Explaining to people that you are not a "phone person" can be done in a polite and clear manner. Here are some tips on how to communicate this to others:
Be Honest and Direct: When the topic arises, be honest and straightforward about your feelings. Simply say something like, "I just want to let you know that I'm not much of a phone person. I prefer other forms of communication."
Explain Your Preferences: Share your reasons for not being a phone person. It could be that you find phone calls intrusive, you're not comfortable talking on the phone for extended periods, or you prefer face-to-face interactions or written communication.
Emphasize It's Not Personal: Assure the other person that your preference for not being a phone person is not a reflection of your feelings towards them. Explain that it's just a personal preference in how you like to communicate.
Offer Alternatives: Let them know that you are still open to staying connected and that there are alternative ways to reach out to you, such as texting, email, or meeting in person.
Set Boundaries: If you do receive phone calls despite your preference, gently and kindly remind the person about your communication preference and suggest an alternative method that works better for you.
Respect Their Communication Style: Just as you have your preferences, others may have their own preferred ways of communicating. Respect their choices as well, even if they differ from yours.
Be Understanding: Some people may not fully understand your preference at first, and that's okay. Be patient and explain your feelings calmly if they have questions.
Don't Apologize: It's okay to have preferences when it comes to communication styles, and you don't need to apologize for being true to yourself.
Compromise When Needed: In certain situations, you may need to compromise and engage in phone calls when it's essential or preferred by the other person. Flexibility is important in maintaining relationships.
Remember that effective communication is about expressing your needs and preferences while also being respectful of others. By being honest and considerate, you can navigate your communication preferences without causing any misunderstandings or hurt feelings.