PICK UP THE PHONE

by Hugh Culver Categories: Hughs Blog 4 Comments

Twice last week I was in the middle of an email when I stopped and picked up the phone and called the person instead. And both times I was glad I did-I got updated on what they were working on and feel connected to them again.

Email is fast, conversations are important; I think we need to pick up the phone more often.

We’ve had email for over 30 years now and it’s no longer a “new thing”; email is a part of communication, like the phone. Now it’s time to rethink how we use it. Too often we opt for the path of least resistance, when a phone call, or walk down the hall is actually more productive.

MIT prof. Sherry Turkle’s new book “Alone together” takes a hard look at what she calls “technological promiscuity” when we blatantly overuse technology at the cost of the relationship (see a recent Fast Company interview http://bit.ly/llX0lY).

Turkle argues that changing our patterns at work is not impossible. She mentions one company that is now instituting “Conversation Thursdays”-like casual Fridays-but designed to get their people actually talking again!

Here’s a quick test for you: would picking up the phone advance this relationship more?

Sometimes a good-old conversation trumps speed and convenience-go ahead, pick up the phone.


About Hugh Culver

Hugh Culver co-created the world’s most expensive tours (to the South Pole), started five companies, and consults to Telus, Shoppers Drug Mart, Red Cross, and Bell. His keynotes, courses, and events teach and inspire leaders to do what matters, make a difference, and to fully show up. He is the author of Give Me a Break – the art of making time work for you.

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