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Got offered a drink before even looking at the furnace.

One side says take it to build rapport, the other says it sets a bad tone. Thoughts?

3 comments

3 Comments

Yeah the small talk part is key, but you can't let it drag on. Accept the drink but find a way to get back to the furnace pretty quick, that's how it pays off.

mason.mark23h ago

Totally agree, turning it down is just awkward for no reason. I had a mechanic offer me a soda once while he looked at my car, and we chatted about the game that was on his radio. Later he threw in a wiper blade for free, just because. That five minute chat made it feel like we were on the same team, not a transaction.

the_nathan1d ago

Honestly taking the drink is the smart move here. Turning it down just makes things awkward right from the start. That person is trying to be friendly and a little small talk over a coffee can make them more willing to do a solid for you later. You get better service from someone who feels like you're a normal person, not just a customer. It sets a cooperative tone that might save you money or get you a quicker fix.