Brad Humphrey’s weekly column, “The Contractor’s Best Friend,” not only delivers sage advice contractors can use to address the challenges of operating a successful business, but also describes why so many contractors rely on his easygoing mannerisms punctuated by clear, provocative take-home points. This series of articles on “Strengthening Contractor/Customer Relationships” is designed to improve your business and avoid the often common mistake of talking yourself out of a sale. Humphrey’s plain talk will help you build a solid relationship with your valued customers.