- May 14, 2025
- Posted by: Admin
- Category: Blog
Jen Gavin, CEO
5/14/2025
When I first started my career, I thrived on urgency. The faster I could respond to an email or check off a task, the more accomplished I felt. Moving fast equated to success. But as my role grew, I realized that not every decision could be made with speed—some required thought, strategy, and perspective. What once felt like my greatest strength started to show its limitations.
It was during a high-stakes client negotiation that this lesson truly landed. I had pushed hard for a quick close, following up relentlessly. But instead of sealing the deal, I sensed resistance. I paused, stepped back, and allowed the client space to process. When I re-engaged, the conversation was different—more trusting, more open, and ultimately, more successful.
That experience taught me the value of the pause—not just in negotiations, but in leadership and decision-making. It’s not about slowing down; it’s about being intentional, removing emotion, and creating space for better judgment.
Why Pausing Matters
Pausing is not procrastination. It’s a strategic reset—a moment to reflect, evaluate, and consider the bigger picture. Some of the most effective leaders step back before moving forward.
When we pause, we allow space for:
- Clarity – Breaking from the noise to see things from a broader perspective.
- Reflection – Assessing what’s working and what needs to change.
- Strategic Thinking – Realigning with long-term goals instead of getting stuck in short-term fires.
The Power of Pause in Sales
Sales professionals often operate with urgency—quick responses, frequent follow-ups, and fast closes. While urgency has its place, too much can feel like desperation, creating resistance instead of trust. The best salespeople know some deals require patience. Building real relationships, understanding the client’s needs, and giving space for decision-making can be far more effective than relentless pressure. Pausing gives prospects confidence in their choice and helps you be seen as a partner, not a pusher.
Building the Pause into Your Leadership and Sales Strategy
If you’re always moving at full speed, building intentional pauses into your routine might feel unnatural—but it’s crucial. Start by:
- Reflection Time: Set aside 15–30 minutes daily to disconnect, think, and assess.
- Asking the Right Questions: Instead of reacting, pause and ask, “What outcome do I want?”
- Embracing Silence: In meetings, don’t fear moments of silence. Often, insights come when space is allowed.
- Pacing Sales Conversations: Give prospects room to breathe. Sometimes, less is more.
The Paradox of Progress
The fastest path forward often includes deliberate stops. The pause is where innovation is born, mistakes are caught early, and clarity emerges for impactful decisions.
How the Pause Aligns with Our Mission
At Apex Staffing, our mission is Helping Communities Thrive Through the World of Work. We don’t just fill jobs—we build relationships, nurture trust, and take time to understand the unique needs of both clients and candidates.
The power of the pause allows us to listen deeply, ensuring the talent we place is a true fit—not just for the job but for the culture and vision of our clients. At Apex, thriving isn’t just about moving forward—it’s about moving forward with purpose.
How do you incorporate pauses into your leadership and sales strategy?