Rescue Me: Automated Calls Get You Out of Dates, Meetings

It always annoys me to hear about people arranging to have their friends call them mid-date so they can claim an emergency and leave. Honestly, if you’re on the first date with an internet buddy and you’re just not that into it, say so. It’s not that hard to look them in the eye, smile, […]

Telephone554
It always annoys me to hear about people arranging to have their friends call them mid-date so they can claim an emergency and leave. Honestly, if you're on the first date with an internet buddy and you're just not that into it, say so. It's not that hard to look them in the eye, smile, and say, "I think we can both see that this is not going to go anywhere, so let's part now and not let it get any more awkward. I hope you find what you're looking for." And throw down enough money to cover whatever you've ordered (plus tax and tip!), and leave. I've done this and had it done to me. It's so much more respectful of the other person than a transparently fake call.

But. If you're not that secure, you can schedule a pretend call from Popularity Dialer. Enter your phone number, choose a date and time, and then when you're in a situation you knew ahead of time you might want out of, there's your excuse.

The service offers a few different "callers" to offer one side of a conversation (you are supposed to fill in your side). Pick a male voice or a female voice to ask what you're up to and invite you out later, or pick a cousin "in need" (he asks for money) or a boss (who's just lame). I actually liked the "affirmation" recording -- a nice man who goes on and on about how great you are. "Seriously, you're just awesome." Now isn't that nicer than a lie?