Starbucks Baristas: The daily grind
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I filed a complaint against my manager. (self.starbucksbaristas)
submitted by ItzBoogieMan
I’m going to keep this short. My availability shows I’m available to work 9AM to 6:30PM. I’ve worked at this location for 7 months now, not once have I been scheduled outside that time frame. I am scheduled to work 7:30AM to 4PM next week. It takes me 1 hour to get to downtown where I work via transit.
I have a health condition which requires me to sleep a lot because I barely have any energy. 7:30 Is far too early for me and I brought it up with my manager, she tells me it allows her to schedule me so I have to work it/get it covered or she will write it as a NO SHOW. I show her proof it’s outside of my availability.
She brushes it off and says the same thing again.
The second is issue is our store, there’s so many fleas flying around, that they fall in my drinks and I have to remake them. 4 different times. We’ve brought up the issue, we’ve tried insecticides but we kill 1 and 10 more show up. Yet she still neglects to hire a exterminator and blames it on the recycling bins.
So I filed a complaint against her for neglecting to reschedule me and accommodate me for my disability as well as neglecting to take any serious action against the flea problem that we have brought up multiple times.
Edit 1: I mean fruit flys*
I have a health condition which requires me to sleep a lot because I barely have any energy. 7:30 Is far too early for me and I brought it up with my manager, she tells me it allows her to schedule me so I have to work it/get it covered or she will write it as a NO SHOW. I show her proof it’s outside of my availability.
She brushes it off and says the same thing again.
The second is issue is our store, there’s so many fleas flying around, that they fall in my drinks and I have to remake them. 4 different times. We’ve brought up the issue, we’ve tried insecticides but we kill 1 and 10 more show up. Yet she still neglects to hire a exterminator and blames it on the recycling bins.
So I filed a complaint against her for neglecting to reschedule me and accommodate me for my disability as well as neglecting to take any serious action against the flea problem that we have brought up multiple times.
Edit 1: I mean fruit flys*
vulgar_witch 52 points 1y ago
Did you provide a doctor's note for your condition? Otherwise she can brush off that excuse, as fucked up as that is. However I'm puzzled it let her schedule you those hours. That part is very sus.
ItzBoogieMan [OP] 26 points 1y ago
I’ve told her before that I have a disability but I haven’t given her any form of physical evidence. I did give my previous store manager a doctors note but that store had closed down and she works at a different location now. I don’t know if they note it down in a system or anything.
As for her ability to schedule me, she sends me a picture of my name being scheduled on her laptop and uses the ideology that if it lets her schedule, it’s fine.
As for her ability to schedule me, she sends me a picture of my name being scheduled on her laptop and uses the ideology that if it lets her schedule, it’s fine.
vulgar_witch 26 points 1y ago
Yeah I definitely would get another note or find out from higher ups if it's in a system, or both. I told my sm about my disability but unless i have a note he won't do anything about it because that's the rules.
Her scheduling you outside your availability is wrong for sure though. If you provide that doctors note and she still brushes it off, you could get her fired :)
Her scheduling you outside your availability is wrong for sure though. If you provide that doctors note and she still brushes it off, you could get her fired :)
ItzBoogieMan [OP] 18 points 1y ago
Her scheduling me outside my availability is where the problem stems from. I put those availability hours for a reason because that is what fits with my sleep schedule and availability.
If she didn’t schedule me outside those hours, I wouldn’t have to bring up the doctors note at all though right?
And what about the fleas, I’m getting really sick and tired of us selling beans with flea shit and drinks with blended and drowned fleas. I’m not the only one who has complained, a supervisor has complained too and she still neglects to do anything about it. Doesn’t this open up a door for a massive Health and Safety violation as well as a lawsuit?
Also, thanks for your advice :)
If she didn’t schedule me outside those hours, I wouldn’t have to bring up the doctors note at all though right?
And what about the fleas, I’m getting really sick and tired of us selling beans with flea shit and drinks with blended and drowned fleas. I’m not the only one who has complained, a supervisor has complained too and she still neglects to do anything about it. Doesn’t this open up a door for a massive Health and Safety violation as well as a lawsuit?
