People often try to sell us something in which we are not interested.
They may be selling merchandise, ideas, religion or politics. At times, they want us to donate money to a cause.
How do you handle these people in a way that is respectful, but also indicates that you are not interested in their products? The following are assertive but respectful ways to deal with sales attempts.
Phone: Call display can pre-screen which calls you choose to answer. An answering machine or service can also screen calls. Tell friends to avoid calling during mealtimes. That is when most telephone solicitation occurs. Tell your friends you will check calls as soon as you finish your meal.
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At the door: You may have to say “I am not interested,” several times before a person gets the message. If they don’t, politely tell them you are going to close the door and then do it. If they try to block you, or try to come in, ask them if they understand the criminal meaning of assault, forced entry or harassment. Suggest that if they continue their behaviour, they may learn more about it.
When someone appears at your door and is not clear about why they are there, they are usually selling something. If you question them directly and they try to skirt around their purpose, this will quickly become evident. Some businesses or apartments post a “No Solicitors” notice. Homes can do this as well, and it might cut down on wasted time.
Mail: More than half my mail ends up in the recycle bin. You can handle unwanted mail many ways. Some put a “No Flyer” notice on their mailbox.
It helps avoid flyers, but also means people may not get important community notices.
When you get unsolicited mail, it often can be traced back to some firm or organization you deal with. Contact that organization. Ask to speak to the regional manager. Tell them you don’t want mailings. Most firms will respect your request.
And, if they get a lot of calls, they are motivated to do something.
Pierre Burton once handled unsolicited mail in a creative way. The letter included a postage-paid envelope for his hopefully positive response.
However, after he wrapped up a brick, attached this envelope to it and then put it in the mail, the company quickly took him off its mailing list.
Salespeople are a good resource when you are looking for a product or service. However, the key is to have a salesperson available when you want them, not when they want you.
Peter Griffiths is a mental health counsellor based in Prince Albert, Sask. His columns are intended as general advice only. His website is www3.sk.sympatico.ca/petecope.
