Long ago, I worked in IT departments, first for a video production/duplication company and then for a big law firm. Although my main task was working on projects—sourcing, planning and implementing systems—I also took phone calls from users who needed help. When the phone rang, it usually meant there was a problem.
Even at home, when the phone rang, it was usually a problem at work. Eventually, I was given a pager, which eliminated the need to answer the phone. Instead, I had to make a call to find out what the problem was. Non-problem calls and pages were rare.
Over time, with each ring or beep, the classic signs of fear ensued: sweating, a racing pulse, a churning stomach. Pavlov himself couldn't have designed a better demonstration.
Although I've been "retired" from IT for a couple of decades now, the conditioning is still there. I rarely answer the phone when it rings, preferring to let it go to voicemail. If I have the option, I prefer to text a response or, better yet, email the caller. (Email is better for communication, anyway, as it allows me to sort and save messages—or so this is how I justify my preference for email.) I've even gone so far as to put on my website a phone number that goes directly to voicemail. Other than death or injury to a loved one, there's no call that can't wait until the next day.
(Well, that's not completely true. For calls I'm expecting, I give out my "real" number and make sure my phone, for that short moment in time, isn't set to DND.)
Interestingly, I have a hard time making phone calls, too. To get up the nerve may take me several days. I blame this on my mental slowness; I'm not quick on my feet, and I often speak before I think. Again, I'd prefer to create a succinct, well-considered email—and to take as much time as I need to make sure it means exactly what I want it to mean. Unlike my aversion to answering a call, my reason for preferring not to make a call is practical and logical.
How about you?
Agreed. I consider a full-blown conversation on the phone unnecessary when an email will do.
I prefer email. I think better at the keyboard.