Blue-Jay27 3 points 1y ago
Some advice:
See if you can get on stations with minimal customer service aspects, such as bar (whatever part is farther from hand off) or customer support
Personally, I rely a lot on scripts and rules. I sequence exactly as I'm told, I have prepared responses to all common customer interactions, and I always ask questions if I'm not sure which things are my responsibility. In general, people are more willing to put up with my over-specific questions than with the fuck ups that happen when I'm unsure what to do.
Some reassurance:
The team really makes the job. If your coworkers are good, especially the SSVs, you will be okay.
If you can handle the noise and textures, I've found Starbucks to be a surprising Autism-compatible job. In my training I was given scripts for customers, detailed instructions for drinks and sequencing, and I'm rarely in a situation where I have to act outside of my expectations.
If it truly sucks. Now you know. You won't have truly lost anything, and knowing what doesn't work is crucial in finding something that does.
A final thought:
I am happy to answer any and all questions. Officially, I have several autistic traits but they don't interfere with my life enough to warrant an official assessment. I have had multiple neurodivergent friends, one of whom was autistic. I like to think I'm fairly well-educated on neurodivergence and autism in particular, but you know your needs best.