Have you ever found yourself in a situation where you didn’t speak up, only to have your silence misinterpreted?

Our brains are wired to fill in the gaps, creating stories based on our own perceptions and experiences.

The Stories We Tell in Silence

I recently followed up with someone who assured me they would respond within a few days. Weeks have passed, and I’ve yet to hear back. In the chasm of silence, my mind started filling in the blanks.

The version of me that once struggled with self-esteem would have assumed I had done something wrong. The present-day me, however, extends the same grace to others that I allow myself. I consider that they might be overwhelmed, uncertain about their next steps, or hesitant to deliver unwelcome news.

Regardless of which interpretation I choose, both are just that – interpretations. The truth remains unknown, yet the silence itself has spoken volumes.

When Silence Speaks

Silence can be powerful when used with intention. But when it stems from fear—fear of controversy, backlash, misunderstanding, or lacking a clear stance—it still conveys a message.

Think back to major world events:

When George Floyd was murdered on 25 May 2020, did your organisation immediately condemn the injustice? Did they check in on affected communities within the workforce? Or did they remain silent until external pressure forced a response? Worse still, did they say nothing at all?

When Russia invaded Ukraine on 24 February 2022, did your organisation take a stand, or did they stay quiet?

When Hamas launched an attack on Israel on 7 October 2023, killing nearly 1,200 people, did your organisation address it? If they had spoken up about the Russo-Ukrainian war but ignored this conflict, what message did that send?

For better or worse, silence is never neutral. It shapes narratives in the absence of explicit communication.

Regaining the Narrative

Don’t let silence speak for you unintentionally. Here are four principles for effective communication during times of change or uncertainty:

1. Acknowledge the impact of the situation.
2. Be transparent about your current stance and what you do know.
3. Set expectations by stating when you will provide further updates.
4. Follow through with integrity.

Reflect

➡️ When have you remained silent and regretted it? What could you do differently next time?

 

As always, my inbox is open—I’m just an email away.

Keep opening up,

Hannah

 

P.S. I’m thrilled to announce the upcoming launch of the Intentional Careers for STEM Women audiobook which is happening on International Women’s Day 🚀. If you’ve read and enjoyed the written version, do please consider leaving a review on Amazon. It helps more than I can possibly express.

 

P.P.S. When you’re ready, here are four ways I can support you:

📖 Benchmark your career for free: Take the Career Accelerator Scorecard and receive a personalised report. Get started.

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