Not necessarily in order:
I knock on the door if there is any possibility kids could be in the home. If they ask why I tell them I would never want to wake their children from a nap by ringing the bell.
After knocking I take a couple steps back and wait a good arm's length from the door. I also stare directly at the door so that if they look through the peep hole they don't see me casing the house. Makes women feel at ease as they are usually home alone.
I don't move an inch from my waiting spot until I've been invited to.
Shoes come off immediately. Most of the time I leave them outside on the porch. And I buy socks like candy. When they start looking old I toss 'em out. Can't go into a nice home with dirty socks, or socks with holes.
During the walk through I let them do all the talking unless I'm addressed, besides some occasional "Uh-huhs" and "Okays" so they know I'm listening. They never really hear me talk until after I've compiled all the info and have their estimate ready. I know a lot of you don't use the word estimate, but that's what clients call it, so that's what I call it.
I try to make sure my handwriting on the estimate is neat. Mispellings are no-nos. If I can't spell a word I look it up on my smart phone.
Then I hit them with a barrage of questions:
May I park on the drive?
Will any vehicles need in or out of the garage?
Any loose pets?
Are you sensitive to any fragrances?
This will take 2 to 3 hours, is that ok?
If I need water is there a spigot available?
Do you expect your children to be playing outside while I'm here?
May I use your front door to run the hoses through?
Do you have a preference where I start? Is it ok if I start upstairs?
I usually leave lights off and ceiling fans on. Is that ok?
I don't ask all questions to all clients, but it's pretty close. For instance, a lot of times I use the spigot without asking, but that is a terrible idea because you don't know if it's leaking or will flood the basement.
First thing I do on set up is make sure corner guards are wiped down and clean, and get them placed.
I will not wear shoe covers so I throw 2 brand new terry towels right inside the door. As I'm setting up I put one foot on each and skate around on them. My shoes never touch a hard floor.
After the work I ask permission to remove the hoses from inside. I let them know they can feel free to look around first.
As they are writing the check or whatever I make sure they see me wiping up any little drips of water. I use my shoe towels to sweep the area near whichever door I used so that I can get it cleaned up nicely.
Then I might play with their dog a little even though I hate dogs. Usually don't talk to the kids too much besides maybe a polite "hello" or something. Don't wanna come across as a total
RCC type of guy.
I don't just hand them booties. I bring the whole box in and say "Would your family benefit from some shoe covers? Take as many as you think you need". I bring the box in so they can see they are brand new and unused booties, and pull them out themselves.
After I'm done, whether they see me or not, I have a broom in the truck I use to sweep mulch, grass clippings, rocks or any other debris from off the sidewalk. Rolling up hoses and stuff can make a mess outside.
I also carry a section of carpet pad cut into a neat square. If they have a pristine driveway, or the husband is outside mowing or something, I throw it under the oil pan of the truck. Get a lot of "thanks" or thumbs up from attentive husbands on riding mowers for that.
Probably tons more that I do that seems so natural now I'm not even thinking of it. Can't wait to see what other guys have to say.