9 Secret Masks of Quiet People
How can you talk with quiet people?
Here are 5 tactics:
1. Don’t use questions that require just a simple “yes” or “no” answer.
Use open-ended questions.
Meaning questions that stimulate a conversation.
Why?
Because we need to give them the opportunity to express themselves fully.
For example you can say:
→ “Hey, just curious, what are your thoughts on this?”
2. Quiet people are great listeners, right?
So the best way to communicate with them is to be a great listener as well.
Why?
Two reasons:
→ You let them know that you aren’t overlooking them
→ You show interest in them (so they’ll feel free to talk, even in the future)
For example you can say:
→ I like what you’re saying. Can you tell me more about that?
3. Quite people are often great writers, right?
So it might be a good idea giving them a different way to communicate.
I mean this:
→ If the context allows, turn your conversation into writing.
In some cases, quiet people prefer an email over a call.
Why?
Because they like to take time and reflect before talking.
So an email or a message is better than a “spontaneous call”.
Naturally it depends on the context.
So sometimes you could say:
→ “If you prefer, you can send me your thoughts in an email or message. That’s fine with me.”
4. Quiet people are patient when we talk, right?
So it’s not a great idea interrupting them when they talk.
Why?
Two reasons:
→ You show respect (they really value respect)
→ Quiet people tend to share the best of themselves after a few minutes
For example you can say:
→ “I’m really curious about what you’re saying. Take your time, no rush!”
5. We need to make them comfortable talking, right?
So the question is:
→ “How do we make them comfortable?”
A tool we can use is this:
→ Our stories
As we know, sharing personal builds trust.
And trust is exactly what makes them feel free to share their own experiences.
So sometimes you could say:
→ “Hey, I had a similar experience. It might help you understand where I’m coming from.”
These are 5 tactics to communicate effectively with quiet people — and get the best from them.
So, let’s not stop at appearances. Behind that mask is a world to be discovered.
Stewart Life Coaching
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