I am constantly at Starbucks. When it comes to meeting up with family and friends, or needing a study space, Starbucks has become my go-to place. After befriending some of the employees at my local Starbucks, something came to my mind. There are several articles regarding the negative aspects/ criticism surrounding Starbucks, but there aren't many about Starbucks employees and their views on their workplace. In many ways, Starbucks customers forget that the employees are real people with real opinions. With that said, I decided to play a quick game of "10 Questions" with a Starbucks employee. Here are the answers:
*For privacy reasons, the interviewees name and store location will not be revealed.
1. How long have you been working at Starbucks and what is your position?
It’ll be two years in November, and I am a Shift Supervisor.
2. What is your favorite part(s) about being a Starbucks employee?
Making friends and connections with customers, as well as my fellow employees.
3. What is your least favorite part(s) about being a Starbucks?
Being on bar during Happy Hour.
4. In the last couple of years, Starbucks has changed some of their policies, mostly focusing on employees. What do you think about the new “dress code”or “anti-dress code”, rather (being able to wear whatever you want and show tattoos/piercings)?
Well, it isn’t exactly “wear whatever you want." There is still a dress code and a limit to what we are allowed to wear. We have to stick to a certain color scheme and having a collared shirt is a major requirement. Having tattoos myself, I think it fits our image to express yourself and be who you want to be. Even people who have a more edgy style can be professional and friendly.
5. Starbucks has received some negative feedback lately when it comes to how long it takes to get your drink, and I think it's time to shut down whatever rumors are out there. Do you think this depends on which store you go to, or is it a policy to take your time to ensure the order is correct?
There are so many factors that come into play with this. Some stores may have faster baristas on bar---some are more precise and slower---some don't have a drive-thru, or have as large of a lounge area.
6. What is the craziest rumor you have heard about Starbucks as a business/being an employee at Starbucks?
That we were an Anti-Christian company.
7. Do you have any advice for someone thinking about applying to work at Starbucks?
Your multi-tasking skills have to be 10/10, and you must be a real people person.
8. Where do you see Starbucks in 20 years?
Remaining on top in the coffee industry.
9. When the “anti-Christmas red cup” drama happened during the holidays last year, customers couldn't stop talking about it. Personally, I never saw an employee’s take on it. What were your feelings/thoughts on the matter?
I pretty much treated it as I treat every media hype. I don't pay attention to it and I basically ignore it. Things like this always get blown way out of proportion. At the end of the day ,it's just a coffee shop.
10. Lastly, would you say working at Starbucks has changed you in a positive way? If so, why? If not, why not?
Oh definitely, it has really challenged me in a lot of ways, as a worker and as a leader.
