I was a telemarketer once, for about five hours, at a time in my life when I couldn't find any other options.

My supervisors said that I had a fine phone voice but was far too ready to take no for an answer.

Just remember that the caller almost certainly doesn't want to be a telemarketer - and didn't make up the stupid script - and has to follow the stupid script to keep the job.

I suggest the brief and frank response: "Not interested," or "I don't take phone solicitations," then hang up.

Marion

PS Thanks to WYSIWIG, Jeri, McGrath, Rick, Rowana, and anyone I've overlooked who spared a word of sympathy for telemarketers. And speaking of cabby licenses, I just got mine today! I wonder if that means anything...