If you call once or twice and we don't answer, it's because we're busy. We don't just talk on the radio; sometimes talking to the center or tower takes a minute. You hear dead air, but we might be relaying important information on the landline.

Also, if you were handed off from another controller (say, if you're IFR), and I don't get to you right away, be patient and stop blocking the frequency. I never understand when pilots keep trying to check in 40 miles from the airport and keep blocking the frequency as I am trying to turn someone onto the localizer or something. We see you....if it's busy and you don't get the chance to check in, I will reach out to you when I need you to do something.