Overcoming the hesitation or anxiety around making a phone call
Growing up, I remember the constant battle at home to use the phone. And when you did get it, you dragged the cord as far as you could to get some modicum of privacy to talk to your friends…sometimes for hours.
Today, most of us carry a phone with us at all times. So it’s ironic that we talk on it less and less. Text, email, and chat are preferred methods of communication, but in business, these aren’t always the most effective.
Sure, some blame Gen Z, COVID-19, or introversion, but the truth is, phone aversion isn’t new. Even before texting and Slack, people avoided calls.
Many team members today experience “telephonophobia” – that hesitation or anxiety around picking up the phone. But a quick, realtime conversation can often clear up issues and get agreement faster than a flurry of DMs can.
Overcoming Telephonophobia
Phones get a bad rep as time-wasters, irrelevant, or less efficient than email and chats. These myths often stem from misunderstanding and a lack of practical phone skills. Just like any tool, the phone can solve problems much faster than threads of emails when it’s used well.
My rule of thumb: If something takes more than 3 DMs or emails, it’s time for a meeting or a phone call.
By the way, making a call to someone these days is so novel, it can actually set you apart from others. Even if you have to leave a voicemail (horrors!) it shows the person on the other side that you are indeed human.
Use the Phone as a Tool
A phone call can be quick, scheduled as needed, and used as a tool to gain clarity. On a phone call, there’s no need for a camera like a Zoom or Teams meeting, it’s just voice conversation.
When DMs and emails are firing at a rapid pace, ask the participants to get on the phone for a chat to get agreement on next steps.
Strategic Scheduling: A quick text can set up a call and flag the issues to discuss, making the whole process feel more purposeful and less stressful. It also allows people to find a space where they can talk openly.
Clear Boundaries: Be upfront about timing. For example, “I’ve got 15 minutes for this call”. Then stick to it. Polite boundaries turn phone calls into focused, time-saving interactions.
Issue specific: Encourage team members to jot down key points or desired outcomes before making a call. This helps keep conversations on track and saves time.
Skills for Smooth Calls
Check-In First: Start every call with, “Is now a good time?” Respect for others’ time builds better working relationships.
Polite Interruptions: It’s okay to interrupt if someone’s going on too long. A gentle reminder about the time keeps things productive.
Follow Up: After the call, send a recap email to document decisions and next steps, keeping everyone aligned.
The Bottom Line
Text and email are great, but they have limits. The phone isn’t obsolete; it’s an underutilized tool.
