The very essence of a great communicator!

I've been waiting for that knock at the door. You know...the knock of the friendly election canvasser anxious to see who I'm voting for in the general election. Funnily enough the only person who has knocked so far has been the chap from some energy company wanting me to change supplier. I thought at the time well you're either very brave or a bit daft...if there's ever a time when you won't be welcome on the doorstep it's right now.

There's an awful lot been said and written about Direct or "Door-to-Door" Salesmen...and a lot of it was awful! The utilities industry in particular has come in for a lot of attention with consumer groups, suppliers, Regulators and journalists having plenty to say about questionable door-step practices. Society in general has been quick to knock the door knockers!
I know there are some rascals out there....I've met a few of them. But having spent several years working in this industry I've gained a tremendous respect for what door step selling can teach you...and a huge regard for those that do it well. 
Because let's face it, it's tough! We all make it so because we don't like strangers knocking on our door. Some very natural instincts are triggered off as we open it. Defensive, protective, aggressive instincts that get us thinking: Who are you? What do you want? What right have you to disturb me? What are you doing in my space? How quickly can I get rid of you?
...and all of this before the poor bloke (they're mostly guys) has had a chance to open his mouth!.
Handling that situation successfully and ethically requires skilled application of those familiar  universal persuasion skills:
- Body language that instantly reassures and relaxes...
- Facial expression and voice tone that creates rapport...
- Clarity and brevity that immediately gains attention and interest...
- Attentive questioning and listening that quickly confirms a need...
- Conversational pacing and leading that reasssuringly satisfies a need.
Plus that other universal persuasion quality - positive attitude and the ability to reframe. The attitude which says "This is good...I can talk to 10 prospects just by knocking on 100 doors!. Whilst the "losers" will only ever complain about the rejection.
Door to Door selling is an exceptional "learning academy" instilling habits that transfer to any persuasion role. You don't prevaricate through fear of failure...you just get on with it, again and again because success is waiting. You learn from the continuous feedback and strive to improve again and again... and you become exceptionally good at it!   Ultimately you "graduate" as the very essence of a great communicator:

• clear and concise with your words...
• engaging and compelling with your body language. ...
• driven by unshakeable self-belief! 

So bring it on you election canvassers. Let's see your doorstep persuasion skills.
Actually thinking back to my friend the Utility Salesman. I've changed my mind. This is probably a time when people will be glad it is you knocking on their door!