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How to Handle Silence
Introduction• Often when we are in
the process of communicating with someone, there comes a moment when there is an awkward silence between us.
Possible Reasons• Perhaps he or she is being quiet because
someone in his or her family is ill, or is having personal problems.
• In this case, you shouldn't take it personally - give him or her some space.
• But, if you notice that this person is only acting quietly towards you and not towards others for an extended period of time then you may have reason to be concerned.
Strategies to Handle Silence
• The way that we choose to deal with such moments is indicative of our comfort level with ourselves and with the communication process itself.
• We have prepared some strategies about this interesting subject.
Relax and Accept the Awkward Silence
• When communicating, it is entirely normal for natural silences to occur.
• In most instances, it indicates that there is a real kind of connection between you and the other person.
• So, relax and do not force the conversation at that moment.
Ask a Question• If the awkward silence seems to
last longer than you would wish, ask the person a simple and straightforward question to help jump-start the conversation again.
• People always love to talk about themselves, so asking questions is a wonderful way to draw them in.
Offer Your Partner a Drink or Something to eat
• If you and your friend are experiencing an awkward silence, you can offer him something to drink to help shift the conversation toward physical action.
• Everyone enjoys the chance to breathe and drink or eat with a friend.
Propose a Walk
• To deal with an awkward silence, you can ask your friend if she might like to take a nice walk (weather permitting) or to listen to some music you both like.
• Again, physical alteration during communication is a nice way to move past silence.
Create an Environment
• Create an environment where awkward silences turn into opportunities for greater insight into one another.
• You can turn something awkward into something comforting by simply looking into your friend's eyes and showing acceptance and joy in the act of silence.
Lico Reis Consultoria & Línguas
Roberto Lico Reis
E-books: www.migre.me/oQ5Linkedin: www.migre.me/1d9r
Twitter: @licoreis
