Telemarketers sell products, services, and memberships over the phone.

Telemarketers take orders for businesses and ask people to donate money to charities. They call potential customers to explain a service or product. They quote prices to persuade people to buy or subscribe. Telemarketers may set up appointments with sales representatives or agents.

Telemarketers follow a prepared sales script. They work from lists of customers' names. Their call lists may include people who bought products, services, or memberships before, or donated money. Telemarketers keep records of their calls and the results. They make most calls during the evening when more people are available.

Some telemarketers carry out opinion polls and surveys. They may interview people to find out about their spending habits or political views. They may also call for opinions about products or services.