If you love coffee and want to work in a great environment with great people. Look no further, Starbucks might be the place for you.
Getting your first job at Starbucks is usually as a barista. In this guide, we’ll go over the basics of how to do that. We’ll tell you the most common interview questions and how to answer them, so you can get the job right away.
Looking for a job at Starbucks? These position are hiring now near you:
Getting hired as a Starbucks barista can launch your career in the thriving food and beverage industry. With over 32,000 stores globally, Starbucks is an instantly recognizable name. As a barista, you’ll gain valuable skills in customer service sales, and managing operations in a fast-paced environment.
But before donning that green apron, you have to impress in your barista interview
This guide will highlight the most frequently asked Starbucks barista interview questions and model answers. Use them to nail your responses and prove you’re the ideal candidate for the job.
About the Starbucks Barista Role
As a Starbucks barista, you’ll be responsible for:
- Preparing and serving hot and cold beverages like coffee, espresso drinks, tea and refreshers
- Delivering excellent customer service at the register, drive-thru or while preparing beverages
- Keeping the store stocked, cleaned and organized throughout your shift
- Completing daily inventory and cash management tasks
- Collaborating with your team to meet sales goals and ensure top-quality operations
It’s a role that combines people skills, passion for coffee, fast pace and the ability to maintain organization amidst the hustle and bustle of Starbucks stores. Let’s look at how to demonstrate these skills and your fit at the interview.
Top 20 Starbucks Barista Interview Questions and Sample Answers
1. Why do you want to work as a barista at Starbucks?
With this open-ended question, interviewers evaluate your motivation for wanting the job. Show genuine enthusiasm for the brand and role.
Sample Answer: Starbucks’ commitment to quality coffee and incredible customer service is extremely appealing to me. I’m passionate about the craft of making specialty beverages and feel Starbucks is a perfect fit based on my skills and values. I would love to prepare excellent drinks and create welcoming experiences for customers every day.
2. What do you know about Starbucks?
Here, interviewers want to see that you understand Starbucks’ company culture, mission and values. Show them you’ve done your homework.
Sample Answer: I know that Starbucks aims “to inspire and nurture the human spirit – one person, one cup and one neighborhood at a time.” Your company places immense value on your people, coffee quality and community connection, with core values of creating warmth, overcoming challenges and showing accountability. These align well with my own personal values.
3. Why do you think customer service is important at Starbucks?
This evaluates your understanding of the importance Starbucks places on customer experience. Highlight your commitment to service excellence.
Sample Answer: Exceptional customer service is at the heart of Starbucks’ brand reputation and success. By creating meaningful, personalized interactions with every customer, Starbucks baristas help uphold that standard of quality each day. Things like learning regulars’ names and orders and making moments of connection all enhance the Starbucks experience and keep customers coming back. If hired, I would embrace Starbucks’ customer service values fully.
4. How do you handle unhappy or difficult customers?
Your poise under pressure is key here. Share an example that reflects patience, empathy and conflict resolution ability.
Sample Answer: If a customer complains about an experience, I listen thoughtfully and apologize for the situation. I then take steps to immediately make it right, such as remaking a drink to their liking or getting a shift supervisor if needed. My goal is resolving the matter respectfully to satisfy the customer. I understand representing Starbucks positively means keeping calm and solution-focused.
5. How would you create the “Starbucks Experience” for a customer?
This evaluates how well you understand the Starbucks brand experience and atmosphere. Draw on what attracts you personally to convey your answer.
Sample Answer: First and foremost, I would engage each customer with a warm, welcoming smile and sincere greeting when they arrive. Throughout their visit, I would get to know their preferences, provide helpful recommendations, and ensure their drink order is perfect. My goal is for guests to leave pleased after enjoying their time in our store’s neighborhood-like atmosphere.
6. How would you explain the difference between light, medium and dark roasts to a customer?
Coffee knowledge can set you apart here. Share some tips in your own words.
Sample Answer: I would explain that roasting coffee longer draws out more bitter flavors, while shorter roasts highlight brighter, more acidic notes. A light roast like our blonde espresso shows livelier citrus and fruit tastes. A medium roast strikes more balance between acidity and bitterness for a smooth, versatile coffee. And our dark French and Italian roasts offer fuller body and robust, intense flavor with hints of caramelization. I’m happy to offer samples so the customer can taste the range.
7. What techniques do you use to upsell products?
Demonstrate sales savvy while showing you can upsell without coming off pushy or aggressive.
Sample Answer: When taking orders, I listen closely to customers to get a feel for their preferences and find opportunities for thoughtful recommendations. For example, I might suggest a pastry that pairs nicely with their beverage choice, or recommend trying an additional espresso shot if they desire a stronger coffee taste. My focus is on enhancing their enjoyment.
8. How would you build relationships with regular customers?
Here, share your personable side and desire to provide familiar, personalized service.
Sample Answer: I try to connect with regulars by engaging in friendly conversations and making sure I know their favorites, like their go-to drink order or favorite spot to sit. I’d make sure to welcome them by name when they arrive and check in about favorites I haven’t seen them order recently. Building rapport is key so they feel happy and cared for each visit.
