Learn from the Pause

I had the pleasure of dining at the Princeton Club recently in the company of some wonderful business students from William Paterson University.  As part of their class assignment in "Best Business Practices" they are invited to dine with various business professionals in order to practice social etiquette and interaction skills.  I commend Dr. Sprayberry for this innovative experience and was thrilled to see my table of six students showing maturity and poise.  They also used their powers of observation to see them through some "tricky" situations.  When confused about what utensil to use or similar codes of contact, I felt their eyes on me and I hope I rose to the occasion.  I was reminded of this very simple and useful tool.  When in doubt, pause, observe before acting.  This is one of those times a pause is not to be thought of as a painful lull in conversation, but a powerful choice.