from my observation, it seems that if your case hasn't been ready for adjudication, it's very likely that you won't be connected to an IO.
Besides, you usually need some legitimate opener other than a direct status or NC inquiry. If you have a long pending case, you saw LUD without content change, etc. you have a better chance to talk to an IO and get more information. If you don't have any of these "excuses" (they need to be real not just that you say so), you won't get much through phone calls.
If your case hasn't reached the adjudication stage, the best bet is to go for an Infopass appointment.
Good luck!
Besides, you usually need some legitimate opener other than a direct status or NC inquiry. If you have a long pending case, you saw LUD without content change, etc. you have a better chance to talk to an IO and get more information. If you don't have any of these "excuses" (they need to be real not just that you say so), you won't get much through phone calls.
If your case hasn't reached the adjudication stage, the best bet is to go for an Infopass appointment.
Good luck!