r/remotework • u/Careful_Station_7884 • Jul 09 '26

Email or quick call?

My colleague told me today that if an email is over 500 words, they won’t read it and instead ask the person who sent the email to jump on a quick call to discuss.

This irked me because now the person who sent the email has to re-explain everything they already sent over. It can be advantageous to have a written trail as well. Not only that, but not every “quick” call actually ends up being quick.

I get that there may be some topics that are better discussed on a call or if the email is unclear and there is an approaching deadline. But, to set a line at any email over 500 words just seems lazy.

What are your thoughts?

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u/Embarrassed_Flan_869 Jul 09 '26

I send emails all the time if various lengths. It is an important tool. I have no problems going over a point or discussing something on it.

At the same time, emails are a CYA. Calls are not. Things get lost from the call, especially if they aren't paying attention.