In the summer time I try and get more creative and when ever possible I’ll climb onto a roof or go by the water for example.
Except when I’m working for this one particular elderly couple. I don’t even pack my lunch because they always cook for me.
Edit: Done
I used to do support for residential computers. 80% of my clients were seniors needing help.
Best thing about that job was all the grandmas that would instantly make me food when I show up late and apologize “sorry, traffic is killing me today. I had to skip lunch to make your scheduled appointment”
I’d start the job and food would magically appear. I’d either do the job first or eat at the same time depending.
Afterwards all the conversations with them were great.
One favorite was this one grandma that was a WoW head during its hype. She was in a guild with her grandkids. Knew her shit too.
Interactions with customers was what I worried about most when starting my business, but honestly, they’re the ones reviving my faith in humanity. Too much time online makes you think average people are just assholes, but they’re the opposite.
I’ve met so many awesome people through this job. People in general are nice, polite, and considerate - it’s extremely rare that I run into someone I don’t like. I even made a friend out of this one Indian dude who doesn’t even speak my language.
Being offered food or coffee is pretty common. Some hand me free tools they no longer need. I’ve gotten a gift basket and even a hand-made Christmas card. It’s such a stark contrast to the thankless job I did for a decade before going self-employed.
Edit: With elderly couples especially, it amuses me how it has often felt like visiting grand-parents.
I think people really need to talk to each other in person more regularly. Do things for each other and not just because they work a job. I wish there was an easier way to get people to leave their homes.
That’s because you’re in Finland, mate!
Posting this as a fellow Finn.
Nice.
I worked renovating framing, drywall, plumbing and electrical. We had one job putting in a new electrical stack, panel and wiring in the canadian winter that was cold even with a propane heater running in the room.
The older Greek owner made a homemade hot stew that was absolutely amazing.