Starbucks Baristas: The daily grind
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Our SM didn’t show up to work on launch day... (self.starbucksbaristas)
submitted by paperbackedsea
I wasn’t working, but I stopped in to my store yesterday. Our SM was supposed to be there at open to set up for launch, but she didn’t even bother to show up. None of the menu boards were up, the new sandwiches hadn’t been pulled, and no one had been taught how to make the new drinks. Most of the people working didn’t even know it was a launch day. She didn’t even bother to call. I’m unbelievably pissed, I’m considering sending an email to our DM but I don’t want to get in trouble. Any advice would be appreciated.
dancing_durian 8 points 3y ago
I would be the first to call out SMs’ shenanigans but everyone knows when the launch is and what’s included based on Now Brewing and weekly updates. And typically, the night shift right before the launch would put up the new boards (I’m a closing shift and I always do it if I work the night before launch) Recipe cards are sent with every Now Brewing.
For all of their title, SMs have a very small contribution to a store. My current store has seen 3 managers since I’ve been here. And the store just keeps doing its thing and serving customers. It’s the baristas and shifts that keep the store together.
P/S: I’m not saying it’s right or excusing their behaviors. But truly, the baristas and shifts are in charge of the store. You guys will make a successful launch, with or without your SM. And if you’re mad/disappointed, prepare to feel this way a lot. Historically, many SMs schedule their vacations during promotions, launches, Happy Hours, etc.
For all of their title, SMs have a very small contribution to a store. My current store has seen 3 managers since I’ve been here. And the store just keeps doing its thing and serving customers. It’s the baristas and shifts that keep the store together.
P/S: I’m not saying it’s right or excusing their behaviors. But truly, the baristas and shifts are in charge of the store. You guys will make a successful launch, with or without your SM. And if you’re mad/disappointed, prepare to feel this way a lot. Historically, many SMs schedule their vacations during promotions, launches, Happy Hours, etc.
lilBalzac 5 points 3y ago
I would love having the time as a shift to read these things proactively. Sadly, my breaks are already used for multitasking, and I already do other work before and after punching in/out.
dancing_durian 3 points 3y ago
I guess me being nosy helps me out. And honestly I just look at the last page of the Now Brewing for the pretty pictures and if I happen to know what’s up? That’s a bonus. And I always know what the package looks like so the moment it comes, I tear at it with the voracity comparable to a puppy meeting a new sofa. Also, my 3 years at this company taught me that SMs are either ineffective at communicating or just overwhelmed with info and things escape them. So it’s up to me to make sure my baristas know EVERYTHING. And this goes for everything in life, information is an especially valuable resource and the more you have it, the better position you’ll find yourself in.
lilBalzac 1 points 3y ago
I don’t know how some people have time for three long breaks, phone games, reading on the computer... my shifts are never staffed to allow that for me. Most days I do not even eat, drink, or urinate during my shift and I must decide between multiple things that must be done, and skip things that should not be neglected.
dancing_durian 2 points 3y ago
I’m right there with you. I don’t get breaks either as a closing shift. And it’s wonderful that you care to create a good environment for your store. But like you said, you don’t get anything extra for it. So just make sure things happen on your shifts are smooth and everyone’s happy, then that’s that. I actually had a breakdown last week and decided to mute all things work related and I will not check it until I clock in. (Very tempted to delete Work Chat altogether) I did my best during my shifts with what was given and then I go home every night knowing exactly what I did and what I skipped (and I won’t apologize for it)
lilBalzac 1 points 3y ago
I know where to get the info, and reading it is my job. However many other things are my job too, and I already give them free work. Nothing like getting grief if you DO work off the clock AND if you don’t. It is heartbreaking when you care more than your bosses about sales, guests, and partner well-being.
USplendid 1 points 3y ago
It sounds like you’ve had the unfortunate luck of having terrible SMs.
While ours does rely heavily on SSVs, she absolutely spearheads product launches and training. As well as works the floor and constantly keeps the store pointed in the right direction.
While ours does rely heavily on SSVs, she absolutely spearheads product launches and training. As well as works the floor and constantly keeps the store pointed in the right direction.
NOTcreative- 3 points 3y ago
Email your DM that’s what they’re there for. They might have gotten sick and called out or maybe it was a no call no show. You won’t get in trouble if you do, we have no retaliation policy and training. If you do get in trouble or experience any sort of retaliation you call ethics and compliance.
colonade17 1 points 3y ago
The SM can delegate someone else to do the flip for the launch, but that needs to be communicated to someone. I would reach out to the SM first to see if there's a legit excuse, if not then your DM should know about this.
USplendid 1 points 3y ago
That’s messed up. Our SM is on maturity leave and still managed to shoot all the SSVs a message letting us know that another SM would be swinging by and where to find the recipe cards on the store’s iPads.
[deleted] 1 points 3y ago
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