Talk-trait typologies
To see if the art of conversation is still alive and kicking in the digital age, BT commissioned psychologist Emma Kenny to do some research. This included looking at how much time people spend on 'quality conversations', with whom, and what kind of effect these conversations have on the way people feel and their relationships with loved ones.
Based on her research, Emma came up with the following Talk-traits. To see which one you are, don't forget to take the Talk-trait quiz!
Happy Chatter
If you're a Happy Chatter you really are a well-balanced individual. You find life, and those who share it with you, a joyful combination. You're independently spirited, yet have a warm, embracing heart. As a partner, friend and relative, you glide through life with the time-management efficiency of a magician, rarely breaking a sweat and always wearing a smile.
You value those who help to make your world the place it is, welcoming such individuals with true warmth and affection. Whilst others moan about not having time, you consider yourself its master, always prioritising those who matter.
You consider verbal communication to be the only type that truly matters, and you ensure that you use it as your first port of call. You're all about chat and hate chit* with a passion - you're the first to tell friends and family that you won't stand for it! You are likely to use the phone regularly to have good quality, uninterrupted conversations with those who matter.
*chit stands for 'call hurriedly in transit'
Social Butterfly
If you're a Social Butterfly you just love the hubbub of life and make the most of every minute.
But it's not all fun and games. You get so busy, you find yourself agreeing to four engagements all on the same night, and end up having to let someone down.
You've probably got a Facebook page with hundreds of friends, but how many of them do you properly catch up with? As a friend you're well meaning, but you rarely get the chance to have any quality time with your nearest and dearest.
Your hectic social schedule means your calls probably tend to be more chit* than chat. You can't be everything to all people, but you could really benefit from setting aside at least an hour a week where you say 'NO!' to nightlife and 'YES!' to giving loved ones your full attention over a proper chat.
*chit stands for 'call hurriedly in transit'
Impersonal Organiser
If you're an Impersonal Organiser you're motivated, reliable and focussed. You personify organisation and have the ability to compartmentalise your life, ensuring the most important tasks are completed first.
Unfortunately this can translate negatively into your communication style. You don't suffer fools, don't like small talk and have purpose in all that you do. You have your life pretty much mapped out and, whilst this is excellent for you, it can sometimes make you appear a little emotionally cold.
Whilst you are in regular contact with people you care for, you call because an arrangement has to be made. You'd never be one for idle gossip, but you definitely chit* more than you chat, as you tend to fit in calls around your schedule. You also have no issue with ignoring calls if they occur at times that don't fit your mood.
You would really benefit from stepping outside of your 'time boundaries' and catching up for a proper chat with close family and friends. So, put down the organiser and pick up the phone - you will be amazed at how great you feel!
*chit stands for 'call hurriedly in transit'
Duty Dialler
If you're a Duty Dialler you're well-meaning, but you struggle to prioritise the things which really matter. You're somebody who cares about your friends and loved ones, but life seems to get in the way of all your best laid plans. You're always dashing about and finish every day feeling like you've been rushed off your feet, but haven't achieved any of the things you set out to.
When it comes to keeping in touch with friends and family, with the best will in the world you often end up chitting* to them because you feel you should, rather than calling them for a proper chat. This can leave everybody feeling a little bit unfulfilled.
You need to stop, slow down and focus on the things that really matter. Partners and close friends have told you this but, for some reason, it's often easier to put off the important things and worry about keeping everything else ticking over.
Instead of calling out of guilt, you should concentrate on making calls that matter. By focusing on these, you get to have a great conversation, and they get to talk to you for all the right reasons.
*chit stands for 'call hurriedly in transit'
Unrung Hero
If you're an Unrung Hero you're a wonderful friend and partner and you are the first person people will turn to for some TLC. Whilst this is testament to their good opinion of you, they rarely give the same in return.
When it comes to communication, you're always the bridesmaid and never the bride. You really try to please, but you're such a pleaser and so reliable that you can be overlooked by your loved ones.
You love nothing better than a proper chat with your nearest and dearest from the comfort of your sofa, but instead of chat all you get is chit*. You never seem to be able to catch your loved ones when they're home so end up catching them when they're on the run from A to B. No matter what they might say, you can tell you haven't got their full attention.
You deserve some quality time and you need to demand it. Let people know that you recognise your worth. Make them realise that a 'chit' while they are out shopping is just not acceptable!
*chit stands for 'call hurriedly in transit'
E-vader
Whilst witty and popular, if you're an E-vader you are perhaps also a little shy. The digital age allows you to sidestep verbal communication, replacing it with social networking, text and email.
You love keeping in touch with friends and family, and are acutely aware of their role in your happiness. You have simply lost your voice. In fact, you regularly find yourself texting people and they respond quickly. This proves that people really want to hear from you!
On the rare occasions that you do actually speak on the phone, it's probably more chit* than chat - you squeeze in a call when you're on the way somewhere else so you won't have to talk for long. You need to remember how much those who love you like to hear your voice now and again. They won't judge you if you run out of conversation - not that you will once you get started. Making time to call them for a proper chat now and again will not only enhance your confidence, but will also remind you of how important you are to others.
*chit stands for 'call hurriedly in transit'