Well guys,
I hate the cold calls I get so much, I hand out a business card that has my dial up number listed. Of course it is busy almost all the time.
I do, however, give my private number happily to any managers who email me for it and let me know when they plan to call. Also, I insist that my number not be put into any database whatsoever.
Some things are better to discuss on the phone, but I often will send off a confirming email to have a record. Sometimes it is nice to chat a bit on the phone to keep up relationships, especially with people one has met before or does a lot of business with.
Everyone feels differently about the phone. I am ok with it, but don’t like unannounced calls.
I often use messengers, you can multi task while on the messenger. A phone call takes all your attention, so is more of an imposition on your time.