[sambeau]

My old boss had the motto:

  "Treat the cleaners like they're The Queen; treat The Queen like she's a cleaner"

I took this to mean: treat cleaners with respect & appreciation; do not fawn and scrape to your bosses.

Similarly: "grief travels up, praise travels down" and "be nice to those you meet on your way up as you may well meet them again on your way down".

I use all of these mantras on a daily basis and I believe they work. I can't guarantee my food is spittle free but I have never had reason to believe otherwise.

I confess I have been known to break this rule with phone spammers.

[keithpeter]

Caretakers and canteen staff.

I'm a teacher: the canteen staff know a surprising amount about students and can spot changes in mood/attitude very quickly. Its uncanny. Caretakers basically run the building. Advanced warning of furniture moving needs, and any special setups and a quick word of thanks afterwards, ensures smooth running. Good reception staff know where everyone is.