Pace Yourself: Why Slowing Down Improves Every Conversation

June 6, 2025|Mary Jane Copps

Woman wearing glasses and a light blue blouse talks on the phone while working on a laptop at a café table by a sunny window, with coffee and water in front of her.

We live in a fast world. Messages are delivered in milliseconds. People expect answers instantly. And it’s easy to think that speaking quickly signals confidence or competence.

But in real-time conversations, especially on the phone or in video calls, pacing is power.

When we speak too quickly, we make it harder for others to absorb and understand what we’re saying. We lose the opportunity to create space for connection, storyfinding, and trust.

Pacing Is an Overlooked Superpower

In my work with sales teams and customer service professionals, pacing is one of the most valuable and overlooked skills. It’s not about being slow. It’s about being intentional. When we slow our speech, we give the listener time to:

  • Catch key points
  • Ask questions
  • Share their own thoughts

And when we pause, briefly and on purpose, we:

  • Create room for nuance
  • Reduce pressure on the listener
  • Give ourselves a chance to breathe, think, and stay present

Your Pace Sends a Message

In both sales and service, your pace communicates more than you might think. A thoughtful, measured pace tells your listener that you are:

  • Listening
  • Respectful of their time
  • In control of the conversation

A Quick Challenge

For your next phone call or video meeting, try this: Listen to your own pace. Then slow it just a little. See what changes.

Real-time conversation skills directly impact leadership effectiveness, customer experience, collaboration, and business growth.

As communication becomes increasingly digital, many professionals spend less time practicing and using the skills required for clear, confident and effective real-time conversations. Explore new options for improvement.

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2 thoughts on “Pace Yourself: Why Slowing Down Improves Every Conversation”

  1. I agree, that pacing and slowing the conversation allows the others to know you are listening and this is important to you.
    Thanks for the reminder

    Reply

    • Thanks, Glenn. I finished a coaching call with a salesperson a few minutes ago. While there were things we focused on for improvement, he received a big gold star for the speed of his conversations and his extremely calm voice. He is able to create connection with clients very quickly because of these skills.

      Reply

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