Even then, I'm not sure you'd have much better luck.

Those companies are so slammed right now, answering the phone is the least of their problems. They're worried about hiring people to just get the bare minimum done. Plus, whoever you're calling, the guy is probably out working himself, which is something he hasn't had to for the past decade because he's either had enough employees to do the work, or the workload was a lot lighter and he or she was actually looking for more business.

I haven't taken on any new customers this year, and I'm still working on stuff from last summer with 25% of my normal workforce. I do what I can to answer to my cell phone, and I have a secretary that answers most phone calls and returns most voice mails at our office. But I literally can't keep up with the calls and returning calls. Every other day, I'm clearing off 30-50 unheard voice mails from people wanting me to go do a "free estimate" or just commit to going to do work, when I honestly don't even think I'll get everything done that we already have on our plate before snow falls. And this is in an area with 15,000 residents. I can't imagine what Wasatch Front companies are experiencing right now.

I'm doing everything I can to appease existing and long-term customers. While I understand your frustration, it pales in comparison to what most business owners are going through right now. New business is something that I can't even think about right now. If I happen to be available to answer a phone call and tell you I'm not interested, then consider that a bonus. Otherwise, if you don't get a call back, it's safe to assume they don't need your business.

I had a good, long term customer just tell me yesterday they'd pay me $5,000 to do a $1,000 job if I could get it done by the end of the month.

On the flip side, I feel your pain. I'm building a new shop/office, and it's taken almost twice as long because I've had a heck of a time getting subs to show up. And that's with my connections to many of the subs and many generals in the area.