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HR is lonely. It doesn’t have to be.
The best HR advice comes from people who’ve been in the trenches.
That’s what this newsletter delivers.
I Hate it Here is your insider’s guide to surviving and thriving in HR, from someone who’s been there. It’s not about theory or buzzwords — it’s about practical, real-world advice for navigating everything from tricky managers to messy policies.
Every newsletter is written by Hebba Youssef — a Chief People Officer who’s seen it all and is here to share what actually works (and what doesn’t). We’re talking real talk, real strategies, and real support — all with a side of humor to keep you sane.
Because HR shouldn’t feel like a thankless job. And you shouldn’t feel alone in it.
Silence Sells
Why your best reps talk less and close more
The rookie mistake? Talking too much. Sales isn’t about filling every second with words it’s about creating space for the buyer to reveal what actually matters. Top reps know that silence is leverage. It makes prospects uncomfortable enough to share the truth, and it signals confidence instead of desperation.
When you’re over-talking, you’re selling to yourself. When you’re listening, you’re selling to the buyer. Every unnecessary word weakens your position. Every pause strengthens it. Silence gives weight to your questions, lets your prospect process, and forces them to do the work of convincing themselves.
Great reps master the art of shutting up at the right moment. They ask a killer question, then wait. And that wait? That’s when the deal gets real.
Action Steps: Use Silence to Win
Ask, Then Pause – Don’t rush in with filler. After a big question, count to three in your head before speaking.
Let Them Fill the Gap – People hate dead air. The prospect will start talking and often reveal gold.
Mirror Their Last Words – Repeat the final 2–3 words they said, then go quiet. They’ll expand naturally.
Stop the Over-Sell – When they show buying signals, don’t keep pitching. Shut up and let them close themselves.
Train the Discipline – Role-play silent pauses with your team until it feels natural. Confidence lives in the pause.
P.S. Silence is a weapon. Use it well, and you’ll stop sounding like every desperate rep out there. Your words will carry more weight, and your deals will close themselves.
