The Hidden Power of Tiny Pauses
New research from Schulich reveals that brief pauses in conversation can meaningfully improve how speakers are perceived. Published in Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes, the study — titled “The Power of Pausing in Collaborative Conversations” and co-authored by Schulich marketing professor Grant Packard — shows that short pauses, often under three seconds, invite listeners to respond with small acknowledgments like “yeah” or “uh-huh.” These quick verbal cues make speakers appear more helpful, supportive, and collaborative.
The findings challenge the common belief that silence indicates uncertainty or hesitation. While long pauses can indeed create discomfort, the research shows that short ones serve a very different purpose. They create tiny openings for listeners to participate, generating verbal signals of alignment that make conversations feel smoother and more engaging. As Packard notes, “These findings run counter to the common fear that pausing makes us look unsure of ourselves. In reality, taking short pauses gives our conversation partners space to engage.”
The study highlights how distinguishing between different types of silence can reshape the way people approach everyday communication. Short pauses within a speaking turn aren’t awkward; they are subtle invitations for connection. This dynamic can be especially powerful in professional environments—workplace meetings, leadership communication, and customer service interactions—where positive impressions and collaborative dialogue are essential to building trust and achieving strong outcomes.
The authors emphasize that the implications extend widely, affecting anyone who interacts regularly with colleagues, clients, or customers. Brief pauses give conversation partners small opportunities to chime in and signal alignment, making interactions feel more positive and productive.
