In the past 40 years, the number of methods of communication have increased significantly. Technology is continually developing new ways of keeping in touch - whether it be with family and friends or with those we work with and our suppliers and customers
Since the advent of email way back in 1971, numerous other methods of contacting customers have emerged. From Skype and video calling to Facetime and iMessage, businesses are spoilt for choice. This can mean that it is easy to overlook the power of the humble phone call. So, what advantages does using a telephone offer?
1. Telephone calls are more personal
While email and instant messages are often sent while the sender is multi-tasking, telephoning someone requires taking time out of your day to stop and make the call. This shows more care, demonstrates more attention and better can demonstrate better customer service.
2. Phone calls are often faster
Messages can be conveyed more quickly over the phone than exchanging numerous messages by other means such as email or instant message over the course of a day. When an immediate answer is required, a phone call is the best way.
3. Meaning can get lost in translation
The meaning or urgency of a subject can get lost when conveyed by written words, because some things are just more effectively communicated verbally by phone. It is also possible to clarify something there and then.
4. Everybody knows how to use a phone
It’s often difficult to keep up to date with all new communication methods and who is familiar with the different technologies available or who is using what. Instead of having that complicated conversation - especially when several people are involved, you can make life simpler by picking up the phone.
5. Telephones are simple
Using technology can often involve technical difficulties. Effective internet communication, using programmes such as Skype and Facetime, require a reliable internet connection, working equipment and technological know-how. Things can and do often go wrong - especially if you spend significant amounts of time working remotely. Providing you have a landline or mobile phone signal, you can simply dial the person you want to reach,
6. Phone calls are often more authoritative
Similar to how letters carry more authority, because of the traditional nature of a phone call, it generally holds more weight than an email or an instant message. If you want to communicate an official message, deliver it with your voice. A phone call is also more effective and sensitive when delivering bad or difficult news.
7. Video calls can be awkward
Sometimes being able to see the person to whom you’re speaking is useful, but more often it’s a hindrance and one extra thing to worry about. Facial expressions can give things away and it can make working from home a little more difficult.
8. Phone calls are now cheaper
Not long ago, making landline calls was expensive - especially to overseas numbers. However, that no longer needs to be the case, you can make cheap calls to hundreds of other countries for a reasonable price using VoIP (voice over internet protocol) technology. Mobile phone packages also often include unlimited minutes as part of the contract.
Blog supplied by Ruth Barton on behalf of Call Happy.
