Handling Telemarketers: Strategies and Tips

Telemarketing calls can be a nuisance, but they're not always easy to deal with. However, there are effective ways to manage these calls, including registering your number with a Do Not Call registry, being vigilant when checking terms and conditions, and employing simple but effective techniques if you do get a call.

Understanding the Do Not Call Registry

The most effective method to reduce legitimate sales calls is to sign up with the national Do Not Call registry. This registry prompts companies to stop calling after a few weeks, even if your number is already on their call list. When you receive a sales call, you can assert your presence on the registry and most companies will apologize and hang up. Many legitimate businesses have their own internal Do Not Call lists, and some even extend this by confirming additional phone numbers to ensure you are on their prohibits call list.

However, beware of car companies, as they often have hidden provisions in their contracts. Even if you're on the national registry, you might encounter a section during a car purchase where you are asked to confirm your acceptance of further sales calls related to the car or its accessories. Be cautious and avoid checking these boxes or ensure that they are removed from your contract.

Dealing with Scammers and Unethical Salespeople

Unfortunately, scammers and less ethical salespeople do not respect Do Not Call lists. If you've registered your number for a year and still receive calls, the chances are high that the caller is not a legitimate business. Sadly, there's no foolproof way to stop scammers from contacting you, but the more aware you are, the better off you'll be.

Personal Strategies for Dealing with Telemarketers

Over time, I've developed a straightforward approach to handling telemarketer calls. If I receive a call from an unknown number, I let it go to voicemail and ignore landline calls, as they are highly unlikely to come from a legitimate source. For medical emergencies, a landline is invaluable.

When telemarketing calls were more frequent, I dealt with them in two ways:

After saying I am not interested and take me off your call list and hanging up immediately. Occasionally laughing at them, especially during humorous or absurd scenarios like the man of the house call where I told the caller the cat was outside.

At the end of the day, there's no point in wasting your time on entertaining telemarketers. Instead, find more effective forms of entertainment to keep you engaged.