(When to Say Something) When to Be Silent Business Social Etiquette Harold Almon University Grooming Etiquette

Outclass the Competition
by Harold Almon baesoe.com
schoolofetiquette@ateasepress.com

Say something to anyone to whom you have been introduced, (with or without remembering any names.) It is required.

In social life, the roof of a friend's house serves as an introduction. When you meet someone under it, say something. Speak softly when deferring to a senior person. Talk a little. Say a lot. Tell no more than someone needs to know.

In public, omit from speaking with those who have yet to be introduced. At a social event, you may make a casual remark about the beauty of the building, or the bride, but continued talking is to depend on mutual willingness. Introductions are usually omitted.

In business, say something when you have something to contribute. Avoid giving unsolicited advice, or being unduly critical, unless you are a consultant. Avoid verbal pauses.

Be silent when listening to anyone. (Notice you can spell silent and listen with the same letters.)

Listen with the conscious intent of not stepping on another person's communication. Look at the person who is speaking. Every once in a while nod in affirmation. This gives assurance that your silence is not so steadfast as to be interpreted as insolence.

Being silent does not indicate agreement, or intent to comply. It instead affirms another person's right to be heard.

Be silent for an extended period, to discontinue unwelcome conversation. Indicate this action by looking away, or looking through the person who is speaking.

"Never let an S.O.B know that you know that he or she is an S.O.B." A better option is have something that you have to get out, someone who is waiting, or somewhere you have to be. Say, "Got to go."

Be silent during the playing of any nation's National Anthem. Outdoors, face the sound of the music. Stand at attention. When your nation's flag can be seen, place hand over heart.

Be silent, after you have asked or received a question, and after the listener has answered.

Be silent, when you feel compelled to continue talking, and when you want to call attention to a short coming, - assuming that it was unintentional. The benefit will be the number and length of responses will increase, as will the amount of unsolicited information; you will have time to understand what was is being said, and; you will gain time to formulate your next comment.

"Do not miss a good opportunity to be silent." On occasion, with peers, play a game called the silent game. Practice saying nothing for twenty-four seconds. (Yes count them.) See who can not help filling in the silence.