27***** SSV here. I’m in the same situation. Normally, you’d have to apply online and go through a recruiter interview. That’s just to make sure you’re not a complete idiot and actually have a clue as to what you’re doing. Once you get through there, you’ll have a panel interview with two-ish DMs where they’ll ask you the same questions that the recruiter asked you, but with follow ups and extreme attention to detail and keywords. You must absolutely use Sbux lingo here and prove your complete understanding of all Sbux systems, tools, and protocols.

My DMs kept asking me for a PDP throughout this entire process. I’ve had 3 different DMs give 4 different PDPs since last October and it’s still not enough for them. I still need more practice, more proof of “team leadership” (I said “I” too much during MY interview in which they asked ME questions about what I did despite them outright praising me for my energy, passion, ability to achieve results, and by repertoire with my partners….it’s all doublespeak on steroids).

I say this because my SM informed me that Sbux is going to begin rolling out an “accelerated promotion program” soon…whatever that means….

In the meanwhile, assuming you’re not in a rural district, expect stiff competition and DMs more concerned with your ability to use corporate lingo and follow superfluous corporate protocol than anything else (meanwhile, external hires get through without ever showing a single PDP).

What is PDP?