Do you have to cold call or door knock in 2026?

Start with a real check

The Australian Communications and Media Authority explains that the Do Not Call Register helps businesses remove protected numbers from calling lists. Calling a number found online does not make every call lawful. Consent, exemptions and the calling rules still matter. ACMA, Do Not Call Register

Example: a new employee receives a spreadsheet of phone numbers. Before calling, they ask who checked the list, what permission applies and how a request to stop will be recorded. That pause is a useful work habit.

Understand the job offer

An agency may expect a sales employee to seek new business. Another role may focus on inspections, existing enquiries, administration or property management. Ask for the expected tasks in writing. A vague promise that you can “do things your way” is harder to assess than a clear weekly plan.

Feeling uncomfortable about interrupting people is worth discussing. It does not answer whether you could enjoy the wider industry. You may prefer responding to enquiries or building repeat relationships, where those tasks are available.

Keep channels separate

Marketing email and SMS have their own requirements. ACMA says businesses need consent, sender identification and a working way to unsubscribe. A purchased list is not a shortcut around those duties. ACMA, Avoid sending spam

Door-to-door selling can raise different issues. The ACCC explains when unsolicited consumer agreement protections apply. Do not assume every doorstep chat is covered in the same way, or that property services are outside consumer law. Have the agency check the activity before sending staff out. ACCC, Telemarketing and door-to-door sales

Ask about safer alternatives

Possible tasks to discuss include handling incoming enquiries, preparing accurate local information, helping at approved events and following up people who have asked to hear from the agency. Each still needs suitable privacy and marketing checks. An alternative method is not automatically permission-free.

Lead supply, territory, supervision and campaign quality also affect the experience. Low response does not prove a worker lacks talent, and a high call target does not excuse ignoring someone’s wishes.

Your next step

Before accepting a role, ask for its prospecting mix, compliance training and escalation contact. Choose with a clear view of the tasks. If a manager cannot explain the rules, get that uncertainty resolved before making contact.