Also, thanks for your advice :)
vulgar_witch 13 points 1y ago
The flea issue is huge too! The whole store could get shut down for it! I was just more focused on defending your health condition, as one barista with a condition to another.
havensward 2 points 1y ago
I'm not sure where (regionally I mean) you work, but when I was hired in the US, part of onboarding was identifying disabilities, with the option to identify mental health. If you identified a disability then, they are required to accommodate you under the Americans with Disabilities Act. If you showed a note to your previous SM, that should have been recorded on their end as well, because as I said, they're REQUIRED to accommodate you. Otherwise it's discrimination and you could literally sue them on that alone.
Unaddressed fruit flies, especially en mass, is a QASA violation I believe, and if they're not addressing that who knows what other exterminations they're not bothering with. Also, blaming the recycling is sus. Why would that garner fruit flies? They look for sugar...
Good luck. From experience, internal investigations can be rocky. Just remember your manager cannot retaliate against you for reporting them. I'm fairly certain that's an international policy, and their job would be on the line for doing so.
Unaddressed fruit flies, especially en mass, is a QASA violation I believe, and if they're not addressing that who knows what other exterminations they're not bothering with. Also, blaming the recycling is sus. Why would that garner fruit flies? They look for sugar...
Good luck. From experience, internal investigations can be rocky. Just remember your manager cannot retaliate against you for reporting them. I'm fairly certain that's an international policy, and their job would be on the line for doing so.
depressoroast 4 points 1y ago
SM here. Sorry you’re having such a shitty experience. You need to file for an accommodation. That way, it’s legally documented and she has to follow it or face termination. Once you get that from your doctor, email it to your SM and their DM. Then call the PRSC. Don’t do anything verbal, leave a paper trail.
As for the flea problem—report that to the PRSC as well. Document for unsafe work environment for you and your customers.
As for the flea problem—report that to the PRSC as well. Document for unsafe work environment for you and your customers.
ItzBoogieMan [OP] 5 points 1y ago
I have contacted the Legal and Ethics line and filed a complaint for both my schedule and the fruit flys. Although the docs note is a good idea, I just don’t see why I would need it considering the availability I gave is the one that works with my sleep schedule. So she’s trying to force her mistake down my throat. Thank you for the feedback!🙏
depressoroast 1 points 1y ago
You shouldn’t need the note period, correct. But I would just reiterate if this SM is choosing to ignore an availability form, I would protect yourself and your health at all costs. This way you can say to them “for my health I absolutely cannot work earlier than 9am” and have it documented. It shouldn’t require this drastic work but I’d do it to protect yourself. I’ve called in accommodations for my team over little things like having to take frequent bathroom breaks due to medications. That way you’re just protected against any retaliation
Chemical-Less 30 points 1y ago
If she tries to mark you down for a no show for not coming in outside of your availability then I think it can be considered retaliation, especially if youve shown her proof (which she should know considering she's the one who writes your schedule...) I recommend getting a doctor's note as proof of your disability tho
ItzBoogieMan [OP] 6 points 1y ago
I don’t think I’ll need the doctors note at all because those availability hours I put are what work with me. If she scheduled outside it THATS her fault and she’s trying to force it down my throat. She doesn’t need to know about my disability, that’s my privacy.
As for the note, I might need it as a last resort but it only needs to prove that I have the disability right?
As for the note, I might need it as a last resort but it only needs to prove that I have the disability right?
vulgar_witch 12 points 1y ago
>As for the note, I might need it as a last resort but it only needs to prove that I have the disability right?
It's to prove you have one and allows you to be provided accomodations based around the note.
It's to prove you have one and allows you to be provided accomodations based around the note.
ItzBoogieMan [OP] 4 points 1y ago
Thank you! <3
sunflowercupcakee 8 points 1y ago
Unfortunately and I am 100% against this practice, but I was told my availability is not guaranteed and business needs take precedent. I had to transfer stores because I was told to change my availability because it didnt work for the store and that didn't work for me as I would be late picking up my children.
