You usually know when something's off. The problem is what comes next.

Your stomach drops, and every useful thing you've read evaporates. So you call it out, or ask why, or fill the silence — and all three make it worse.

Here's what to do instead. Twenty-six questions from a former detective, organized by situation, each with how to say it, what you'll probably hear, and where to go next. Plus three example conversations, a section on when not to use any of this, and a printable page for before you walk in. 38-page PDF. Instant download.