The Rise of Pacing Professionals: Why We Walk and Talk in the Hybrid Legal World

The legal profession, like many industries, has undergone a seismic shift since COVID-19 transformed how and where we work. Gone are the days when bustling law firm offices were the exclusive hubs of activity. Today, many attorneys and legal professionals find themselves working remotely, adopting hybrid schedules, or frequenting coworking spaces and coffee shops to conduct business. The traditional office has been redefined, and along with it, how we communicate.

With this shift, one thing has become abundantly clear: we are spending more time than ever on the phone. Whether it’s client consultations, team meetings, or negotiating contracts, much of our communication now happens without the benefit of face-to-face interaction. And herein lies the problem—when we communicate over the phone, we miss out on 93% of the communication dynamic.

The Communication Gap

Psychologist Albert Mehrabian famously concluded that communication is only 7% verbal, with the remaining 93% split between tone of voice (38%) and body language (55%). This poses a unique challenge for legal professionals. Our industry thrives on nuance, persuasion, and clarity—elements that heavily rely on non-verbal cues. Without the ability to observe body language or make eye contact, phone conversations can feel less dynamic and more taxing.

In this context, it’s no wonder that many of us instinctively start pacing while on the phone. What seems like a quirky habit is actually rooted in both psychology and physiology.

Why Do We Pace?

Pacing while talking isn’t just an idle activity—it’s a fascinating example of the mind-body connection at work. Here’s why it happens:

1. Compensating for Non-Verbal Communication:
   Without the ability to express ourselves through gestures or facial expressions, pacingacts as a physical outlet for the energy typically channeled into these cues. It’s our body’s way of staying engaged in the conversation.
2. Stimulating Cognitive Function:
   Movement activates the motor cortex in the brain, which in turn stimulates other areas responsible for thinking and problem-solving. For legal professionals tasked with critical thinking and quick decision-making, pacing can help organize thoughts and enhance focus.
3. Managing Stress and Anxiety:
   The legal industry is inherently high-pressure, and phone calls often involve complex discussions or negotiations. Pacing can reduce stress by releasing nervous energy and calming the body through rhythmic movement.
4. Maintaining Energy Levels:
   Talking on the phone for extended periods can be mentally draining. Walking increases blood flow and oxygen levels, helping to sustain energy and prevent the lethargy that comes from sitting still.
5. Natural Rhythmic Response:
   Speech and movement are closely linked in the brain. This is why many people naturally pace while explaining something or engaging in deep conversation—it helps regulate speech patterns and maintain conversational rhythm.

What This Means for the Legal Industry

As legal professionals, we must recognize that the hybrid and remote work environment is here to stay, and with it, new challenges to effective communication. While pacing during phone calls is a natural and even beneficial behavior, it also underscores the limitations of phone-based interaction.

At Mavacy, we encourage embracing strategies that strengthen communication in this evolving environment. By focusing on adaptable habits and intentional practices, legal professionals can maintain clarity, build trust, and enhance relationships—whether remote or in person.

To bridge the communication gap, consider these strategies:

• Leverage Video Calls When Possible: Video calls restore a portion of the missing non-verbal cues, enhancing clarity and connection.
• Structure Phone Calls: Set clear agendas and take extra time to clarify tone and intent during phone conversations.
• Embrace Movement: If pacing helps you think and communicate more effectively, lean into it. Create spaces in your work environment where you can walk and talk comfortably.
• Revisit In-Person Connections: While remote work offers flexibility, don’t underestimate the power of in-person meetings for building trust and rapport.

A New Era of Communication

The rise of hybrid and remote work has forever changed the way we communicate in the legal profession. While phone calls will continue to be a cornerstone of our interactions, by fostering a culture of adaptability and intentional communication, Mavacy strives to support professionals navigating these shifts.

So, the next time you find yourself pacing during a client call, remember—you’re not just walking aimlessly. You’re bridging the communication gap, boosting your cognitive function, and adapting to the ever-evolving demands of our profession. And that’s a step in the right direction.