QotD: Thanks But No Thanks
How do you handle phone calls from telemarketers?
Now this is my area of expertise. It is a skill that requires practice, but I can give some pointers....
For mobile phones...
"I am afraid we don't have any company phones"
For telephone call...
Say you have a policy in place and that they will need to fax through the price list for consideration. Say you can not arrange an appointment until they are short-listed and that can not happen unless they submit a clear price plan.
Utility bills...
"Our heating and electricity bill in included in the building rent"
Occasionally they will ask how own the building so tell them, if they ask for a number say you don't know but it is in the phone book. If they ask you to do it (yes, it did happen) then say, well say what you like, I did.
Surveys...
"We have a policy of not participating in surveys as so may sales calls are misrepresented as such"
...and if they push then they are defiantly not a respectable survey and are told as much.
Recruitment agencies...
Have a policy where you will not pay more than £750 of employment services, publicise this on the web site and require written confirmation from the agency before entering in to discussion or reviewing CVs. You may need to say "the details are on the web site" a few times, and "I am busy now but feel free to give me a call AFTER I have received the conformation". Remember to give nothing until you have the agreement in writing. Sadly you do need to be quite sharp with some, but you will get better over time.
Health insurance...
"I am sorry, we work with the health service and it is politically difficult for us to offer private health insurance."
American's selling investment opportunities...
...these are a real pain and hard to get rid off, just be direct and consistent and say no, no, no. Don't waver over anything or they will keep trying.
Also remember that just hanging up on someone is rude, so if the persists just close the conversation by saying "I am sorry I have to go" and then hang up before they have a chance to respond.