Understanding the psychology of the situation can help you retain control and end the engagement on your own terms.

Dr Paul Harrison, a senior marketing lecturer at Deakin University, knows consumer behaviour.

From his research into marketing, advertising and social psychology, Paul has learnt that the actions and tactics used by door-to-door marketers, in particularly sales people who try to solicit consumer contracts, use strategies to ensure consumers make decisions that are NOT in their best interests.

The most common technique used is overloading the householder with information, clouding their ability to make rational decisions.

"Door-to-door sales people aim to make some sort of a relationship. Letting them into your house is the first step as you are giving them permission to enter your home, and hence, psyche," says Paul.

This imposing situation makes the householder vulnerable and plays on a law of reciprocity that encourages people to return the time shared. This makes it harder for us to withdraw from the situation eg. decline their product and kick them out.

Psychological research has shown us that humans are notoriously trusting, positive, and generally apathetic when it comes to thinking too much about habitual behaviours.

Hence, it takes only a little effort on the part of a seller to convince us that everything is OK.
We make the choices that challenge us the least.

The Consumer Action Law Centre is offering ‘do not knock’ stickers as a tool that consumers can use to avoid door-to-door marketers.

As humans we feel we should reciprocate. If the sales person invests time in us we should do the same. 

If you'd like a 'Do Not Knock' sticker send a stamped self addressed envelope to

Consumer Law Action Centre
Level 7, 459 Little Collins St,
Melbourne,
Victoria, 3000

More info

If you've got any marketing complaints contact the Consumer Action Law Centre in Victoria.

If you're tired of unsolicited marketing telephone calls, go to www.donotcall.gov.au or call 1300 792 958 to be included on the Do Not Call register.