Someone says, “The timeline looks fine.”
But they pause before answering. They ask twice whether the materials will arrive on time. They mention that another team has not confirmed its part.
The words say fine. The conversation suggests there may be more to hear.
Good listening does not mean guessing what someone is thinking. It means making room for them to tell you.
“What part of this timeline concerns you most?” is more useful than another quick “Any questions?”
One thoughtful follow-up can bring a risk into the open while there is still time to address it.
Where might a better question help you hear the full answer?
