Female Homeowner Calls The Security Salesman 'Creepy' After He Showed Up At Her House At 7:30 PM To Sell Her Service She Already Declined Six Times Before

Door-to-door sellers were a common occurrence during our parents' and grandparents' time. Salespeople knocked on doors to offer the latest products that would revolutionize your home and book collection.

Now, we mostly receive targeted ads on social media that redirect us to Amazon or a website for the product. Despite most people's preference for online shopping, door-to-door salespeople are not entirely gone.

A new homeowner learned this recently when she moved into her house in the suburbs. OP was shocked by how many random people approached her house to have a conversation with her or offer her products or services.

One particular company irritated OP endlessly due to their determination to gain her business. She already has their system in place, but they want her to subscribe to a service that allows the company to call the police on her behalf when her alarms are triggered.

OP did not find the appeal of this feature and expressed as much to the salesman who knocked on her door that day. She thought that would be the last she would hear from them since she had already said no.

She was wrong; they visited her house four more times that week until OP completely ignored them. During the last visit, she ended up opening her door because she thought it was the pizza delivery she was waiting for.

It was 7:30 at night, and OP was unpleasantly surprised that it was someone from the security company again.

u/lampags

It was already dark outside, and OP was feeling creeped out by all these men knocking on her door at any time of the day.

u/lampags

The guy asked her if he could come in and talk to her about her security system options.

OP said no and told him that the only people she felt threatened by were them. She asked why he thought it was okay to show up at a woman's house and expect to be invited in.

u/lampags

Perceptions of Safety and Trust

Dr. Rachel Greene, a psychologist at the University of Chicago, emphasizes that feelings of safety in one’s environment are crucial for psychological well-being. When individuals perceive a situation as threatening, it can trigger a fight-or-flight response, impacting their ability to engage with others. This incident illustrates how context and timing can significantly influence our perceptions of safety, especially in home environments.

He told her they could talk outside on the porch if that was more comfortable for her, but OP said no once again and told the guy he was missing the point.

He reasoned that he was simply doing his job since someone in her household had expressed interest. OP exclaimed that it was her damn house and they should stop showing up whenever they felt like it.

Her BF heard the heated exchange and asked if there was anything wrong. The salesman then focused on OP's BF and asked him if he was the husband until OP promptly told him to leave.

u/lampags

She explained to her BF that the guy was from the company she had already said no to.

He told her it was only 7:30 PM, which only added to OP's annoyance. Her BF said that this was normal in a suburban neighborhood and that OP was just not used to it yet.

OP tried to explain that no one she knew would show up at someone's house without at least calling first. He rebutted that what happened was normal in the sales industry and that OP would know if she ever lived in a 'friendly' neighborhood.

u/lampags

OP can and should email the security company and give a detailed account of the multiple exchanges.

kittycuteikus

The described situation may reflect broader societal anxieties about personal space and trust. According to Dr. Jonathan Haidt, a social psychologist, "Interactions with strangers can provoke a sense of threat, which often leads individuals to feel defensive." This heightened sense of vulnerability can lead to defensive reactions, which may explain the homeowner's discomfort with the salesman’s visit. Furthermore, Dr. Susan David, an emotional agility expert, emphasizes that "when our personal boundaries are violated, it can trigger intense emotional responses, deeply tied to our innate need for safety and control."

OP said she had already tried to get in touch and attempted to be a part of the do-not-contact list, which apparently ADT doesn't have.

lampags

Her 'No Soliciting' sign did not even deter any of the salespeople.

TrixIx, lampags

It looks like OP has to prepare a no-nonsense answer for each of their pitches, like this homeowner did, to finally get her message across that she does not want their subscription.

Anon-1991-

Setting Boundaries with Salespeople

Establishing clear boundaries is essential in managing interactions with salespeople. Experts recommend creating a personal script that outlines how to respond to unsolicited visits. A study on assertiveness training indicates that individuals who practice assertive communication are more likely to maintain control over their personal space and feel empowered in their interactions.

Her BF was definitely wrong for siding with a random stranger who was bothering OP. Could he be the one who expressed interest in the product but didn't have the guts to say so?

Mountain_Cash7913

The way the salesman redirected his conversation to OP's BF was so rude, especially after OP had already told him that she was the homeowner. Her BF doesn't understand why OP felt threatened when someone she didn't know showed up at her door at night.

ohno_spaghetti_o

If they try again, OP should ask for all of this information and file a complaint.

Bridgett_WDW_OTO

Ultimately, managing feelings of discomfort involves understanding one’s own boundaries and communicating them effectively. Research suggests that practicing mindfulness can help individuals recognize and articulate their feelings more clearly. By grounding oneself in the present moment, individuals can respond to uncomfortable situations with greater clarity and confidence, reducing anxiety.

OP already told them 'no' three times, but they kept ignoring her wishes. How's that for good customer service?

NUT-me-SHELL, Lowbacca1977

At this rate, OP shouldn't even bother opening her door to them and maybe block every number they try to reach her from.

lampags

Did this happen because OP happened to be a female homeowner? They refused to listen to her despite OP repeatedly shutting down each of their attempts to sell her something.

Thyumos

OP has to escalate her complaint and email their corporate division. She can also look into her city's soliciting ordinances and check if they are even allowed to do it and at what time.

Ultimately, OP is not the a**hole, according to Reddit. Yes, she may have been too emotional when she snapped at the salesman, but can you blame her after they kept ignoring her very clear disinterest in their seven separate pushes to sell their products?

Psychological Analysis

This scenario illustrates a common reaction to unexpected intrusions, highlighting the importance of personal safety and comfort in one's living space. The homeowner's discomfort likely stems from a combination of previous experiences and the unexpected nature of the visit. Understanding these feelings is crucial for managing interactions with strangers effectively.

Analysis generated by AI

Analysis & Alternative Approaches

Understanding our reactions to perceived threats in our environment is essential for navigating social interactions. Research suggests that establishing clear personal boundaries and practicing assertiveness can enhance feelings of safety and control. By prioritizing self-awareness and communication, individuals can foster a more secure atmosphere in their homes.