Me too!

I'm a barista trainer on my fourth trainee! I think following the training guide packet is really helpful to stay on track and make sure you're training to standard, but outside of that, I think it's really important to act as their first Starbucks friend? you have to introduce them to the culture, talk about additional tips that you've learned throughout your time as a barista, be welcoming and encouraging, tell them about how benefits and tips work, what drinks are really good, and set up their expectations for the job and customer base (in a positive yet realistic way!). Paying attention to their learning style and making the training fun makes all the difference. Taking time to make samples and talk about coffee and connecting with each individual trainee is just as important as the barista basics. I also recommend taking some time to practice perfecting whip cream (I lay out a row of lids to practice whip on; tell them it should look like a Christmas tree) and realize that you can flex the schedule based on what the individual needs more time on. I've had trainees that have aced milk steaming very quickly but needed more time with cash handling, and trainees that are the opposite. It's your job to set them up for success and to be the person that knows the right way to do this job, but also realize that we're all still learning. You don't have to be perfect, you just have to be supportive and try your best. Also definitely recommend printing out complicated drinks that you see often for them to practice making (alt milk, add ons, half caf, ristretto, upside down, all the complicated things). They should make one of every drink as it comes and then a few more times with special instructions or alterations!

I'm still a new trainer. (Two baristas in). Don't go easy on them. This job is tough. Be gentle but stern in making sure they learn what they need to be successful.

Following. I just finished too and get my first trainee in a couple weeks.