The Power of the Pause in Public Speaking

Atal Bihari Vajpayee: The pregnant pause lengthens forever-This was the title of the tribute by T.K Arun in the Economic Times. Atal Bihari Vajpayee was known for his oratory as well as his pauses.

Speaking of pauses, I am reminded of the song ‘The Sound of Silence’ by Simon and Garfunkel. Silence does have a sound. And the effective use of silence in communication, often speaks louder than words.

As a public speaker, you have to incorporate pauses at the right places, in the right moments - to create your own rhythm & connect with your audience. Pauses help your audience understand & absorb your message. They add meaning & power to your words. 

THE PREGNANT|DRAMATIC PAUSE-This pause often suggests more than what is expressed in words. It is pregnant with possibilities- usually longer than the other pauses. It adds a dramatic impact to what you are about to say. It is often used in comedy, suspense and by experienced & polished speakers to heighten anticipation in the listener.

THE MEANINGFUL PAUSE - It is the most essential pause in communication & is meant for clarity. The meaningful pause is used between phrases that express complete ideas. It helps your audience make meaning of & absorb your message. Meaningful pauses are the commas & full-stops of spoken communication.

THE EMOTIONAL PAUSE- It is used for emotional quality. Motivational speakers & leaders use this pause effectively in similar sounding, repetitive phrases, to arouse emotions in the audience.

THE PHYSIOLOGICAL PAUSE -This is the pause you need, to replenish your breath. However, as a speaker you cannot pause at random to breathe in, as it will affect the meaning & impact of your message. You have to co-ordinate your physiological pause with the above pauses. The best way to master your pauses is to learn & develop efficient breathing. Breathing right, helps you when you have to speak long phrases and deliver a powerful & emotional message.

The most precious things in speech are pauses -Ralph Richardson, British Actor.

Keywords #public speaking #pauses in speech