Handling Awkward Silences – It’s Not Just Being Patient

Exam Room Communication Tool Kit Handling Awkward Silences – It’s Not Just Being Patient
  • After making the recommendation, give the client a moment to think  
    • Don’t guess the reason
  • If the silence persists and starts to become awkward, ask if they have any questions for you 
    • The best response to awkward silence is “What questions do you have for me?”
  • Don’t make assumptions about what they are thinking. Silence tends to mean that they are processing or thinking, not that you did a bad job 
  • Money concerns may come up here, or maybe logistics or scheduling questions, but now you’re having a productive conversation

Discussion:

What tips and tricks have you learned for handling awkward silences?

Why do you think these silences happen?

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