Hang Up and Text: Debrett’s Advises Against Leaving Voicemails

Etiquette bible Debrett’s suggests sending a text message instead of leaving voicemails due to their tendency to meander and become incoherent.

In an age where communication has become increasingly digital, the art of leaving voicemails is slowly fading away. Etiquette guide Debrett’s has recently released an update to its “10 commandments of mobile etiquette,” advising individuals to hang up and send a text message instead of leaving a voicemail. The reasoning behind this suggestion is the tendency of voicemails to ramble and become incoherent. While older generations may still prefer leaving voicemails, younger individuals are encouraged to cut them some slack due to their difficulty with texting. This guidance comes in light of the rising popularity of voice notes on platforms like WhatsApp, which offer a more concise alternative to traditional voicemails.

The Rise of Voice Notes and the Decline of Voicemails

Voice notes on platforms like WhatsApp have gained popularity as they offer the opportunity to leave a voicemail without enduring the preamble and the risk of the recipient answering the call. However, Debrett’s advises against using voice notes as they are also considered “onerous.” The guide argues that in today’s world, the emphasis is on pithy and economical communication. Rambling voicemails, often barely audible and incoherent, can cause confusion and frustration. Therefore, the etiquette bible suggests sending a brief explanatory text if a call goes unanswered, as many phone users find voicemails and voice notes burdensome.

Minimizing Stress and Intrusion in Phone Calls

Debrett’s offers additional suggestions to minimize stress and intrusion when making and receiving phone calls. The guide advises sending a text before making a call to minimize intrusion and not expecting unannounced social calls to be answered immediately, as unexpected calls can be perceived as potentially bearing bad news. The guide also cautions against repeatedly hitting the redial button, as it can raise the recipient’s blood pressure and be seen as an unjustified intrusion. Furthermore, Debrett’s advises callers to concentrate on the call and avoid multitasking, as multitasking can make the recipient feel marginalized and deprioritized.

Conclusion:

As technology continues to shape our communication habits, traditional voicemails are gradually becoming a thing of the past. Debrett’s, the renowned etiquette guide, advises individuals to hang up and send a text message instead of leaving voicemails due to their tendency to meander and become incoherent. With the rising popularity of voice notes on platforms like WhatsApp, which offer a more concise alternative to traditional voicemails, Debrett’s also cautions against using voice notes as they are considered burdensome. The guide emphasizes the importance of pithy and economical communication in today’s fast-paced world. While older generations may still prefer leaving voicemails, younger individuals are encouraged to cut them some slack due to their difficulty with texting. As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of communication, it is essential to adapt our practices to ensure effective and considerate interaction with others.