10 Times You're Better Off Keeping Your Mouth Shut by Bill Murphy Jr.

Sometimes we talk too much. Sometimes we talk enough, but say completely the wrong thing. As the saying goes, there's a reason why we have two ears and two eyes but only one mouth. Sometimes we need to just be aware of when not to speak. And so this aptly-named article by Bill Murphy Jr. admonishes us to shut up...

1. When the other side in a negotiation starts debating against itself. Keep your mouth shut and just stay out of the way.
2. When you've asked a question. You can observe a lot just by watching, and learn a lot just by listening.
3. When the other side misunderstands (and you don't have a duty to talk). Remember, you're not always obligated to correct others' mistakes.
4. When you don't have any idea what you're talking about.
5. When you need someone else to get the credit.
6. When you are bragging, as opposed to sharing.
7. When your comment is more about you than the other person.
8. When you want someone else to grow. Instead of leaping forward to answer a thoughtful question, sometimes it makes sense to hold back and let others figure it out.
9. When you are clearly boring people.
10. When you begin a speech. A long pause often creates a level of discomfort, and then gets the audience rooting for you.