Working in retail and costumer service is truly an experience like no other. It's a window into the lives and minds of others, truly. You can learn so much about the way people think and operate just by the way they behave in a retail setting. But the drive-thru, ah, the drive thru. It's a place with no rules. Nothing is out-of-bounds. It's a place where people can show their true colors.
Now, don't get me wrong. I love the drive-thru. I work the drive-thru every chance I can. But that doesn't mean it's without its flaws. Here are some things you may have experienced if you've worked the drive-thru.
1. People asking you what an item on the menu board is when you have no way of seeing what they're looking at.
"What's that item on the right? I want that."
"Ma'am, I can't see the board."
2. People who think you can't hear them as long as they're not ordering.
And proceed to use that time to fight with their significant other or yell at their children.
3. Anyone with a diesel truck.
PLEASE turn your engine off so I can take your order.
4. When people pull up about four feet from the drive-thru window and you have to practically climb out to give them their order.
You're really not gonna meet me halfway, huh?
5. When people don't think you can see them in their car, so they just come in their underwear.
Thank you, 60-year-old man in his boxers, that's exactly what I wanted to see today.
6. People bringing strange things with them in their car.
I had a guy come through with a full-sized parrot on his shoulder once.
7. When someone was really mean to you while ordering and then you have to be nice to them when they get to your window.
"Is there anything else I can do for you today?" You say, holding back your frustration.
8. When you take someone's order, write it down, read it back to them, but when they get to the window and you give it to them, they tell you it's wrong.
I checked with you three times. Either you weren't listening, or you just changed your mind about what you want.
9. When it's raining and someone leaves their windshield wipers on, resulting in you getting sprayed with water.
PLEASE. I HAVE NOWHERE TO GO.
10. People rolling up their windows, and consequently, not noticing when their order is ready.
Why couldn't you just wait? I have your order right here. Please open your window. There are five cars behind you.
Did I miss anything? Let me know!
