Some guys seem to get "wrapped around the axle" about the beacon.

Philosophically, I'm opposed to the idea that you get the checklists done, you call for pushback, and then wait several minutes before clearance to push is received. In theory that's when the beacon is supposed to be turned on.

"Personal technique" is to turn the beacon on when we call for pushback.

A major "pet peeve" of mine is leaving paying pax or non-revs at the gate when we have open seats. Won't do it (within reason; for example we're already waaay late) and am more than glad to take any "heat" for the delay.

When you're The Captain, "it's your show", so to speak.