The lost use of the phone - the phone is priceless

Emails and texts often cause more confusion and misunderstanding than many people realize. I observed people using both methods repeatedly, even after I advised them to make a call, and things rarely improved. I don't know why, but many younger folks don’t realize the powerful impact of a phone call. As an example, I had a conversation with a woman, a Stanford MBA, several years ago, which I will never forget.

I received an email from her that described her new software: a production tracking software. I was curious about the details and left a voicemail. She called back, Oh my God, she called back. In today’s business world, people have forgotten the benefit of a phone call; the connection made through a phone conversation is enormous. You feel people through a phone; you almost know them. As a result of our conversation, she got the opportunity to share her determination and excitement, and I got a chance to express myself. We laughed about a few silly things and quickly transitioned to the business at hand. None of this can happen with a text or email.

We spoke for about 30-45 minutes about her product (s). I provided some insight into the procurement of equipment/ automation used in my industry, and she was all ears, saying, “Thank you, this is so helpful.” It was refreshing and gratifying to speak to an energetic, intelligent, and humble person. The human connection made me happy to help; an email or text pales in comparison.What did she do to evoke these emotions? The same that anyone with an eighth-grade education could do:

1. She called back

2. She communicated and transmitted her curiosity and energy.

3. She engaged me, and I settled into my seat to chat.

4. She thanked me and listened - she listened!

5. She learned.Simple…simple…simple

   And there is more…Our conversation evolved, and I offered some unsolicited advice on her email (I’m good at unsolicited advice!) I was blunt and told her, “The email sucked”. She asked, “Why? How can I make it better? and finally, How would you write it?”. The last question was great!. She showed humility, asked for my insights, and I was happy to help. I was hooked and committed to rewriting the email for her. I made that commitment because of the phone. I agreed to talk the next day @ noon, and during the call, we reviewed my edited email. She thanked me profusely, and we went our way.

Think about the conversation. She, an MBA from Stanford, has all the credentials and every reason to feel “smarter than you”, but she didn’t convey it. Instead, she called me on the phone, introduced herself, asked questions, acknowledged her pitfalls and got help….that’s smart!

So, next time you think about sending an email or text, pick up the phone. It works wonders.