I think I understand.. I'm sort of the same way. I have friends are car guys, but aren't fully into detailing who trip out at how much I've learned or how thorough a complete detail can get compared to an average Joe wash. [not trying to say I'm somekind of bigshot, just saying to an average Joe it's way beyond what they would or could do to clean a car/polish paint]
I attribute that to seeking out and being fortunate enough to have met and learned from some of the best people in the detailing world. The friendships I truly consider a blessing, but learning and implementing the proper techniques and etiquette, along with using quality products are things that I push myself to practice at higher standard than some of the mobile detailers who I've seen washing cars in parking lots where I've worked normL jobs at.
I take alot of pride in having learned the proper and safe way to handle someone's vehicle. Some of those mobile detailers I've seen and talked to may be making their money right now, but they cut alot of corners and don't really seem to care sometimes.
The things I've learned from talking to them and watching them in action helps motivate me because I know I can deliver better quality. Btw, I make friends and chat with them if they happen to be out there on my lunchbreak, but I don't disclose how much into detailing I actually am. I remember the 1st time I asked him what products he uses to polish cars and he said they're Meguiars.. But I wanted to know what specifically. He sort of rolled his eyes and said "oh they're more known by numbers instead of names" [totally understandable for him to roll his eyes, can you imagine trying to explain that to someone who doesn't know about pro products lol] But I said it's ok, just tell me. He said "ok it's called M90, M66, M85" and so on... I was very surprised at how outdated his products and process were.. I said "so you use a rotary everytime"? He said yea, then he looked surprised that I knew that from what he just told me. Lol. Remember, I act like I don't really know much, yet all I chat about is detailing stuff. Lol.
Its good motivation to know I can deliver at a higher level when it comes time for me to fully jump in the game. Good money is good, but I feel better knowing I deliver the kind quality to deserve it. I feel like I'm on the right path.
