A few weeks ago, former Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz announced he was going to run in the 2020 presidential election as a centralised independent. Since then, Starbucks has provided information in our weekly 'Barista-Need-To-Know' update about how we [baristas] should respond in situations regarding questions about Mr. Schultz's announcement.
“If a customer asks how we are selling Howard's book at Starbucks?"
“No. Starbucks will not be selling copies of Shultz's new book 'From The Ground Up.' It can be found in bookstores and online."
“If a customer attempts to investigate, or share their strong political opinion, attempt to diffuse the situation."
“We respect everyone's opinion. Our goal is to create a warm and welcoming space where we can all gather as a community over great coffee."
“If asked about Howard's political intentions."
“Howard's future plans are up to him."
While there have been many articles about the situation should Schultz run for President, I wanted to give my perspective as a barista. I have a personal rule regarding politics, and that is that I DO NOT talk about anything political or regarding the government with friends, coworkers or customers.
While I respect that everyone has a right to their own opinion, I don't want to step on any toes. As cautious as that sounds, I don't want to see my coworkers as anything other than that and politics has a way of ruining those relationships. It takes a lot to offend me, but when it comes to politics, I do have strong opinions on certain things that I stand behind. Some opinions are because of personal reasons or beliefs that I don't feel comfortable or want to share. The last thing I want to have an argument with someone I work with and make things awkward and uncomfortable.
As for customers, it's not something I feel comfortable talking about. I'm all for connecting and making conversation, but it's not my place to spread information about something someone may or may not have said about such and such policy. Schultz may no longer be part of the company, but in a way, he is still seen as a figure for Starbucks.
Asking partners about Howard's choices and intentions is a topic that is likely to make your barista uncomfortable and is an awkward situation that we don't want to be in. We know as much about his plans as you do, nor is it the time or place to have a conversation that is of that caliber.
I don't mind sharing my thoughts and opinions. I really don't, however, work isn't the place to share. So please don't ask me about Schultz's candidacy, intentions or other plans for the future. It's uncomfortable, awkward, and I have no further knowledge other then what comes out on the news.
Part of my job is to create a third place where everyone feels safe, comfortable and respected. If I don't feel comfortable, I'm unable to do my job therefore I can't create that experience for other customers.