AFTER THE BELL: We don’t talk anymore — the case for voice calls in a text age
There’s a lot to be said for a good old-fashioned voice call, and what we’ve lost by conducting our lives through text. Younger people are missing out.
In an age dominated by text communication, there is a strong case for the enduring importance of voice calls. The author recounts a recent experience where a phone call with someone they once knew proved to be highly effective in resolving a pressing issue. Within minutes, they worked together to find a solution and agreed on the necessary steps.
This is a scenario that is becoming increasingly rare, as most modern communication now begins with WhatsApp or email exchanges, which can drag on with a multitude of back-and-forth messages. When faced with a difficult situation, whether it's a personal issue or resolving a disagreement with someone who has a grievance, the author finds that calling is the most effective way to establish genuine communication.
A personal anecdote from the author's past illustrates the power of voice calls in conflict resolution. Having been involved in a protracted dispute with an institution, the author called the other party to acknowledge the resolution of the matter. Their genuine tone and concise message conveyed a sense of relief and understanding that was immediately appreciated by the recipient.
Psychologist Siphiwe Moyo, speaking on The Money Show, emphasized the importance of voice tone in conveying meaning during conversations. He suggested that in-person communication, particularly voice calls, carries more weight and humanity than text-based communication. He provided an example of a CEO delivering difficult news to employees, stating that a voice call allows the speaker to demonstrate their humanity and evoke empathy.
The author believes that the essence of voice calls lies in the connection they foster, allowing for a deeper understanding of the person on the other end. They argue that young people are missing out on the benefits of voice communication, as they have grown up relying solely on text-based interactions. By dismissing voice calls, they are potentially missing out on a more enriching and effective mode of communication that can enhance relationships and facilitate problem-solving.
Written by urgent.news from Daily Maverick's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
