Excellent point about fallibility of memory–even after a phone call, you need to have a written followup. I will always record important conversations (with permission, of course), because I'm a slow typist and marginal note-taker, especially if someone is a fast talker!

I want everything in writing, because people remember phone calls different.

I totally agree on the utility of email, as it seems several commenters above do, too. I don't Skype too often, but I shave my head, so no hairstylist needed.

I prefer email because I have a chance to write out all my thoughts exactly the way I want them to come across, and I'm less likely to forget something I wanted to mention. But there are definitely times that a phone call is best, so I'm comfortable with that when necessary. I dislike Skype for the simple reason that, while I do get dressed for work, I don't always have my makeup and hairstylist on the set 😉 But if a client specifically requests it, I accept and try to look presentable.

@Cathy, the millennials are surely trying to change that dynamic ("no phone calls, ever!"), but I'm going to fight it every step of the way. *shakes fist like old man telling kids to get off his lawn*

@Lori, thanks for letting me guest post! I have to confess I prefer the do-the-damn-job clients to the ones who need updates. *shakes fist at sky*

@Paula, it's a fine line, isn't it?! I have no problem talking on the phone, and prefer it for some tasks…but inefficiency drives me nuts.

Your Purpose section stands out as something rather critical. I have had clients who want you to shut up, do the damn job, and get in touch when the draft is ready. Then there are others, and you can always tell who they are, who want much more interaction. I won't say they're controlling, but they want verification that their trust in you is warranted.

For those clients, I give them a weekly, point-by-point email of what's been done, what's being done, and what's next on the agenda. It helps them see the progress, and it gives them a chance to change up some things if need be.

I too like email best as I can get the info in front of them accurately. Plus, it's a record of what they've agreed to.

One thing I've noticed in the freelance community is a reluctance to pick up the phone. Like you, Jake, I prefer things in writing; however,sometimes a quick phone call is the best way to get a response or diffuse a potential problem. If I'd like the discussion in writing, I simply follow up with an email documenting the key points.