The Lost Art of Communication

The Lost Art of Communication

We live in an age where our phones are practically glued to our hands. We spend hours scrolling, texting, emailing, and messaging—yet, when it comes to actually picking up the phone and making a call, many people hesitate. Especially among younger generations, the ability to communicate effectively over the phone is becoming a lost skill. But the implications go far beyond just social awkwardness.

The Death of the Phone Call?

For many professionals today, communication is more digital than ever. We rely on emails, texts, and chatbots to interact with clients, colleagues, and even customer service. But ask yourself:

✅ When was the last time you called someone instead of sending a message?

✅ Do your clients or business partners prefer phone calls, emails, or face-to-face meetings?

✅ Have you communicated your own preferred method to those you work with?

We assume that efficiency means sending a quick message. But the reality is, text lacks tone, email lacks immediacy, and both are easily ignored. Miscommunication is rampant when we remove human interaction. A simple phone call can prevent confusion, build trust, and strengthen relationships.

The Younger Generation’s Phone Anxiety

Ironically, the generation that spends the most time on their phones struggles the most with making calls. Many young professionals are articulate and social in person, but when it comes to speaking with strangers—or even clients—over the phone, they hesitate. They find it awkward, intimidating, or even unnecessary.

Why? Because their world is built around digital communication, automation, and messaging apps. Unlike previous generations who grew up making calls for everything—from booking appointments to checking store inventory—today’s younger professionals default to texting, emailing, or using chatbots.

But here’s the issue: business and networking thrive on relationships. And relationships are built through conversation.

Why Voice Matters in Business

Take financial services as an example. Imagine sending a text message to an 80-year-old client with important financial advice. Do they read it? Do they understand it? More importantly—do they trust it?

A phone call allows you to project confidence, explain clearly, listen actively, and reassure. In professions that rely on trust—such as finance, law, and consulting—your voice is your greatest asset. The way you communicate can mean the difference between a lost opportunity and a long-term client.

How Are You Communicating with Your Network?

Now, let’s bring it closer to home. In your business and professional network:

👉 Do you know how your key clients prefer to communicate?

👉 Are you avoiding phone calls because they feel outdated or uncomfortable?

👉 Are you making regular calls to check in with your network, or just relying on emails and social media?

Networking is about relationships, and relationships thrive on personal connection. If you’re relying solely on emails and texts, you’re missing out on a deeper level of engagement.

Challenge: Pick Up the Phone

This week, we challenge you to make at least one phone call to a client, colleague, or business partner instead of texting or emailing. Have a real conversation. Listen. Connect.

You may be surprised at how much a simple call can improve communication, strengthen trust, and open new doors for opportunity.

Are you really communicating, or just sending messages? Let’s start making conversations count.