The Elevated Edit – February 2026
Dear Readers,
Let’s discuss the new phone etiquette! I didn’t even know we had a new phone etiquette, but it makes great sense in this day and age. So, can you believe it? The rule is: text before you call! A quick “Can I call you?” or “Free for a call?” is the new courtesy.
If I do call unannounced, my go-to line is “What have I caught you in the middle of?” This allows for the prospect that people are busy. Modern manners will have you ask, “Do you have five minutes?” and if they don’t, don’t push it – schedule it. Respect that people may be driving, working or multitasking.
Another pro-tip is to know your audience and respect their communication preferences. Some people are call people, some are voice message people and some are text only people. Good etiquette requires noticing and adapting to these preferences.
The unspoken rule is a phone call now sometimes signals importance or urgency. If it’s casual, informational, or non-time sensitive, then text wins. And calling people after 8 p.m. is context dependent. Close friends are probably fine, work or acquaintances should probably text first and for unknown numbers after hours is a hard no.
Remember, too, that with both Android phones and iPhones, you can always “schedule” the text to be delivered at a later, more appropriate time––like maybe the next morning.
Voicemails are optional and brief. Leave it if it only adds clarity, keep it under 20-30 seconds, say your name, why you’re calling and what you need. State your purpose early –small talk is fine, but only after context. (The younger generation doesn’t leave voicemails. A missed call is a sign to call them or text them back).
Lastly, end calls cleanly. Rambling endings are dated. “I’ll let you go” or “Thanks, this was helpful” is considered polite closure. You can follow up with a text if action is needed. We’re all out here trying to do better! I appreciate you!
Big Love,
Mrs. Abramovitz
