What is the training like at Starbucks?-!!?

Question

Hey I am 16 and I start my new job at starbucks on monday and was wondering what i should be prepared for and what the training is like and what you have to do. I also was curious (for those who have worked at starbucks) what is the most important skill to learn/the hardest thing to learn, and if you could give me any tips/personal experience on how and what to do to become the best Barista possible?

Answer 1

I would suggest memorizing all of the different drinks, and the correct order in which to call them.  If you've got a cup, it's basically size first, then down the modifier boxes on the side of the cup, with a few minor tweaks (for instance if a guest changes the number of espresso shots: shots first; or if a guest wants decaf: decaf, shots, size, down the list).  An example drink would be a decaf, triple venti, sugar free vanilla, soy, extra hot, no foam latte.  And yes, people do modify their drinks that much (people don't pay $5 for an espresso drink for no reason).  Some of the most annoying things I find in new-hire baristas are their lack of knowledge and laziness.  Asking lots of questions does not make you look stupid.  Making stupid mistakes because you did not ask questions does.  Make sure you are always being productive.  Ask your supervisor to explain your deployment to you.  If you are assigned the position of bar, stay on bar.  Don't walk of the bar to stock your area up; instead ask your floater to bring them to you so you can put them away.  Another thing to keep in mind is that Starbucks' success is built on excellent customer service.  Just say "yes" to any requests, always smile, and always be friendly.

Yeah, it's a lot of information, but I hope this better prepares you for the job.  Depending on where you will be working on - I'm excited for you.  If at one of the 200+ stores in Manhattan, awesome!  If you're in a smaller city with a Drive Thru store, I'm sorry.

Starbuck's is a great part time job, but never work any more than 30 hours/wk or you'll feel as your commitment and time invested in the store is incomparable to your rate of pay.