Honesty – Recommend the correct ball not just the one they have in stock or the one with the most profit margin. If they say they are going to order something in for you they do and it is there when promised.

Knowledge of the drilling art – Being able to determine the correct grip so the bowler can bowl with the most comfort and best ball roll. This encompasses hole size, span, pitch of the thumb, pitch of the fingers. This is most important to the first time customer but also if you start having hand problems.

Service – Providing prompt service when purchasing equipment and all the little things after the sale. Thumb hole adjustments, changing the surface of the ball, balance holes, etc. at little or no charge. Plugging done in 2 to 3 business days.  Ability to make custom thumb molds and inserts.

Knowledge of ball dynamics – What different drilling patterns mean to the shape of the hook the ball will generate.

Selection -  Have a variety of balls in stock. Having a variety of finger inserts, 31/32 drill, 7/8 drill, 1 1/32 drill. A variety of slugs and thumb inserts.

I too, recently changed thumb pitches after the guy working in the pro shop watched me throw 2 balls.  All I can say is I just shot my first 700, and many scores over 250.  This was the first time I ever seen this guy and since I have had him drill me a couple of balls.  He drills part time, bowls a lot and coaches high school kids.  So if the time comes that I am looking for another driller, I will look for someone that committed to the game.

Very good replies, but let me add one more.  Skin with a durometer hardness of 72+ and much self control so you don't choke the customer that asks for a strong skid-flip reaction and then tells all his friends you sold him a ball that he can't control!  --  JohnP