This is so true! I'd add a bit of variation in that "Once you answer the phone and commit to something, actually do it".
I've lived in three different states in the US and I've had the same problem any time I try to work with a contractor. It is impossible to get hold of anyone. When you do and leave a voice mail most of the time they do not call back. These were for landscapers, snow plow services, add on to driveway, roofers, furnace and air conditioner replacements, new kitchen floor. I had people say they would come out to quote, then never hear from them again. I'd have people who came out to quote and then when I called to say they won the job tell me they were no longer interested because my job was too small and not worth their time. I've told friends over and over, you could start any one of these types of businesses and if all you did was actually answer the phone and then actually show up and do the job, you could have a never ending stream of customers.