Haven't done an install in 20 years, but it sounds like you guys have the right ideas. I could always finish my jobs early, then pick up extra work that the clueless guys couldn't finish. Main thing besides all that has been mentioned here is never go anywhere emptyhanded....always think ahead and be focused. I work the same way now as a sweeper....makes a big difference when you add up how much you made at the end of the day.
This is CABL.com posting #320208. Tiny Link: cabl.co/mbvsO