Starbucks Baristas: The daily grind
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Tired of being treated not like a human, any advice? (self.starbucksbaristas)
submitted by MasterSherbet9694
Im a partner of over 2 years and am really feeling the effects of being dehumanized at work. i unfortunately work in a relatively wealthy part of town where people act more entitled and don’t seem to treat customer service workers as people. I also am doing ASU through Starbucks and will be graduating in the spring, so quitting rn is not an option. I try my best to connect with everyone and be positive, but it is almost always shut down or scoffed at. This isn’t even with just connecting. For example, the most common one that happens frequently is:
Me: “hi goodmorni-“
Customer: *immediately hands card without even looking at me or acknowledging*
This happens with almost every car or even customers in the cafe. I’ve begun to despise interacting with customers because of issues like this. In previous jobs I’ve had, I’ve LOVED talking to customers and hearing their stories but this job is beginning to ruin my love for people. I absolutely adore my coworkers and we are all extremely close. Not every single customer is horrible, just most, which is enough for me to feel the dehumanizing effects. I understand not everyone wants to connect, but not even acknowledging someone’s existence and being treating like this 27+ hours a week is draining. Does anyone have any advice on how to not feel so down about it? Has anyone else experienced these feelings at the bux? Am I just being a big baby? I used to laugh these customers off, but after 2+ years, idk how much more I can take.
Me: “hi goodmorni-“
Customer: *immediately hands card without even looking at me or acknowledging*
This happens with almost every car or even customers in the cafe. I’ve begun to despise interacting with customers because of issues like this. In previous jobs I’ve had, I’ve LOVED talking to customers and hearing their stories but this job is beginning to ruin my love for people. I absolutely adore my coworkers and we are all extremely close. Not every single customer is horrible, just most, which is enough for me to feel the dehumanizing effects. I understand not everyone wants to connect, but not even acknowledging someone’s existence and being treating like this 27+ hours a week is draining. Does anyone have any advice on how to not feel so down about it? Has anyone else experienced these feelings at the bux? Am I just being a big baby? I used to laugh these customers off, but after 2+ years, idk how much more I can take.
UnlockingDegree 6 points 7m ago
One thing you could try is setting boundaries with customers. If someone is rude or dismissive, it's okay to let them know that you don't appreciate being treated that way. You can do this in a polite and professional manner, such as by saying something like, "I'm here to help you, but I also deserve to be treated with respect. Can we please start over and have a more positive interaction?" This can help remind the customer that you are a person, not just a service provider.
Another thing you can do is focus on the customers who do treat you well. It's natural to remember the negative interactions more than the positive ones, but try to focus on the customers who are kind and respectful. This can help balance out the negative experiences and remind you that not everyone is rude or dismissive.
Finally, make sure to take care of yourself outside of work. It's important to have activities and hobbies that you enjoy, and to spend time with people who support and value you. This can help you maintain a positive outlook and keep your spirits up, even when dealing with difficult customers.
I hope these suggestions are helpful.
Another thing you can do is focus on the customers who do treat you well. It's natural to remember the negative interactions more than the positive ones, but try to focus on the customers who are kind and respectful. This can help balance out the negative experiences and remind you that not everyone is rude or dismissive.
Finally, make sure to take care of yourself outside of work. It's important to have activities and hobbies that you enjoy, and to spend time with people who support and value you. This can help you maintain a positive outlook and keep your spirits up, even when dealing with difficult customers.
I hope these suggestions are helpful.
MasterSherbet9694 [OP] 2 points 7m ago
Yes, they are very helpful!! Thank you so much for your advice <3 I’ll try implementing some of your ideas during my shift tomorrow
Hot-Temperature-4629 1 points 7m ago
Dude, are you trying to get them fired?
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