As a college student, I can't help but notice all the students roaming around campus with their lifeline, coffee. I get it, coffee has caffeine, coffee gives you that boost, coffee is just plain GOOD. I'm addicted to coffee as much as the next guy, but once I became a barista behind the counter, I realized that the job is harder than people think. You're not only learning what seems like a hundred drink recipes but you are also working an extremely social job. You learn the regular's order and how to deal with the basic white girls and their obsession with seasonal drinks. Here are a few struggles all baristas can relate to at least once during the workday:
1. Skinny lattes will not make you skinny.
Especially when you add the whip.
2. Why are you staring at me while I make your drink?
It's creepy and it's not going to make the process any faster.
3. I can't hear you when you whisper your order.
Especially with my co-worker steaming milk, grinding beans or blending a frappe.
Please speak up so you won't get frustrated when I ask you to repeat your order.
4. TIP.
Many baristas are making a little above minimum wage and are trying to put themselves through college. I promise, we want to make you the best drink of our ability.
5. I do mind heating your pastry, especially when you have a dozen people behind you in line.
Be considerate.
6. Allot the appropriate amount of time for your coffee break.
A latte takes longer than two minutes to make. Looking at your watch or phone and sighing loudly isn't going to make the process any shorter either. Once you do that I'm going to take my sweet time.
7.PUT DOWN YOUR PHONE WHEN YOU ORDER.
I understand you probably have a busy, busy life with a lot of friends and contacts and you are probably tweeting that you are at the coffee shop at this very moment, but for the love of God, It's not only rude, but we often have to repeat ourselves because you were engulfed in your phone.
8. Do not leave a mess at the creamer station.
I know your momma taught you how to put your trash away.
9. Please don't hold up the line waiting for your order.
There is a pick up counter for a reason.
10. No, I will not put my number on your cup.
Besides, your coffee order embarrasses me.
11. Sure, I'm smiling, but that doesn't mean I'm not choking you in my head.
12. If you're not at Starbucks, do not use Starbucks lingo.
We do not have tall, grande, or venti.
13. Do not reach over the counter to get something.
If you need something ASK.
14. We do charge for flavor shots
No, I'm not letting it slide this one time.
15. If you get a cappuccino, please do not complain about the foam.
You obviously have no idea what you just ordered.
If you have committed any of these offenses, it's OK. Your barista forgives you. As baristas, we are dedicated to making sure you are leaving with your triple shot vanilla latte with skim and light whip as a happy camper. Having co-workers to vent to and share outrageous stories with is one of the perks of the job. I love being a barista and I have learned some skills that will help me when I move into my career. But, it's you coffee lovers who keep us going, so thank you. Sincerely, your barista.
