I asked the many contractors who post regularly on The Wall at HeatingHelp.com to tell me what they like (and don’t like) about the counter people at their suppliers. Here’s some of what they had to say. I hope you find it to be good food for thought.
A contractor who works mainly in New York City said, “I deal with one large, busy wholesaler in NYC that has six guys behind the counter at all times. The banter between them is endless; and finishing their jokes and telling stories always takes precedence over taking an order, or filling one accurately. I realize it's great to provide a friendly work environment and it's wonderful that coworkers get along so well, but you gotta get me and my guys out of the supply house. It's incredibly expensive for us to be there for any amount of time.”