When you handle someone else’s money, be boring. Boring with money is a compliment.

Money that is not yours comes with a receipt attached, whether anyone writes one or not. Being predictable with it means nobody has to wonder, nobody has to check, and nothing has to be explained later. Invention is wonderful almost everywhere else, and it is the last thing anyone wants from the person holding the cash box.

Keep whatever record is available, even when it feels excessive for twelve dollars. Count in front of someone, write down what came in, hand over the exact amount. That reputation is slow to build and nearly impossible to buy back.