My old boss told me to stop talking so much during cuts, and it took a client's comment to see he was right.

I worked at a shop in Tacoma for about a year, and my manager would always say, 'Let the clippers do the talking, Drew.' I thought he was crazy because I prided myself on being a good conversationalist. I'd ask about work, family, the whole thing. Then, about three months ago, a regular quietly mentioned he specifically books with me because it's 'peaceful' and he can just zone out. That hit me. I realized I was filling every second with chatter, maybe because I was nervous. Now I ask one open question at the start, then just focus on the work unless they lead the talk. The vibe in my chair is totally different. Has anyone else had to learn to be comfortable with quiet?

3 comments

3 Comments

the_stella15d ago

Wait, he closed his eyes and took a deep breath? That's wild. I mean, I've had people look tired but that's like next level zen. It really shows how much some people just want that quiet time. Good on you for picking up on that vibe and changing your style.

susanm5614d ago

Sounds a bit much, but wadem89 gets it.

wadem8915d ago

Oh man, that is so spot on! I used to be the same way, always asking a million questions because I thought silence meant I was bad at my job. Then I had a guy just close his eyes and take a deep breath while I was working, and it clicked. He wasn't bored, he was relaxing. Now I keep it simple, maybe just a "how's the week been?" and then follow their lead. The quiet is actually really nice once you get used to it.