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Starbucks Baristas: The daily grind

Full History - 2022 - 08 - 15 - ID#wp99dy
9
What are y'all's favorite topics for conversation when running DTR? (self.starbucksbaristas)
submitted by ChargedMedal
I'm a relatively new barista here (2 months) and I'm struggling to make conversation with folks in the drive thru, especially on Tuesdays. Sometimes, people just don't wanna chat, which I respect - but most people want to talk while they wait for their drinks. I'm not usually quite certain what to ask about, though! My typical "any fun plans for the day" often ends with them saying they're headed to work, and I feel a little bad rambling mostly about myself. Any tips on getting folks to open up?
floofxs2 7 points 11m ago
Weather always weather… I ask about drinks, if they tried something. Talk about their pet, my pet, cute dogs I saw earlier. Ask about the weekend. Suggest doing a QOTD for your store that you can use for customer connection.
bobbysangtheblues 2 points 11m ago
Oh yes the drink suggestions!! If someone gets a hot white mocha you might be like “it’s getting warm outside have your tried that iced? It’s really good” or recommend easy modifications like adding toffee nut to the white mocha etc
Flat-Whereas3075 5 points 11m ago
If I don’t remember them I say,

“So! I know we just met, BUT!”

And then I lean my right elbow on the DT lintel, and put my chin on my fist, and continue,

“What’s new with YOU?”

And if they say “nothing!”

I say, “Oh my god! Right now—No news is GOOD NEWS, right?!
Luxia_Knight 5 points 11m ago
“Anything fun going on today”
I always like to point out babies and puppies and ask the dogs names lol
I also like to compliments people cars idk why
And then weather also
It’s also fun to be random and goofy
“Soooo what’s you favorite movie?”
awkward_cat_man_ 3 points 11m ago
I just keep the window closed cos half the time I’m by myself on drive so I have to take the order of the next car.
Pitiful-Smoke-9547 2 points 11m ago
I ask the same question, "doing anything fun today?" and the routine is the same. They say they're just going to work and then i ask where they work and if they like it, if it's difficult, how long they were in school, etc. It's so easy. If you run out of that type of conversation, the drink is taking too long and you need to go check on it
TRoseee 2 points 11m ago
I try to find out what local events are going on (we just had Foodie Land, today was the first day of school, ect) and ask about those. Also anything pop culture like new movies out or shows that may be popular. It may not interest them or it could be something they totally love and they’ll begin going on and on. I love finding out a secret interest with one of my regulars because it normally forms into having an ongoing convo about that topic for trips to come.
borrowedurmumsvcard 1 points 11m ago
so glad I work in a licensed store and don’t have to do this shit
heyitsmaria24 1 points 11m ago
Nothing. I just greet them, tell them their price, and let them know their drink will be out shortly. If they need something, to let me know. If someone wants to talk to you, they will. Don’t force it customers hate that. None of us do and that’s why our customer connection is so high. The simple things matter more than being extra with it.
bobbysangtheblues 1 points 11m ago
-you going to work?
-big plans today?
-need that extra boost today? Busy day? (If they get extra shot)
-weather
-WEEKEND/FRIDAYS office workers love fridays lol

Also I bought some fun stickers that we put on the lids of cups and those are a conversation starter and brighten peoples day
BrightAngelBarista 1 points 11m ago
Good food, pets, polling for suggestions for outdoor activities e.g. hiking and biking… complimenting clothing or jewelry…
Of course not everyone wants to chat so I just respect when they want to look at their phone or be quiet.
bestowcurse 1 points 11m ago
"Got aby shoes or movies you're catching up on?"
"Any plans after work or is it chilling at home kind of night?
"Oh day off? Is it an errands day or a relaxing day?"

That's my go to other than the weather and stuff
whatsthebigdealwith_ 1 points 11m ago
"So what're you doing with your life?"
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