the gap.
Worth a second look
A second question restarts their thinking. It does not leave the space.
What people here usually expect
- Three to five seconds of silence after a question is normal. It feels longer than it is.
- Looking away while thinking is common and not a sign of a problem.
- You can look at your notes while you wait so the silence is easier for you too.
Your words
Write the one thing you would say to yourself while you wait for an answer.
In the app you write one line here and it lands in your lines. Nothing is graded.
The move this moment practises: Leave some space.
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