What is it like working at Starbucks as a student or recent graduate?

Starbucks is the world’s 23rd largest employer with 402,000 employees. It is a global coffee company known for its emphasis on employee welfare, training, and a distinct company culture.

Working at Starbucks, especially early in one’s career, can provide valuable experiences and insights into the retail and customer service industry. Here’s a look at what it’s like:

1. Barista Basics and Training: Most early-career employees at Starbucks start as baristas. The company offers comprehensive training, ensuring that every barista understands how to make beverages to Starbucks’ standards, operate machinery, and deliver excellent customer service.
2. Benefits and Compensation: Starbucks is known for providing a range of benefits, even to part-time employees, in many regions. This may include health insurance, stock options, and tuition assistance, among others.
3. Inclusive Company Culture: Starbucks places a significant emphasis on creating an inclusive and diverse environment. They’ve been recognized for their LGBTQ+ friendly policies, commitment to racial equality, and other diversity initiatives.
4. Employee Development: The company offers pathways for growth. Many store managers and even higher-up executives started as baristas. There are also opportunities for training, development programs, and transitioning to corporate roles.
5. Employee Discounts and Perks: Starbucks employees typically receive discounts on products, free beverages during their shifts, and a weekly coffee or tea allotment.
6. Fast-Paced Environment: Especially during rush hours, Starbucks outlets can be incredibly busy. This demands efficiency, multitasking, and the ability to work under pressure.
7. Customer Interaction: As a barista or any front-of-house role, there’s substantial interaction with customers. While this can be rewarding and foster relationship-building skills, it also means managing challenging or dissatisfied customers.
8. Team Collaboration: Working at Starbucks requires teamwork. Whether it’s ensuring the coffee is brewed on time, managing the queue, or keeping the store clean, employees need to coordinate and communicate effectively.
9. Flexibility: Shifts can vary, and weekend or evening work might be required, given the extended hours many Starbucks stores operate. This can be challenging for some but offers flexibility for others, especially students.
10. Physical Demands: The role of a barista can be physically demanding. It involves standing for long periods, moving quickly, and sometimes lifting heavy items.
11. Commitment to Social Responsibility: Starbucks has several initiatives focused on sustainability, community service, and ethical sourcing. Employees often feel a sense of pride in being part of a company that values these aspects.
12. Tuning into Trends: Starbucks frequently introduces new products, promotions, or processes. Employees need to adapt quickly to these changes, which can provide insights into market trends and business strategies.

Starting a career at Starbucks can be a stepping stone to various opportunities within the company or serve as foundational experience in customer service, teamwork, and retail operations. The company’s emphasis on training, development, and employee welfare makes it a popular choice for many early-career individuals.