I don't know if it was the same year or not, my dad had ordered himself a custom designed onyx ring. He'd put down a deposit, and was supposed to pay the remaining $100 or when he picked it up. I took the call when the ring was ready, and my siblings decided to surprise him, pay the balance, and give it ti him for Christmas a couple weeks later. So I went to the store in my SLIGHTLY ratty everyday winter coat one day. The store was empty and no one asked if they could assist me. Assuming I was just browsing, they just kept an eye that I didn't steal anything. Someone else came in, in a nicer coat, and got immediate service. That's when I said, loudly, "I was here first, and I WAS going to buy something, but you obviously don't want MY business," and walked out.

Of course, I also learned a nice coat can cover a multitude of fashion sins.

It reminds me of one of the worst habits of salespeople. When they realize you're not buying, they turn off the charm. Hell, a few of them have turned off the warmth. One woman was so cold I had to wonder how long she'd be in that job. And where would she move to? If it was into another sales job and I came across her, I'd have nothing to do with her.

I'd offer a reminder to some writers who might not yet realize it: If/when your contact retires or moves on to a different job or position where they'll no longer have a need for your services, don't cease communications with them because they can't dole out any more work. Stay in touch. First, no relationship should be based only on what's in it for you. Second, they're still probably in a position to recommend you when their former colleagues need a good writer.

You know, like a friendship. 🙂