I've mentioned this on other threads, but I'll repeat it here: I've been working at a telephone research company all summer. I do telephone surveys. Now, a phone survey is NOT "telemarketing" because we are asking people to share their opinions, not their hard earned cash. Even with the "Do Not Call" list, telephone surveys are still permitted.
Granted, I get hung up on quite a bit. I expect that. However, I am extremely polite and most people are polite in return. I get great response from people over 70 in the mid-west and in the South. Floridians are very rude, as are New Yorkers.
People think they are being very witty when I call and they ask ME for my phone number, so they can call me back when it's convenient for them. I graciously comply, only I give them the number of "Dial-A-Prayer" at the local Methodist church!
"Long live God!" (GODSPELL)