1. Say “Please hold on” set phone down, walk away and continue with your day. Telemarketers are trained to wait on the line for as long as possible, hoping that you will eventually come back and engage with them. By putting them on hold and walking away, you are effectively wasting their time and preventing them from bothering others.
2. Develop a script. Create a simple and polite response that you can use whenever a telemarketer calls. For example, you can say, “Thank you for your call, but I’m not interested. Please remove me from your calling list.” By having a prepared response, you can quickly end the conversation without getting drawn into a long discussion.
3. Avoid engaging in conversation. Telemarketers are trained to be persuasive and may try to keep you on the line by engaging in casual conversation. However, it’s best to avoid getting drawn into any discussions or debates. Politely but firmly reiterate that you are not interested and wish to end the call.
4. Register your number on the Do Not Call Registry. In many countries, there is a national Do Not Call Registry that allows you to opt out of receiving telemarketing calls. Take advantage of this service to reduce the number of unwanted calls you receive.
5. Consider using a call-blocking app or service. There are various call-blocking apps and services available that can help you filter out unwanted calls, including telemarketers. These apps often use a database of known telemarketing numbers to automatically block them from reaching your phone.
6. Hang up immediately. If a telemarketer is particularly persistent or aggressive, it’s best to simply hang up. Remember, you have the right to end the call at any time if you are not interested. Don’t feel obligated to stay on the line or engage with them.
7. Report persistent or illegal calls. If you continue to receive unwanted calls from telemarketers, especially if they are using unethical or illegal practices, report them to the appropriate authorities. In many countries, there are regulatory agencies specifically tasked with handling complaints against telemarketers.
Remember, handling telemarketers can be frustrating, but it’s important to remain polite and assertive. Implementing these tips can help you minimize unwanted calls and regain control over your phone line.