Much has been written lately about the phone becoming an obsolete communication tool. Some experts claim that texting, social media, and email make talking on the phone unnecessary. For many millennials, the thought of speaking to someone on the phone can bring on bouts of anxiety. But the fact is that the telephone allows us, as a species, to communicate in our most natural form. So before you start typing that next text, check out these five reasons to not give up on the telephone.

• More efficiency, more influence. From a quick one word answer to detailed explanations, speaking in real time on the phone allows for the most rapid exchange of information. This is because we speak and listen faster than type or read. And this allows us the ability to let the conversation naturally flow or influence the direction and tone.
• You can read emotions. When a response to news is met with an “OK” or an emoji, it can be interpreted in different ways. Is the person happy, angry, indifferent, or just being polite? When sharing news on the phone, you will receive the most emotionally honest response. Their tone of voice, pauses, inflections and choice of words will tell you way more about how they feel than could ever be shared in a text.
• Talking is the great equalizer. Anyone who’s received a text that went CU@8HAGD (See you at 8. Have a great day), knows even a simple text chat can be a confusing experience. Add to that any cultural or language differences and things can get pretty confusing. Speaking on the phone or in person allows for the natural exchange of dialogue and easy clarification of slang and technical terms.
• You can multitask. With your head down and two thumbs typing away, you can only accomplish so much. Tasks as simple as eating or walking can become challenging or even dangerous. Talking on the phone leaves both hands free and the ability to look straight ahead, allowing for easy multitasking such as taking notes, driving (with a hands free device), or just crossing the street.
• Improves both business and social skills. The ability to build rapport, convey ideas, influence opinions, and understand others is something everyone should possess regardless of profession or age. Choosing to only use certain technology to communicate only weakens these skills. Being able to effectively communicate in person and across all forms of technology will result in building the greatest number of personal and professional relationships.

Marc Gordon is a recognized marketing expert. He regularly appears on TV and radio. His articles appear in over 200 publications worldwide. Visit marcgordon.ca or his online show at marctv.net for more business tips.