Summer is officially in full swing which means summer jobs! A time where college and high school students are trying to rack up as much money as possible before school is back in session. The most flexible and easiest job to get is working in the fast food industry. Everyone at some point in their life has worked fast food, and I think we can all agree, that working in fast food are the best of times and the worst of times. I have a lot of experience working in fast food, so I thought I would share some common experiences when working in fast food.
1. Working the lunch rush
Is it a bird? Is it a plane? No, it's a large group of people heading to Chick-Fil-A for lunch!!!!!! AHHHHH. The lines are never ending, and there is not a moment of peace. there's always another table to be wiped, or drinks to be made or food to be brought out. Everything is hectic and stressful, but I'm getting paid so I guess I can't complain.
2. The aftermath of a rush
The time period where you do damage control and clean everything, just for it to be ruined again during the dinner rush. Everything is quiet and peaceful, and you end up keeping yourself busy until your shift ends.
3. When your manager asks you to stay later
The inevitable moment when your manager asks you to stay later than originally scheduled. Your heart sinks to the ground because what you feared actually happened. It happens a lot more than it should happen, but that doesn't stop you from staying late every time. You say "yes," because you don't think it will be that bad, but then it is. and you can't wait to go home! Hey! At least you're making money.
4. When you run out of something
"Hi, yes, I'm sorry ma'am but we've run out of ice."
"We actually don't have any more cups or bags or silverware." "So sorry for the inconvenience !"
5. The regulars
Those special customers that come in once or twice a week and order the same thing. There's a special bond between the regulars and the employees. you're on a first-name basis and you always ask about each other lives. The regular customers kind of restores my faith in humanity a little bit. I aspire to be a regular customer one day at some restaurant.
6. Working with your coworkers and managers
The only thing getting you through your shift is your wonderful coworkers. Coworkers keep you sane and make you laugh. They make working in fast food a little more tolerable.
7. The "can I talk to your manager please?" customer
*rolls eyes*
Yes, ma'am. Of course. She's just going to tell you what I told you, but go ahead.
8. Customers using expired coupons
Oh, I'm sorry sir, these coupons are expired. The customer gives me a death glare, and I give them the discount anyway. Sometimes you have to let some things go.
9. When you finally clock out
The feeling is victorious! The air smells like sweet freedom and all is right. You walk out the door and look back at the sad faces of the workers who just clocked in. you feel their sadness, but that is not you. Not until next shift...
There are so may more experiences I could write about, but that list would be way too long. If there's one thing I know, it's that working in fast food has its ups and downs. Nonetheless, I'm glad that I worked in fast food. It's taught me a lot about patience, work ethic and so much more. It also made me realize that working in fast food is kind of like selling your soul to the devil except it's not as bad. Whenever someone is venting to you about their job, remember that there are good stories, too. The bad moments are just better stories to tell.
