Miss Manners: My friend won't answer the phone. What should I do now?
Briefly

In response to a query about waiting for returned calls, Miss Manners reflects on the changing landscape of phone communication. She notes that due to the rise of texting, many individuals prefer to schedule calls rather than call unexpectedly. The evolving norms suggest that demands for immediate responses are now seen as intrusive. Friends should thus explore their preferences for communication methods and potentially set regular call times or shift to written correspondence, fostering a mutual understanding that accommodates both parties' needs.
Miss Manners suggests that the evolution of telephone communication habits has complicated the expectations around returning calls, urging flexibility in understanding friends' preferences.
The increasing reliance on texting before calls has changed communication dynamics, with many now feeling it's more appropriate to arrange a time to talk rather than call unexpectedly.
Rather than imposing strict rules for returned calls, it's better to have open discussions with friends about preferred communication methods and establish a compromise.
Old-fashioned written correspondence might provide a solution for those seeking to maintain connection without the pressures of phone calls, fostering deeper engagement.
Read at www.mercurynews.com
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