A new survey of 2,000 Gen Z and millennial workers by the self-improvement app RiseGuide found that 42% avoid phone calls, while 58% script or rehearse conversations before making them. Among those who avoid spoken conversations, 78% said the habit has cost them earnings or opportunities. RiseGuide coined the term "callergy" to describe this reluctance, noting that technology provides "countless ways to delay real conversations."
Jaimee Campanella, a time strategist and productivity consultant at RiseGuide, explained that text messages, emails, and social media allow people to edit responses, while face-to-face communication requires immediate engagement. "The more we postpone difficult conversations, the more intimidating they can seem," Campanella said. "Avoidance often creates bigger problems than the conversation itself."
The survey also found that spontaneous calls are more stressful than breakups for many young workers. However, the tough job market may be pushing some out of their comfort zones. Adrian Poon, a Gen Z HR worker, told Business Insider that he only answers calls when applying for jobs. "I would mentally register that as a blind box opening," Poon said of receiving calls from unknown numbers.