Turning them off
Sir Henry Gilbert told us: “A policeman’s lot is not a happy one.” From what I’ve heard from Western Producer readers, telemarketers too must find life wearing at times.
In our May 15 issue I asked subscribers to write in and tell how they deal with salespersons who ring our phones just when we’re relishing an Irish stew or watching Jeopardy on television.
Esther Adair of Donalda, Alta., says she used to be polite to telemarketers, realizing they were trying to make a living, but when she chose not to donate it took too long to shake them off. Now as soon as they identify themselves she just says: “You’re wasting your time and mine.”
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Agatha Lissel of Jansen, Sask., says she listens to the pitch and then says: “Sorry, I’m not interested.” Then she hangs up.
Gladys Prier of Edmonton said: “I’m afraid I use the curt and surly response most of the time as I’m sick of so many calls asking for money.”
A Manitoban who asked not to be identified, uses the Seinfeld route. She says she is busy but if the telemarketer will leave a number, she’ll phone back perhaps after 10 that night. The salesperson, of course, refuses.
“You mean you don’t want me pestering you at home when you’re trying to enjoy your supper, or watching your favorite television program, or having sex with your spouse?”
The telemarketer agrees.
“There, now you know how I feel,” exclaims the doughty Manitoban, and hangs up.
Call-display telephones have been found useful.
You know immediately the call is from a telemarketer. No number and no name is given and this is the tipoff.
