Remote work leads to more people suffering from ‘phone anxiety’

A new poll conducted by telephone answering provider, Face For Business, suggests that four in 10 employees have experienced an increase in feelings of ‘phone anxiety’ as a result of remote work. The survey also claims that those aged 18-34 bear the brunt of this heightened anxiety. The report claims that the driver of this surge in anxiety is alack of immediate support available to remote workers, which 12 percent of respondents cited as their primary concern when fielding calls from home. The authors suggest that the absence of colleagues just a desk away exacerbates feelings of isolation and uncertainty, leaving employees feeling adrift in the sea of incoming calls.

According to the poll, nearly one in ten respondents expressed apprehension about their ability to assist callers effectively, fearing they may lack the necessary knowledge or resources to address inquiries adequately. And despite 60 percent of employees reporting experiencing phone anxiety, 77 percent of those respondents disclosed that their companies offered no training on phone call management.

Mike Davies, communications expert at Face For Business, says: “This surge in phone anxiety is not merely a fleeting discomfort; it poses significant challenges for employees navigating the remote work landscape. This survey clearly shows that dealing with phone calls can be a daunting task, particularly when employees are struggling to deal with unpredictable and angry callers.

“Nearly one in 10 respondents express apprehension about their ability to assist callers effectively. This sense of inadequacy only serves to compound the anxiety surrounding phone interactions, further undermining employee confidence and morale. 60 percent of employees reported experiencing phone anxiety, yet 77 percent of those respondents disclosed that their companies offer no training on phone call management. This disparity highlights a critical oversight in employer-provided resources, exacerbating stress and compromising communication efficiency within organisations.  These findings underscore the urgent need for companies to prioritise employee wellbeing and professional development.