A Rude Removal

(We often get a lot of telemarketers and whatnot calling into the store. We all have the authority to ask them to remove us from their calling lists. This call happens one quiet afternoon.)

Me: “[Store]. This is [My Name] speaking. How may I help you?”

Caller: “Yes, is this [Store]?”

Me: “Yes, it is. My name is [My Name]; how may I help you?”

Caller: “I need to speak to the manager or whoever is in charge of your utility service.”

Me: “I’m afraid they aren’t available. Would you like to leave a message?”

Caller: “No. What is the name of the manager or person in charge of your utility services?”

Me: “I am unable to give out that information. What company are you calling from please?”

Caller: *launching into spiel* “This is [Marketing-sounding name], calling to offer a free service to—”

Me: “I’m sorry to cut you off but we are perfectly happy with our current providers and would like to be removed from your list, please.”

Caller: “No, ma’am, we are not offering a new service. We want to give a free service to show you what percentage of your current providers—”

Me: “I’m sorry to cut you off again, but as I’m working I can’t be on the phone long. I appreciate your time but please remove us from your list.”

Caller: *sounding slightly farther away from the receiver* “Ma’am, you don’t understand we are—”

Me: “I do, though. I am asking politely to be removed from your list.”

Caller: *definitely farther from the mouthpiece now* “Ma’am, I am saying we are a company that specializes in—”

Me: “Please remove us from your list.”

Caller: *from a far distance* “Ma’am, you are being very rude.”

Me: “Are you holding the handset away from your head?”

Caller: *barely audible* “I’m not taking this anymore, ma’am. You’re being very rude. I will call back when you aren’t there.” *hangs up*