How do I slow down addforce initially?

Here is my script, I'm applying force on collision and it works fine, I am using it to push back enemies on attack. But when it applies the force it moves them back so fast! like instant almost, How can I slow this down some? to where they get pushed back slower.

I've tried rigidbody drag and a less amount of force, that doesnt work though. I just want to slow down the push back to where it doesnt look like they are teleporting. Thanks in advance here is my script:

 public float forceApplied =  5000;
 
 
 
 if (HasForce)
          {
              Vector3 direction = (otherCharacter.transform.position -attacker.transform.position);
              otherCharacter.GetComponent<Rigidbody>().AddForce(direction.normalized * forceApplied);
          }