With a concern for personal safety, most people don’t like to answer the door to strangers. It’s also very annoying to get unsolicited sales calls to your home. Many companies have transitioned to different marketing methods, but door-to-door sales haven’t been eliminated completely. Besides sales, there are also a few other companies that will still send someone to ring your doorbell.

  1. Vacuum cleaners – There are some high end vacuum cleaners that are still sold door-to-door. Since they are priced much higher than other store models, most people wouldn’t consider buying them, so the company relies on in-home demonstrations of their superior quality to make sales.
  2. Cosmetics – Although Avon and other cosmetic companies do use other marketing methods, you may still get a visit from the traditional Avon or Mary Kay lady in your neighborhood.
  3. Insurance – Most insurance companies have agents that have an office location to conduct business, but there are still some who rely on the traveling salesperson. Don’t be surprised to find someone at your door selling supplemental health or life insurance.
  4. Deliveries – Companies like UPS and Fedex that deliver packages will be ringing your bell. Even your mailperson will come to your door if they have something too big to fit in your mailbox or postal slot.
  5. Meter readers – If you have utilities that require a meter reading, it’s likely you’ll have someone show up to check your meter. Even if they have an automated system, they will send someone out periodically to make sure your meter is accurate.
  6. Girl Scouts – Someone most people look forward to seeing at their door is Girl Scouts selling cookies. Even if you never buy cookies any other time, who can resist getting at least one box of delicious Girl Scout cookies?
  7. Fundraisers – There are several other companies that get students or club members to sell fruit, candy, magazines or other items to their friends and neighbors for fundraisers. It might be the school band trying to raise money for new uniforms or students planning a class trip.
  8. Fresh produce – Some areas have local farmers that will deliver fresh produce right to your door. This is great for people who love fresh fruits and vegetables, but can’t raise them themselves.
  9. Dry cleaning – For people who have a tough time getting to the dry cleaners, there are companies who will pick up and deliver your cleaning. This is also great for people who need clothes dry cleaned on a regular basis.
  10. Diaper service – Disposable diapers are convenient, but they have become a huge environmental issue. This has prompted a revival of the cloth diaper for environmentally conscious parents. A diaper service will pick up the soiled diapers and deliver fresh, clean diapers to your home.

Nobody likes a pushy door-to-door salesperson interrupting them at home, but they’re still out there. Some companies continue to find this form of marketing effective. There are also many other companies who will send someone out to ring your doorbell when you least expect it. It’s a good idea to make sure you know who your regular delivery people or meter readers are and when you can expect them to call. Make appointments with salespeople you want to deal with to avoid unsolicited calls and never open the door to any suspicious stranger.

Filed under: utilities

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