For the last four years of my life, I’ve worked as a barista for a company you’ve definitely heard of. For the sake of my own employment, I won’t be sharing the name of said company, but you know the big chain coffee shop you’re thinking of? Yeah…it’s probably that one.
In my years of service, I’ve noticed a pattern among customers. These are things we baristas see every day, so I figured I’d put out a conclusive list to help you out for your next visit.
(@danymena88 / Pixabay)
1. We, too, wish coffee were more affordable
Most baristas are in the business because they love the coffee they serve. Even with employee discounts, the prices can be a bit much sometimes. It’s just as frustrating for us as it is for you when the cost of a favourite menu item is increased. Not only are we paying more, but we have to spend weeks explaining that yes, we understand you used to pay $3.10 for your nonfat macchiato, but unfortunately, you now have to pay $4.15. And no, we can’t adjust the price for you “just this once.”
2. Your order is not the craziest we’ve ever seen
Honestly, it probably isn’t even the craziest we’ve seen today. So many sweet customers seem so apologetic for ordering something as simple as a medium coffee in a large cup with extra soy, or an extra hot, no foam, no water chai. You wanna see a real complicated order? Stick around til my co-workers go on their breaks. After years of making the craziest combinations of drinks, we tend to get pretty creative with our own orders. So it’s ok! We aren’t judging you! If anything, we’re taking mental notes on what to order next.
3. Pay attention!!!
Customer: Can I get a hot latte with 3 pumps of vanilla?
Me: Absolutely! What size did you want for that?
Customer: And can I get a croissant and a chocolate chip cookie?
Me: Sure, did you want those warmed up?
Customer: Oh, and can I get a cup of water too?
Me: Yep! So, what size for each of the drinks? And did you want your food warmed up?
Customer: Debit.
I’ve had real interactions that go like this. I totally understand being groggy before you’ve had your coffee and all, but I want you to get your order exactly how you want it, which can be pretty hard to do when I’m missing half the details. Another common theme is calling out a customer’s name over and over to no response, only for them to come up to the bar 10 minutes later asking why their drink is taking so long.
Mistakes happen; it’s not the end of the world, but to make things easier for us both, I ask of you, no, I beg: please just make sure you’re paying attention to what your barista is saying.
We baristas are happy to serve you no matter what, but if you’re looking to be customer of the year, maybe keep some of these points in mind next time you’re picking up a cup of coffee. We really appreciate it!