ItzBoogieMan [OP] 9 points 1y ago
I was actually thinking of proposing a transfer to a store much closer to my house, that would allow me to have a more flexible schedule too.
As far as business needs, they can kiss my ass, I’m not going to kill myself for a job that’ll replace me in a week.
As far as business needs, they can kiss my ass, I’m not going to kill myself for a job that’ll replace me in a week.
sunflowercupcakee 8 points 1y ago
Exactly. Your mental health is more important. I was like wtf am I supposed to do let a six year old get themself off the bus and be alone for an hour?
maddogracer161 3 points 1y ago
Sometimes it'll be a single day. I've seen it happen. My sm right now is proposing a partner get separated so she already has someone on call for transfer when they get fired... 😣
Chemical-Less 5 points 1y ago
You've got a fair point there, I completely agree that it's your business and it's frankly kinda heinous how dismissive she's being about it, but I only say so as a just in case sort of thing. However, as you said, your privacy is your own.
ItzBoogieMan [OP] 6 points 1y ago
Just in case is a good idea. Thanks a lot for the support
rudebii 24 points 1y ago
Those probably aren’t fleas, they’re fruit flies and that needs to be addressed ASAP. Everything in the store can potentially be contaminated as those things get everywhere and anywhere, like syrup pumps, pour spouts, cups, and lids for example.
If the SM is refusing to correct, you should escalate that, as it’s also putting partner health at risk.
If the SM is refusing to correct, you should escalate that, as it’s also putting partner health at risk.
ItzBoogieMan [OP] 8 points 1y ago
Holy shit your right! What can I do if she purposely ignoring it. Can I call the health inspector myself? Or go to her superior
rudebii 11 points 1y ago
Personally, I wouldn't go to the DM, you have no idea if the SM has mentioned it to them and they nixed calling an exterminator.
Step one is document. If you can remember any details regarding the issue, eg, time, date, other people present that heard it, texts obvi, jot them all down as best you can. this is to defend yourself against retaliation.
I would take all those details and call partner resources hotline (I don't remember what it's called, it came after my time. Back in my day we only had "mission" cards). Do not mention anything else, eg, your scheduling issue. Don't make it personal, just report the fact dispassionately and frame the issue from the company's perspective. "I'm concerned for the health of our guests and partners at the store, as well as missing the mark in making an inviting Third Place (TM)" for example.
BTW, the above advice applies to ANY time you need to go outside your chain of command. The DM and SM are often working closely, and you're more expendable and cheaper to replace, so if you become "a problem" or aren't a "team player," you'll be squeezed out, not the SM. If you use emotions, passion, charged or accusatory language, you'll be discredited.
Finally, Partner Resources is there to minimize the liability for Starbucks, they are not impartial arbiters. They also aren't your advocate. Their purpose is to make sure starbucks doesn't end up being sued by partners, or if they are, to lessen the amount paid out. If you want their help, help them, or at least make clear the liability to starbucks, not the impact its having on you, your health, your wellbeing, your schedule, etc. because none of that matters to Starbucks unless it costs them.
The health inspector route can work too, but depending on the agency one anonymous tip about fruit flies at a starbucks might not push the needle much.
Step one is document. If you can remember any details regarding the issue, eg, time, date, other people present that heard it, texts obvi, jot them all down as best you can. this is to defend yourself against retaliation.
I would take all those details and call partner resources hotline (I don't remember what it's called, it came after my time. Back in my day we only had "mission" cards). Do not mention anything else, eg, your scheduling issue. Don't make it personal, just report the fact dispassionately and frame the issue from the company's perspective. "I'm concerned for the health of our guests and partners at the store, as well as missing the mark in making an inviting Third Place (TM)" for example.
BTW, the above advice applies to ANY time you need to go outside your chain of command. The DM and SM are often working closely, and you're more expendable and cheaper to replace, so if you become "a problem" or aren't a "team player," you'll be squeezed out, not the SM. If you use emotions, passion, charged or accusatory language, you'll be discredited.
