07/09/2026
One of the greatest parts of being a service technician has nothing to do with electricity, plumbing, or HVAC. It has everything to do with people.
Every home has a story. Sometimes it’s a military flag on the wall. Sometimes it’s a picture of their grandkids. Sometimes it’s an old car in the garage. Today it was this custom leather pouch from the 1996 Oregon State Shoot.
Most technicians would walk right past it because they’re focused on getting to the panel. I stopped, asked about it, and suddenly I wasn’t talking to a customer anymore. I was talking to someone who was proud of an accomplishment, excited to share a piece of their life, and appreciated that someone noticed.
That conversation didn’t cost me a minute. It bought me something much more valuable. Trust.
The best technicians don’t just inspect electrical systems. They inspect the home for opportunities to connect with the people who live there. If you walk into a house and immediately start talking about breakers, wires, and prices, you’re just another contractor. If you take a genuine interest in the homeowner first, you become someone they enjoy having in their home.
The funny thing is, every house gives you the answers. Trophies. Hunting mounts. Family photos. Vacation souvenirs. Sports memorabilia. Musical instruments. Antique collections. They’re all conversation starters just waiting to be noticed.
People love talking about the things they’re passionate about. When they know you care about them as a person, they naturally become more comfortable listening to what you have to say.
Slow down.
Look around.
Be curious.
The coolest thing you find in the home might not be the electrical issue. It might be the conversation that turns a service call into a lifelong customer.