Telephone conversations

I'm ok receiving calls, and I'm ok making some calls (routine/specific/predictable/no pressure to make a quick decision). Other calls I put off for varying amounts of time.

Are there any particular types of calls that you are finding difficult?

For some calls I write a blurb, or key points and phrases of what I want to say. If my memory serves me correctly, I mainly do this for phone calls which will be emotive for me, and possibly for the other person, e.g. if I am telling them something they may not like to hear.

For less predictable calls where I have committed to making them (and not avoiding them!) I sometimes talk through the various outcomes with someone, using their answers as if I am filling in the gaps on a mental flowchart in advance of the call. This is more likely to be if someone has asked me to make a call (like in a work situation). Then, taking pen and paper to ascertain exactly they want me to find out enables me to list my questions that I want to cover, ready for making the call.

If I need to speak to someone for their benefit, it's easier, as I take the approach of simply finding out what they want to know. If they then try to press me for a decision about something, I assert that I'm not in a position to make a decision at this point in time, or need to check with someone else, or would like to take some time to consider. I.e. I am non-committal in the moment.

If possible I often seek an alternative for making a call, though as you have pointed out, this isn't always possible.

Would you say more about your difficulties and any strategies you have tried?

I'm ok receiving calls, and I'm ok making some calls (routine/specific/predictable/no pressure to make a quick decision). Other calls I put off for varying amounts of time.

Are there any particular types of calls that you are finding difficult?

For some calls I write a blurb, or key points and phrases of what I want to say. If my memory serves me correctly, I mainly do this for phone calls which will be emotive for me, and possibly for the other person, e.g. if I am telling them something they may not like to hear.

For less predictable calls where I have committed to making them (and not avoiding them!) I sometimes talk through the various outcomes with someone, using their answers as if I am filling in the gaps on a mental flowchart in advance of the call. This is more likely to be if someone has asked me to make a call (like in a work situation). Then, taking pen and paper to ascertain exactly they want me to find out enables me to list my questions that I want to cover, ready for making the call.

If I need to speak to someone for their benefit, it's easier, as I take the approach of simply finding out what they want to know. If they then try to press me for a decision about something, I assert that I'm not in a position to make a decision at this point in time, or need to check with someone else, or would like to take some time to consider. I.e. I am non-committal in the moment.

If possible I often seek an alternative for making a call, though as you have pointed out, this isn't always possible.

Would you say more about your difficulties and any strategies you have tried?