In one embodiment, a method includes receiving a request message at a local node in a communications network from a remote node in the communication network. The request message holds data that indicates a request for a particular service from the local node. A load metric that indicates a current processing load at the local node is determined. A response delay time, for responding to the request message, is determined based on the load metric. A response message is sent after the response delay time. The response message indicates the local node is able to provide the particular service for the remote node. The delay time allows the local node to make it more likely that a less busy node will respond earlier in time to a request message from the same remote node and provide the particular service.