Finally, Partner Resources is there to minimize the liability for Starbucks, they are not impartial arbiters. They also aren't your advocate. Their purpose is to make sure starbucks doesn't end up being sued by partners, or if they are, to lessen the amount paid out. If you want their help, help them, or at least make clear the liability to starbucks, not the impact its having on you, your health, your wellbeing, your schedule, etc. because none of that matters to Starbucks unless it costs them.
The health inspector route can work too, but depending on the agency one anonymous tip about fruit flies at a starbucks might not push the needle much.
ItzBoogieMan [OP] 5 points 1y ago
Thank you, thats a huge problem amongst big corporations. They would rather fire someone and keep someone under covers than to take any action against it.
serialsquisher 10 points 1y ago
i hope your manager gets super fired and the store gets shut down. reading about the fleas literally made me itch. wishing you the best
ItzBoogieMan [OP] 1 points 1y ago
Thank you 🙏
mmpotpie78 9 points 1y ago
Please contact SEDGWICK and get a medical accommodation. It is NOT your supervisors business to know any part of your medical condition. This will allow you to have whatever schedule you need based on your medical needs. PCC will have the number to SEDGWICK or you can access the Partner Hub. This goes for both physical + mental health needs. Don’t give the doctors note to your supervisor, it is not their business. They aren’t allowed to schedule outside of your availability (unless you give them explicit permission to do so).
Your SM is retaliating and that is illegal. Don’t let them manipulate you!!
Your SM is retaliating and that is illegal. Don’t let them manipulate you!!
ItzBoogieMan [OP] 1 points 1y ago
I really don’t need SEDGWICK because if she schedules me inside my availability then I’m fine. Outside is where it becomes a problem and I really don’t want to drag in other parties. I just want to work my available hours.
I told her recently that I reciprocate what I receive and she being hostile to me just flipped the switch “two can play that game”. Thanks for the support.
I told her recently that I reciprocate what I receive and she being hostile to me just flipped the switch “two can play that game”. Thanks for the support.
mmpotpie78 1 points 1y ago
I understand what you’re saying, however, if your medical condition were to interfere with your schedule for whatever reason, SEDGWICK & the accommodation you set up with them (eventually after a full year and a certain amount of hours worked you can utilize FMLA) will cover you. It’s always important to “CYA” (cover your ***), and to do that and maintain anonymity for your medical condition you would need this third party (your supervisor can’t and won’t do anything for you, meeting hostility with hostility is a waste of time, it’s probably time to transfer stores at this point).
Whenever you’re ready or feel like it, I highly recommend contacting them and speaking with a representative. They will be happy to help you. I hope you’re able to find a solution that works best for you. Good luck to you!
Whenever you’re ready or feel like it, I highly recommend contacting them and speaking with a representative. They will be happy to help you. I hope you’re able to find a solution that works best for you. Good luck to you!
vkapadia 3 points 1y ago
KILL ONE FLY AND TEN MORE SHALL TAKE IT'S PLACE
HAIL FLYDRA!
HAIL FLYDRA!
shinymutt 2 points 1y ago
Fleas...? Tf
mama_bibi 1 points 1y ago
Fleas don't fly
ItzBoogieMan [OP] 1 points 1y ago
Fruit flys*
mama_bibi 1 points 1y ago
Oh ok. Yea my store has them too. It's ridiculous. I was real confused for a second. Im over here like how in the heck did they get fleas
ItzBoogieMan [OP] 1 points 1y ago
I’ve had to remake drinks because of fruit flys falling in my drinks. Mmmmm blended fruit fly
Gucci0313 1 points 1y ago
Sorry your having such a tough time with scheduling.
As far as the insects, are the drains cleaned daily?
As far as the insects, are the drains cleaned daily?
ItzBoogieMan [OP] 1 points 1y ago
Yup, our store was due for a renovation in 2019 but they’ve been delaying it because CoViD. Which is really stupid considering we have to work but health hazards are brushed off
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