If you’d like to get rid of that telemarketer for good, don't do this...

Telemarketers are paid to be persistent. 

If you really want them to stop calling, here are some inside secrets from the folks on the other end of the line:

• Don’t hang up right away. Most telemarketers are instructed to mark this as a “no answer,” which means they’ll be calling again. The same goes for not answering.

• Don’t be too nice. Engaging in any way will give them hope and they’ll try even harder to convince you.

• Don’t get angry. A computer chose your number, not the human being on the line. If they don’t like you, they may just seek revenge by putting your name back into the “call back” pool.

• Don’t say it’s not a good time. They will try again.

• Most telemarketers go by a “three no” rule. Give them a firm but polite “no.” Then assure them that you are not interested. Then ask to be taken off the list. That’s three nos and you’re best chance to not get a call back.