Is that even cause for a write up?? I am the absolute worst at making small talk and even have told my manager that often

Frick them honestly. I don’t believe you can actually get written up for that.

I got so mad the other day because a shift (who isn’t super talkative anyways) said to me, during an unexpected crazy 5pm rush, while I single barred on cafe and mobile orders,

“Hey you really need to talk to the customer while you’re making drinks so they feel more comfortable”

1st of all, I am the customer connection QUEEN. OK. just not during a rush with 10+ drinks!!!

I’m too focused on making the drinks quickly and correctly to give a crap about a customer. I’m sure the customer would rather me be quiet and fast then half heartedly chatter to them and mess up.

Wait what?! That’s no reason for a write up imo. Maybe I just try to be more understanding with what goes on in the stores seeing as though I worked my way up and was a barista to supervisor to now manager. Usually all it takes is a talk to let everyone know that the company is looking at customer connections and we need to improve. At my store I started posting the numbers so everyone knew where we were at and what our goal for the next week is. I also try to show how it is to have a conversation. I get it can be discouraging when you ask how someone is and they just blurt out their order but try to remember that’s one customer and not to have their actions affect how you will treat the ones behind them.

Again no reason for a write up.

We got the same threat/lecture this week too. It's a focus Nationwide. Just keep doing what you're doing with the introduction questions... If the customer doesn't answer you or just barks their order, that's on them! Not you! They are the ones lacking social skills.... Your sm will see you trying and you'll be fine! It's not required to get the customer to engage in conversation.. just the initial attempt. Also, try things like "I like your shirt" (or whatever...). Sometimes a compliment disarms them and they actually respond with a thank you before they bark their order. Sometimes, I start with the order, then say something like -ooh that's my favorite drink too (or whatever) so it's not the standard hi how are you greeting that gets ignored.

Just make sure youre saying good morning/afternoon, if yoy get a response than take it farther. Half of the customers don't want to talk and thats fine. Just do your best

That’s...not a write up though. You tried to connect with customers but they probably didn’t hear you and just went on ordering their drink. It’s not your fault reslly

Some people are saying this isn't actual policy, but it is. Starbucks uses the excuse that it's part of your job and can fire you for not doing it