Working in fast food can be one of the most frustrating jobs as you constantly deal with one of the most frustrating things in the world: the general public. Every customer is different with their own needs, and it can get extremely overwhelming when they expect you to be able to read their minds. So here are a few thoughts that all drive thru workers want their customers to remember, so you can get a peek into our minds for a change.
1. SPEAK UP
Our speakers are pretty good at catching the sound, but not if you are whispering your order when parked too far away from the screen. Please, just speak normally and we probably can hear you.
2. You don't need to tell us the price of every item
I am aware that our sodas are a dollar, you don't need to remind me. You telling me the price of something isn't going to change the price.
3. Know what you want before you get to the speaker
Do not just sit there for five minutes while you ask your kids what they want. You hold up the entire line, and inconveniences everyone, including your fellow customers.
4. Outside noises are actually the worst
If an ambulance or a motorcycle is going by, please do not continue to rattle off your order. We know you can hear it, because everything you hear, we can more or less hear as well.
5. If you are rude, we automatically dislike you
We have to deal with so many people in a day, but it can take just one person to ruin it all for us. We can't say anything or come across as rude, so you better believe that on the inside we are giving you the look. The minute your car is away from our window, we complain about you to our co-workers to really let out our frustration. We are also really good at holding grudges, so don't think we will forget your face.
6. We are just as frustrated with the long line of cars as you are.
It is extremely stressful to see a huge line of cars in the drive thru, and we really do want you in and out as soon as possible. We are sorry for the wait, and we will try to do all we can to fix it, even though there is not much we can do.
7. We hate it when you order something at the second window.
Once you've paid for your food, please DO NOT ask for something else afterward. Now granted if it is slow, it won't be as big of a deal, but there is nothing worse than being in the middle of a rush and having the next order ready to hand out when the car at the window asks to add on an item. Do not be that person.
8. You actually need to listen to what we are saying to you
We don't just read off your order or ask questions to hear the sound of our own voice. When we tell you something, it should just be common human decency to listen to what we are saying. This prevents a lot of problems that could occur otherwise.
9.Kindness goes a long way.
When a person says a simple please and thank you, we automatically love you. I have actually told many customers that I really appreciate their kindness because we really don't get it a lot.
The next time you go to the drive thru at a fast food restaurant, please just remember this main point. The workers are humans too, and humans make mistakes. Humans have emotions. People should treat other people as they want to be treated, it's the golden rule.