The Power of a Pause

In our busy working lives, there’s an emphasis on speed and getting as much done as possible, frequently little appreciation for the power of a pause.

This is reflected in our long ‘to do’ lists, our body movements and our speech.

One of the most common challenges I see to great vocal impact is people speaking too fast. This can be overwhelming and remove the opportunity for people to consider what is said.

Of course, speaking overly slowly is not desirable as it conveys lack of confidence and negativity, which will disengage people and potentially make them impatient. However, speaking at break neck speed is negative too. For several reasons:

1.  The clarity of your words will be lost and people will only ask you to repeat things once or twice as a maximum. This is particularly the case where people have a different first language.

2. People won’t have time to reflect on what you are saying.

3. Fast speech, as well as conveying enthusiasm, can also convey nervousness and anxiety – both antidotes to confidence and credibility.

4. Particularly with increased seniority, more thought and consideration is expected so ‘pausing for thought’ can certainly be a positive.

Whether you are speaking to clients, prospective clients, introducers or colleagues, you are usually conveying information that is new to them; even though in your mind you know it or you may be anxious about it so tend to speed up to ‘get it over with’. It’s the first way to lose engagement if people can’t keep up.

So think carefully about the appropriate speed – you want to take people with you, not lose them! Also, consider the power of a pause. They are important for adding impact to specific points and allowing the person you are speaking to, time to think. Always make it clear that it’s a planned pause (using body language), rather than that you just forgot your words. Keep a clear eye on your audience too, if they look like they need thinking time then pause. Pausing is particularly helpful to emphasise a point.

In any dialogue, the right speech speed and appropriate pausing will give what you are saying greater impact and increase the engagement you get! People feel respected and valued when you have taken the time to engage with them and convey what is needed. These are vital ‘feelings’ for successful business development.
Are you aware of how you come across? Unless you are aware, you can’t improve. Could your communication style be holding you back professionally?

Read more about the role of your personal brand.

If you’d like to discuss how you engage with others and have a positive personal impact to retain clients and bring in more work, contact me to see how I can help.