You’ve probably experienced this scene: you call your daughter, your nephew or a younger colleague, and you hear a ringing ringtone… before ending up on voicemail. However, just a few minutes later, you receive an SMS or a message on social networks, as if nothing had happened! Whether it is a reflex of a “digital native” or an evolution of communication codes, one observation is essential: fewer and fewer young people answer phone calls.
And this phenomenon is not only confined to the private sphere. As Le Point explains, companies are also seeing a blatant drop in the number of incoming calls answered by generation Z (those under 25). The reasons are multiple, ranging from the anxiety of the unplanned call to the preference for written and more “controllable” exchanges. Other studies, notably carried out by the Pew Research Institute in the United States, highlight that 15-29 year olds largely favor instant messaging applications.
1. An ultra-connected universe, but above all asynchronous
Young people have grown up in a world of smartphones, social networks and instant communications. The written message (WhatsApp, Instagram, Snapchat or even iMessage) is often considered less intrusive and faster. Unlike a call, a text message or a DM (direct message) can be read and processed whenever you want, without having to stop the activity in progress.
According to a BVA study, nearly 75% of 18-24 year olds say they prefer to manage their communications without the pressure of going live. The telephone call is therefore perceived as a sudden break in everyday life.
2. The anxiety of the “phone call”
The fear of the unexpected and of “not knowing what to say” greatly contributes to this disenchantment with voice conversation. Once you pick up the receiver, you have to manage a flood of questions, comments or reactions in real time.
- No time to think : On the phone, spontaneity is essential, which can be intimidating for a generation used to weighing its words in its texts or emails.
- Apprehension of intrusion : Speaking orally involves revealing your tone, your emotions, and even your immediate environment.
The American sociologist Patricia Greenfield even mentions a “voice call social phobia ”, reinforced by years of text communication.
3. Social codes that evolve
In the 80s and 90s, calling was a sign of autonomy and emancipation. We were waiting for the famous phone call or the call to the family landline. Today, the call has almost become “solemn” : it is used for important announcements or emergencies. Everything that involves light conversation or logistical organization is now done in writing.
-Moreover, according to a 2024 Ifop survey, 63% of those under 30 associate the telephone with “urgent” or “official” situations. Result: dropping out is sometimes the last option considered.
4. The comfort of “mute”
Young people are masters in the art of “ multitasking communication »: they check a message while listening to a podcast or watching a series. Answering a call requires you to completely stop what you are doing. Worse, if it’s a video call, we find ourselves face-to-face digitally without necessarily having consented or prepared (hello, the outfit is not necessarily presentable!).
Silent mode (or “mute”) is then their best ally: we sort messages and notifications whenever we want, without feeling overwhelmed by unwanted ringtones.
5. Some keys to reconnecting with the call… or adapting to it
- Schedule the call : Before picking up or dialing a number, notify by SMS or chat. This gives the other person time to prepare mentally and to be in good conditions (a calm space, a favorable moment).
- Respect preferences : Instead of insisting on voice chat, try written channels first. You will often find that young people are not opposed to the idea of communicating… they just have their ways of operating.
- Discuss motivations : Explain why you want to speak orally (need for speed, emotions or more nuanced explanations). Often this creates more kindness and understanding.
- Vary forms of contact: If the call proves necessary (important family announcement, professional interview, etc.), do not hesitate to alternate with written messages to clarify the context or send additional information.
The fact that young people no longer pick up the phone can be destabilizing, especially for those who grew up with the ringtone as the main vector of communication.
Yet, It’s not a lack of interest. : it is above all the reflection of a generation accustomed to rapid, asynchronous and controlled exchanges. In the digital age,adapt to these new communication codesbecomes essential, both in the family and professional sphere.
What if, deep down, we could all benefit from it? Learning to plan our calls better, to be more concise, or to alternate voice and writing in a more balanced way… All good practices that could alleviate the pressure linked to the telephone and promote more serene communication, for each generation. After all, the key to a good conversation lies above all in the ability to listen to each other, whether it takes place by SMS or on the phone!
