SILENCE-AND-PAUSING6 MIN READ
Pause through defensiveness
Use labels, pauses, and brief prompts when a direct report becomes defensive.
Devon D Implementation lead 1 Blame signal 2 Missing data 3 Next step One-on-one 20 sec Devon hears feedback about a client handoff and reacts as if the verdict is already decided. The next line either lowers threat or turns the meeting into a defense. Framework 2 min Label, pause, ask Active listening before explanation A label names the emotional read. The pause after it lets the other person confirm, reject, or add data.
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