Less is More.

In the summer of 1988, I was an intern for Congressman Hamilton Fish, Jr. on Capitol Hill.

Fish was a moderate Republican from New York who served in the House of Representatives from 1969 to 1995 – a statesman who had navigated the impeachment of Richard Nixon and the complexities of party politics. He was a hard working, formidable leader who prided himself on finding compromise and comradery among peers in an era that still valued the quiet work of governance.

This morning, I heard an interview with former Congressman Barney Frank (D-MA). The name and the voice immediately took me back to D.C., remembering when Congressman Fish introduced me to Frank as we were walking through the halls of the Capitol and I was carrying a big folder of documents. Despite being on opposite sides of the aisle, the warmth between them was notable. They shared a mutual respect that felt natural, not forced.

In the interview, Frank sadly shared that he was entering hospice and this might be one of his last press appearances. The message triggered a memory of a lesson Fish once gave me. I had asked the Congressman for the secret to his success, expecting a lecture on policy or some form of political wisdom (which might be what I got).

His answer was simple: “Know when not to speak.”

It was a line he’d likely used a thousand times, but for a student eager to collect insights, it was a revelation. Today, that lesson is more than just political maneuvering; it is a vital framework for CEOs and founders.

In a culture that rewards emotional outbursts, we often mistake noise for intelligence. But for a leader, silence can be a powerful strategic asset.

• In Meetings: When a CEO speaks first, their position often limits the room’s creativity. Think about staying silent, probing the most junior member of the team first and pushing people to think for themselves. Silence encourages talent and brings forward new ideas.
• In Negotiation: Many deals can be settled sooner if not for the fact that someone keeps talking after the “yes” is already on the table. Sometimes the most important negotiation technique is silence.
• In Crisis: This is where thoughtful reflection, preparation, and calm are more important than an immediate reaction.

Hamilton Fish and Barney Frank built careers on their credibility and comradery. I like to think they gave me an appreciation for saving and carefully curating thoughts and responses that can serve a purpose well too.

The space between what we want to say and what is worth saying is where leadership thrives. Sometimes, the most powerful thing you can do to achieve your goals is to “know when not to speak.”

With thanks to Congressman Fish, Jr. for showing me his approach to leadership. With warmest thoughts to Congressman Frank.

Photo: Author and Congressman Hamilton Fish, Jr. in summer 1988