Today my roommate got a call from a telemarketer. A representative from from MBNA, the bank that has those Texas A&M credit cards, was trying to get him to buy something. About 27 seconds into the conversation, my roommate stated that he wasn't interested in the offer. Then she continued to jabber on for another 10 seconds!

What's with these people! They can't seem to understand no. Maybe they should attend those sexual harrassment seminars that business folks have to attend. There is where you learn, "No Means No!" I wonder if they are getting paid per second they keep you on the line? Why else would they not get to their product description until they spew out 20 or 30 seconds of useless introduction? And when you deny their offer, they proceed to explain why you are wrong for not choosing their product or service. That's stupid. Most people I know happen to know what they want and don't want. (There are some exceptions, but that's another article.)

I wonder where these telemarketing firms get these people. Their employees appear to be mentally incompetent. Also, some of these companies have discriminatory policies, though they may be due to regulation. Almost half ask for the "Man of the house," and if he is not available say, "I guess they lady of the house will do." Are they saying that the husband must make all decisions not to buy something? A marriage joins two people. There should be no differentiation. Once, and once only, did a salesperson ask for the person who can make a decision about telephone service. That makes sense.

Too bad nothing else they do makes sense.