The Art of Keeping Quiet

SHHHHH.....

Have you ever been in a meeting and someone makes a remark that makes absolutely no sense?  Ever been around know-it-alls that really know very little about the topic they won't shut up about?  Do you find yourself squirming to just speak what is on our mind?  Don't worry.  You are not alone.  In dealing with business clients,it is imperative to remain politically correct. However there is an art to knowing when to remain silent.

1). How will it affect your bottom line?  If a swift decision can be made to terminate a contract or remove business, think more than twice before you speak. Let nothing affect your revenue, especially actions of which you can control.

2). What is the impact on future potential business relationships of which the offending person is mutually involved?  Make sure this individual does not know someone that you may want to do business with in the future who believes his credibility.

3). What are the chances this person will even listen or accept criticism? It takes a true professional to listen, adjust, and/or become indifferent. If you want to speak your mind or possibly cuss because of the intense stupidity or poor judgment of the individual, it is far-reaching to believe the person will change or take your opinion or facts into consideration.   So why waste your energy?!

While it is true that silence is golden, it is also a stance that many take to deal, better yet not deal, with an issue. If you have already taken a stand previously in a politically correct manner and the point seems to not get across, evaluate the impact of speaking out or keeping quiet.

Posted in: biting your tongue,Business Etiquette,consulting,Entrepreneurship,Leadership Skills,Silence,silence is agreement,silence is golden,teamwork,Temeko Richardson