As a Starbucks Barista, here are 10 things we wish we could tell you to your face (but probably shouldn't).
1. We don’t care if we spell your name correctly, we care if your drink is made right.
It is not important to us if your drink looks "Instagram-worthy." There are so many ways to spell each name, we can't possibly get it right every time. What's important is that we make the drink you ordered the way you ordered it. If it's a life or death matter that your name is spelled correctly, tell us how to spell it.
2. If your drink was made wrong, tell us.
It’s our job to make sure it’s made correctly. So if it's not, say something. Don't get mad and walk away. We're more than happy to keep making it till you're satisfied.
3. We’re not your punching bag. Be nice to us.
We're humans, too. We have feelings, just like you. We all have bad days, but you don't need to take it out on us. Please be kind.
4. Don’t watch us add something to your drink, and then tell us you didn’t want it. Say something.
It's really annoying for someone to watch us put whipped cream on their drink, and then tell us they didn't want it. You'll get your drink a whole lot faster if you tell us before hand.
5. If you stand in line for a long period of time, know what you want when it becomes your turn.
You've had plenty of time to decide what you want to order. So don't hold the line up any longer than need be and be ready when it's your turn
6. Just cause we have to stand there and talk to you, doesn’t give you the okay to flirt with us.
It's okay to compliment us, but it's not okay to make us feel uncomfortable or hang around for an unwanted and unnecessary about of time. Chances are, we're either taken, or not interested.
7. Listen for your name—we have a no babysitting rule.
Listen for your when your name and drink are called. We will only call your name three times, and then we set it aside and don't worry about it. So pay attention.
8. We do have a life outside of Starbucks.
Our life does not revolve around Starbucks. We have hobbies and interests and friends besides our coworkers. So if you run into us outside of Starbucks, talk with us about anything but Starbucks.
9. Don’t be afraid to ask for suggestions or help.
Try new things! Ask for help on deciding or suggestions. We're knowledgeable about our products and love having you try our favorite drinks.
10. Be patient.
We have a lot of customers and we’re working to the best of our ability to get your drink to you as fast as we can. So give us time and stay calm. Also, don't come five minutes before a class or meeting, and get angry that your drink isn't made in two seconds, and now you're late.
Next time you go to Starbucks, keep these things in mind, and we'll both enjoy the experience a whole lot more.
