I actually despise people trying to sell me something or charities at my door and on the phone. I used to have this "No Solicitors Please" sign but don't have one now. I live in a fairly well off neighborhood, so door solicitors think we have money to burn. Do you have a "don't call registry"? If yes, then ask the phone people to put you on their do not call list.

Now I hang up or have fun messing with them like - "sorry the person you're asking for is dead. If they're asking for money, tell them you need money. I agree if I want to give to a charity, I'll do it voluntarily and same thing if I want to buy something.