While I was minding my own business today an elderly individual came up to me asking me what I thought about the world and its future. I thought that was an odd question and as he was carrying a binder I had to wonder what he was trying to sell. In this case it seemed harmless and so I just engaged in a conversation. Eventually, he started talking about how the world was going bad and that his group is say the sane one. He was apparently involved with a Jehovah’s Witness organization. Regardless, out of politeness I just heard him say his bit.
Funny enough, usually when it comes to pitches like these people would say you should expect to get rejected where you need to develop a compelling elevator speech to prevent that. But many times, I would just let me present whatever it is that they are trying to sell. I guess it’s similar to those people in the supermarket that start with small talk to then try and sign you up for their credit card.
This would probably get too overwhelming if you were really say famous or influential in an industry as everyone will be randomly pitching you. That would make it sound like you should learn to say no or pass when it comes to unsolicited interactions in these ways. This incident actually took about 30 minutes of my time. I guess on the other end, it shows you how approaching everyone will eventually get you someone that will listen.