While some might argue that phone calls are the most efficient way to get work done, there are plenty of reasons to eschew them. The most obvious is productivity. Almost nothing is more disruptive than an unplanned call when you’re trying to finish a task. It can also be hard to make good decisions in the moment if you’re surprised by a request. Should you accept that speaking engagement? What price should you quote? You may need time to reflect — or get your wording straight if you want to decline. To minimize disruptive calls, bundle them together and schedule them back-to-back — on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons, for instance. And just because someone wants to call you, you don’t have to agree. Instead, say: “The best way to reach me is through email.” That way, they know you’re happy to talk to them — but through your preferred channel, not theirs.
Adapted from "Stop Wasting Your Time on Work Calls," by Dorie Clark
