Why talking more can replace unnecessary emails

Years ago, I implemented a threeemail rule: If I was replying to the same question a third time via email, I chose to pick up the phone and call. It's far more efficient. Let me share why this simple rule changed my professional life. In the early stages of my career, I found myself drowning in emails. The continuous backandforth was not only timeconsuming but also mentally draining. Emails are great for documentation, but they can sometimes be an endless loop of clarifications. I realised that after the third email exchange, clarity was still missing. That's when I decided to pick up the phone. Here are the benefits I experienced: → Instant clarity: A 5minute call often replaced 30minute email exchanges. → Building rapport: Voice communication adds a personal touch. → Faster problemsolving: Direct conversation speeds up decisionmaking. → Reducing misunderstandings: Tone and context are better conveyed. This approach didn't just save time; it built stronger relationships. In an era dominated by digital communication, a simple phone call can make a world of difference. It’s about cutting through the noise and getting straight to the point. So, next time you find yourself in an endless email chain, consider picking up the phone. It might just be the efficiency boost you need. What strategies do you use to keep communication effective? Share your thoughts!

𝗕𝗲𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗲 𝗬𝗼𝘂 𝗛𝗶𝘁 𝗦𝗲𝗻𝗱 — 𝗧𝗿𝘆 𝗮 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻! We often underestimate how much tension can be defused by a simple conversation... Recently, a colleague was not responding to a reporting request for one of the accreditation requirements. Our department had sent multiple email reminders, and I noticed that colleague was usually responsive to our other emails. Sensing some confusion, I decided to stop by their office. They confessed they had just written a strongly worded email and were about to send it. Fortunately, a 5-minute conversation cleared everything up—and that email was never sent. In another case, I was struggling with a delayed reimbursement due to some regulatory hiccups. After days of unresolved email exchanges, I typed out a long email, copying my seniors. But something told me to try calling the person I’d been coordinating with one last time. One quick call—and the issue was resolved that same day. I deleted the email. 𝗧𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗮𝘄𝗮𝘆? Emails often fail to convey tone or intent. A conversation—whether over the phone or in person—can resolve issues more effectively and preserve relationships. It’s not just about solving the problem; it’s about how you solve it. #Communication #ConflictResolution #WorkplaceWisdom #EmotionalIntelligence #savingrelationships

Emails get things done. But conversations build trust. I’m all for a well-written email, but let’s be real nothing replaces a quick Zoom or an honest phone call when it comes to building real relationships. Especially in clinical research (but really, in any industry), it’s the human moments that drive momentum: → Talking through concerns instead of typing them → Hearing someone’s tone, not just reading their words → Solving problems in five minutes that would take five emails The truth is, partnership isn’t built through perfect inbox etiquette. It’s built through conversation, curiosity, and showing up. So next time you’re tempted to type out paragraph #6 in a never-ending thread… maybe pick up the phone instead. It might change the whole dynamic.

I almost let a bad email exchange derail a productive negotiation. Opposing counsel’s emails kept getting sharper—like they were building a paper trail. I found myself reading them as increasingly hostile, and honestly, picturing them as a jerk. Then I picked up the phone. Turns out, they were friendly. Solution-oriented. And in five minutes, we reached a resolution that would've taken ten emails. Not everything needs a multi-paragraph email or a formal letter. Sometimes the fastest way to clarity is just talking. And, of course, follow up with a short email memorializing your understanding. 📞 Yes, that’s supposed to be a phone. No, I’m not doing the “hang loose” sign 🤙 — Hi, I’m Patrick Hagen. Clear writing. Sharp strategy. Litigation done right for in-house teams. Follow and ring the 🔔 for legal writing tips.

If you need 3 drafts and a deep breath before hitting send You should’ve just said it in person. I once sent an email that completely backfired. I thought it was clear I thought my tone was neutral But the person on the other end? They were livid. Emails don’t have tone Warmth Or real-time feedback And when emotions are involved It’s way too easy for things to be misinterpreted This is why interpersonal relationships are a key part of emotional intelligence. The stronger your relationships The easier your conversations No overthinking No perfect wording Just trust How do you avoid email disasters? ✅ Talk when things are good, not just when there’s a problem. Build trust before you need it. ✅ Match the medium to the message. If it could be taken the wrong way, don’t email—talk. ✅ Check your words before sending. Would I misread this if it weren’t mine? If yes, rethink. Because communication isn’t just about getting your point across. It’s about connection. And that’s way easier in a real conversation than in a 17-paragraph email. So, are you actually communicating Or just typing? If you want to sharpen how you connect, let’s explore your EQ.