Callbacks

On average for every two phone messages I leave, one person returns the call. That number includes business matters. If work related messages are excluded, the ratio plummets to three messages per callback. Boy, what a harsh view on the state of my communication skills.

Sometimes the odds are better, sometimes slightly worse, but over time those are the metrics. Looking at my own call history, I want to believe I am more responsive. I might be. But I drink from the same well.

And there are reasons to not return a call. Valid, rational explanations. For instance, the caller on the message is drunk; it’s 3AM; it’s the last person in the world I want to deal with; I was gone for the weekend and the spontaneous invitation no longer applies because the date passed.

Also, by their nature some messages do not require a reply, so I understand when someone does not. A friend that drives a long way home from dinner just wants to let you know they arrived safely. In that case, their message closes the loop. They need no further reassurance.

Over the next week, I will be more aware of when I avoid calling people back, and why.

5 thoughts on “Callbacks

  • August 28, 2006 at 1:05 pm
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    One valid excuse would be, say, if the person was in Germany when you called. But I’m home now.

  • August 29, 2006 at 9:54 am
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    Totally o/t, but just wanted to drop you a line and say “hi!”

    Hi!

    Uhm, yeah, lots to talk about, but certainly way too much for this comment thingy…will have to write you a super long email or something. But I’m back, er well sort of at least…

  • August 29, 2006 at 12:22 pm
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    Totally valid, Pollster. I had no idea. Germany, eh? Sweet.

  • August 29, 2006 at 12:24 pm
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    Cyndy! Hope all is well. Super long email from you is always welcome. If you have time.

  • August 29, 2006 at 12:38 pm
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    Yep – business trip. Which meant super long hours and not much time to sightsee. But the good news is there is always time for beer.

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