Steal these ideas and make millions (of friends)

Ideas for youth workers:
--- Talk with parents about what you appreciate about their kids.
--- Always speak positively about parents.  Give them the benefit of the doubt... ESPECIALLY in front of teens.

The oddest thing (that was appropriate) to share!

--- Gripe up the food chain.  If you have a problem, don't share it with those under you, seek help from above (God and your leader).
--- Look to make contact with teens through the week.  DON'T miss their birthday!
--- Look to make contact with the leaders in ministry with you.  A five minute conversation will pay off in huge dividends.
--- It's better to be with teens than to have the program run perfectly.  What you feed a machine isn't what you'd feed a relationship.

Please share any great nuggets you've learned along the way!