I can be pretty derisive of Style section trend pieces, but this one, about the growing aversion among the young to voice messages, nails a real cultural change. I'm in my mid-20s. Most of my friends purchase unlimited text messaging plans and would prefer not to get voice messages on their cell phones; after all, you can see a missed call and return it in way less time that it takes to call your inbox, enter the password, and listen to a message. And if a particular piece of information needs to be relayed -- ex; "I'm waiting on the corner" -- a text message is far more efficient. What's more, in an age when people carry their phones everywhere, text messages are more respectful and less intrusive; I may not be able to talk freely in the doctor's office waiting room, but I can discreetly read a text and respond. The problem, though, is when our personal anti-voice mail habits are transposed to the workplace. For a journalist, cold calling, leaving voice mails, and asking strangers nosy questions via telephone are crucial skills. It never stops being totally uncomfortable, but with practice, you come to understand that occasionally annoying people is part of your job. Unfortunately, each year I notice that interns -- and they're just a few years younger than I am! -- are more and more averse to picking up the phone. They will often try to reach a source via email for days or even weeks before overcoming their phone phobia and finally making some progress. I am sure this affects other professions, as well. Telephone skills are still crucial. --Dana Goldstein
