There are people who make your life easier and there are people who make it damn near impossible. There's also a handful of people who, when you build a great relationship with them, can make your life awesome. From getting the right hair cut to getting served first at a crowded bar, these guys can really make a difference. These are the connections that count.
The Bartender
Is there anything more frustrating than standing at a crowded bar watching a bartender make up dozens of craft cocktails at a snail's pace? Probably not. A good bartender knows how to make every cocktail thats on the menu and most that aren't. They know a Negroni inside out, they they make it with your favourite gin and hey can do it quickly and measure it all by eye. Make a friend of your bartender and you'll open a door to a host of liquor recommendations, quick service and maybe, if you tip well enough, a shortcut to the front of the queue.
The Tailor
It can be hard enough to find a decent tailor let alone befriend one, but its definitely worth the effort to search out the best you can find. A skilled tailor can nip and tuck a good off the peg suit and make it look like you had it made on Savile Row. Its not just suits though, sports jackets, shirts and even denim can benefit from the tailor treatment. Take the time to find the right one and your tailor won't lie to you, he'll be (sometimes) brutally honest, he might even tell you things you don't want to know about your actual waist measurement but he will make you look a million dollars. Respect his opinion, he knows exactly what he's talking about.
The Mechanic
Aside from your home, your car is probably the most expensive thing you own and it pays to look after it. Motoring is an expensive hobby though. I know this because I used to drive an Alfa Romeo. Service costs are astronomical these days and labour costs are forever on the up. If you can find a trustworthy and friendly mechanic to look after your pride and joy then you can save a lot of money and know for sure you're getting a good job. Be a regular, head to the same place for your services and repairs and you'll build a relationship that could save you a fortune.
The Barber
A hair cut can make or break your entire look and we've all felt the confidence boost that comes from a great trim. These great trims can be hard to replicate from barber to barber though so consistency is key. As a rule, independents are always best. Ask around about the best places, what do people recommend? Also, do your self and your barber a favour and learn what different styles are called, someone who doesn't know or can't articulate what they want must be a barbers worst nightmare. Make good conversation while you're in the chair and make mental a note of your barber's name, his interests, what his girlfriend is called and follow up with him on your next visit. Barbers remember their favourite customers and a tip goes a long way to ensuring they look after you when you return.
The Barista
Everyone has their favourite coffee shop and if you're a regular you should make the effort to get to know the staff. Coffee Shops are a quick turnaround business, people are in and out in a matter of minutes with their takeaway cup so make conversation with the Barista and they'll remember you. They'll know what you order and you'll quickly become the guy who's triple shot flat white no sugar and a chocolate donut becomes just 'the usual'. Baristas work incredibly hard and they deserve a tip, you never know, that donut might be on the house next Monday.
Good luck in making these connections.
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