Working a job at a fast food restaurant may not seem like the most glorious job, but it certainly is a job that many people work part-time or full-time.

As a team member at Burger King for three years, I can say that working at the fast-food chain has taught me communication skills, how to be a better leader, and about teamwork and diversity. When I first got my job at Burger King, I was eager to begin, but I didn’t realize how much negatively fast-food workers experience daily during their shifts.

Angry customers, complaints, and misunderstandings are just a few of the negatives that people face when working in fast food. If you get a sandwich or an order wrong, or if you forget something in the bag for the order that’s currently in the drive-thru, watch out. Customers can lash out and throw insults in every direction at the workers.

From working at Burger King, I have experienced disrespect myself, and I have seen my coworkers being affected.

Being disrespectful to fast food workers in the restaurant does not show that you’re more powerful or prestigious than them, but it only enhances your negative character.

If you’ve never worked in a fast food restaurant, then you have no idea how it feels to be doing this type of job.

I’ve heard customers say comments like, “Can’t they make that right?” “It really isn’t that hard.” “Why are they rushing around?” Engaging in this belittling attitude of fast food workers is problematic in our society. Just because a certain person may view the job as being "easy" does not mean that anyone could do this type of job.

I’m tired of hearing only negatives about fast food workers, especially from customers.

We’re the ones who are making your food, and if you’ve never worked fast food, then there’s some aspects of the business that you would not understand. Be understanding this summer when you visit your favorite fast food chain. You never know what kind of day it has been, and you really do not know what some of the workers may be going through. Perhaps by being kind to the workers, instead of demeaning, you can make someone smile and make their day better.

It’s time that we stop disrespecting fast food workers.

People are out there working, and yet, others still want to be rude, impolite, and irritated. Instead, try your best to be compassionate, considerate, and collected. Remember, if something’s wrong with your order, or you did not receive the best service, most people are willing to listen, fix the problem, and help you.

After working in fast food for years, I have learned more about myself and other people than I would have otherwise. You never know what a job is able to do for you, no matter where it may be at or what your title is.