Please don’t think I’m rude, but if you call me, I’m not likely to answer the phone unless I was expecting your call.
I’m not going to answer because often you are calling when I am in the middle of something, but there is no way for you to know that.
So rather than sounding irritated when I answer the phone, I simply don’t answer and let it go to voice mail. I find this quite helpful.
If you are a reporter, I want to hear your message so I can identify the information you require. I have even set my voice mail message to include my email address to make it easier for reporters to make their request.
Emails work better for me because if I am in a meeting and there is a break, I can quickly check my emails and usually respond. Otherwise, it might be another hour or two until I return to my desk, and the person who is calling might need something much more quickly.
If you are a salesperson, once I have listened to the message I can determine if I am interested in the product and schedule a convenient time for both of us to talk.
If you are relaying information, then once I hear the message, I have the information and I can finish the project that required the information.
What are your thoughts on telephone interruptions?
Cynthia's Communique 
I have a different point of view with regard to phone calls. I encourage them, especially for candidates to follow up on their resume submissions. I’m an executive recruiter and value long term candidate relationships. I sit in front of my computer most of the day. When candidates call to respond to job openings, I view the calls as signals that the candidates care enough to follow directions to talk with a recruiter. Since so few people call these days, the ones who do get my attention and support. Also, it gives me a chance to verify if I have indeed received that person’s resume. I then have a more in depth conversation. It’s a win on both sides.