Mike DolbowIt took me a long time to realize how valuable this approach is: when you're verbally giving someone a question for the first time, even if you think it might be trivial or an obvious answer, give them permission to think about it. "You don't have to answer this right away."
I've basically made it a habit. At the very worst, it's just a little unnecessary. But at best, it eases tension and leaves space for a more considered response.
Ryan Hyde