Technically the close relationship policy states that those with...power differences? (Not the word but the best I can think off omw to work) should not be hanging out off work hours. This would mean SMs and anyone under them, ASMs and anyone under them, SSVs and anyone under them.

Starbucks can transfer or terminate those "in violation" but I think the rule is bogus when it comes to friendships

i have hung out w a supervisor and got promoted and have barista friends i hang out with. our team also has a group chat and a shift invited a couple of baristas to a concert :) i dont think its a rule!

I don't think there's a hard-and-fast rule for this. Generally, yes. But you're not technically allowed to have compromising/overly close relationships with people you supervise. iirc there's something in the partner guide. It's generally used/meant for romantic relationships but it extends to close friendships and stuff.


I think quite the majority would be fine with shifts and baristas hanging out outside of work as long as they're both good, responsible workers and not causing drama. But if that supervisor shows favoritism or something I could see one or the other being nudged into transferring.

Supervisors and baristas hanging out at my store was always a huge problem, literally never heard about it being an issue anywhere else. Just because the favoritism got too horrible to ignore.

To answer this question real short, no there are no rules stating a lead and a barista can’t hang or have a plutonic relationship outside of work as long as it doesn’t become a problem at work. But an Asm or above cannot hang out with baristas or leads as that may lead to favoritism or perceived favoritism