A braking system for an elevator includes an electromagnetic brake operably connected to an elevator car. A control circuit is operably connected to the electromagnetic brake and includes a switching mechanism to selectively modify a rate of engagement of the electromagnetic brake to selectively modify deceleration of the elevator car. A method of engaging an electromagnetic brake for an elevator system includes detecting one or more operational characteristics of the elevator system and selecting a first position or a second position of a switching mechanism disposed at a brake control circuit depending on the sensed operational characteristics. Electrical current is directed through one or more components of the brake control circuit, depending on the position of the switching mechanism, to determine a rate of engagement of the electromagnetic brake. A flow of electrical current through the brake control circuit is stopped, thereby causing engagement of the electromagnetic brake.