No, this is not of those funny lists... :lol:

I wanted to know if anyone can give me tips and/or advice on being a barista? I want to apply for an available position over at a Starbucks. I am hoping it's a part-time opening available because that's all I can do. I haven't even gone in to fill out my application, but does anyone have any helpful advice on being a barista? Thanks!

Well I never been a barista but I can tell you this... It helps to remember your returning customers usual drinks. I have a friend who works at a Starbucks and she somehow always remember repeated customers orders. Not only is it helpful, but people will continue to come back.

What's a barista? Like a waitress?

What's a barista? Like a waitress?
Kind of. It's an Italian word for a someone that makes coffee.

I can agree with FactoryGirl. I go to the same Starbucks every morning. The same girls and guys help me every morning. I am impressed by the fact that they know what I want and get it right every time. I always make sure to have money left over for a tip.

Kind of. It's an Italian word for a someone that makes coffee.

I can agree with FactoryGirl. I go to the same Starbucks every morning. The same girls and guys help me every morning. I am impressed by the fact that they know what I want and get it right every time. I always make sure to have money left over for a tip.

I'm also impressed how they remember everything and how helpful and friendly they are. I always make sure to leave a tip, if only fast food service was at least close to wonderful service.

Thank you for your tips, FactoryGirl and HomeInAlabama! I appreciate them!

Good luck Mona, I hope you get that job. I agree with Home and Factory Girl. Remembering the orders of returning customers along with a friendly personality really makes them feel at home. :)

a friend of mine was a barista in college and said it was a really fun job, and not as hard as it seemed. i'm sure they'll give you really good training before just setting you loose to fend for yourself, so don't stress :)

Try to perfect the ratio of ice to coffee in a Frappuccino; don't know how many times I've gotten them with cold chunks. I guess the duration of the blending also has something to do with it. It's petty but it could make a difference -- I tend not to frequent Starbucks where I've gotten "duds" (I just go to the one across the street instead, haha...).

I think the most important thing- and this goes for everyone working in the customer service industry- is to be friendly and attentive. Most customers will respond much better when they are greeted with a pleasant smile instead of an annoyed look and nasty attidtude. Also, give the customer your undivided attention while taking your order. I can't tell you how many times someone screwed up my order just because they were trying to hear about what happened at that huge party last night.

Good luck! I hope you get the job :wave: