We get many phone solicitors for various products and services. My husband just hangs up on them. But, I feel that is impolite. My husband says I'm too polite, and I end up listening to the telemarketer's entire sales pitch. I do keep saying "no thanks," but they keep talking and I keep listening. How can I politely hang up?
Signed,
Too Polite
Dear Too Polite,
If you don't already have one, get an answering machine and screen your phone calls. If it's an important call, you pick up immediately or return the call when you can. Telemarketers generally do not leave phone messages.
If you do end up speaking with a phone solicitor, then say "I'm sorry, we're not interested. Thanks anyway." Then, without waiting for a reply, quickly hang up. Do not feel guilty, and think of it as doing them a favor by not wasting their time and yours.