9. Tell me about a time you worked effectively as part of a team.
Use an example that demonstrates communication, empathy and commitment to shared goals on a team.
Sample Answer: As part of a project team in a past role, I worked collaboratively with peers to brainstorm social media content ideas and divide up tasks toward our overall goal. I showed team spirit by being responsive on our communication channels, providing input at meetings, and meeting every deadline for my assigned tasks. Our cohesive work resulted in engaging content that helped boost the company’s online following.
10. How would you handle the fast-paced environment of a Starbucks store?
This evaluates your ability to multi-task calmly and focus under pressure. Share how you’ve done this previously.
Sample Answer: I thrive in active, high-energy environments where every moment counts. For example, in a past serving job, I developed systems to work efficiently, like memorizing the menu, to handle a busy dining room. At Starbucks, I would stay centered amidst the bustle by sticking to routines, focusing on one task at a time when preparing orders, and asking for help if needed. I’m excited by the fast pace.
11. How would you keep the Starbucks space clean during your shifts?
Detail cleanliness habits that help showcase your attention to operational standards.
Sample Answer: I would take initiative to keep my work area spotless by washing equipment, wiping counters, removing trash promptly and restocking items like napkins when low. I’d also check cafe seating and restrooms periodically for any messes that need tidying up. Taking ownership of store cleanliness is something I’m committed to.
12. Why do you want to become a Starbucks barista versus a server or barista elsewhere?
Share your enthusiasm for Starbucks’ brand, culture and values specifically.
Sample Answer: More than just serving coffee, Starbucks strives to create meaningful moments of connection through quality drinks and warmth. That people-first approach resonates with me. Starbucks also leads with progressive values on issues like sustainability and employee benefits that I admire. I’m excited to represent such an innovative, purpose-driven brand making a difference globally.
13. How long do you plan to stay at Starbucks if hired?
Focus on your excitement to take on new challenges and grow within the Starbucks brand.
Sample Answer: I’m excited by the opportunity to build my career with Starbucks and see myself staying for the long-term. I’m eager to master new skills as a barista and eventually take on more responsibility in roles like shift supervisor once I’ve proven myself. Starbucks’ commitment to internal promotion and career development is part of what attracts me to the company.
14. What are your availability and scheduling needs?
Be open about times you can and can’t work. Know that total flexibility is key for a barista role.
Sample Answer: I have open availability nearly every day of the week and can work morning, afternoon, evening and weekend shifts. The only limitation I have is morning classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays. But I’m happy to work split shifts and pick up extra hours whenever possible.
15. How would you handle working with a difficult coworker?
Share your conflict resolution approach focused on open communication, empathy and addressing issues constructively.
Sample Answer: If I had an issue with a coworker, I would politely discuss it with them one-on-one first to hear their perspective and find solutions. If we couldn’t resolve it ourselves, I would bring in our manager to mediate. My goal is addressing problems
How to Prepare for a Starbucks Interview
To prepare for a Starbucks interview, you should follow the interview advice the company provides on their careers page. While they don’t provide much detail, we’ve done the legwork to distill their tips into actionable interview advice:
- Research Starbucks’ company culture. To start, learn about Starbucks’ mission: “To inspire and nurture the human spirit, one person, one cup, and one neighborhood at a time.” Next, learn about their values, which are: Creating a culture of warmth; Doing your best and holding yourself accountable; Challenging the status quo; Being present with people. Now that you know these things, what do you do? You start practicing telling stories from your past, which brings us to Starbucks’ next interview prep tip.
- Familiarize yourself with behavioral-interview based interviewing. When you ask someone a behavioral interview question, they will say something like, “Tell me about a time when…” When they look at your past work history, they try to guess how you’ll act if they hire you for the job. Do not forget to use the STAR method to organize your answers when you are asked behavioral interview questions. But what kinds of stories should you write? Well, we can guess what kinds of questions will be asked based on Starbucks’ list of values and mission statement. When have you: Greeted a customer or coworker with a smile; Went the extra mile; Owned up to a mistake; Started a new (and better) way of doing things; Connected with a stranger through respect and presence of mind? There are many more common behavioral interview questions, but you can be sure that the stories you prepare for these ones will be used.
- Visit a Starbucks store to observe the operation. This is great advice for any job you want that deals with customers or is in a store. You can learn more about life at Starbucks by seeing how things work, how fast things move, and how employees talk to each other and customers. You do not want to sound like you have never been to a Starbucks but are an outsider. On the other hand, you don’t need to act like you love coffee if you don’t. Being real is also very important to Starbucks hiring managers.
Looking for a job at Starbucks? These position are hiring now near you:
Starbucks has over 31,100 locations across 76 countries and is always looking for people to fill roles. They have openings for everything from baristas in their retail stores to leaders in their corporate offices. No matter what your skills are, there’s an opportunity that could be the perfect fit.
What makes you want to work at Starbucks? The answer will be different for each person, but here are some great opportunities and benefits you can get as a worker there:
- Great company for entry-level applicants. If you want to get your first job, Starbucks should be at the top of your list. It’s known that they hire young people who don’t have a lot of work experience and train them well. Almost anyone can land a barista job with enough preparation.
- Excellent benefits. Starbucks is also a great place to work, and they offer great benefits to their employees. You can get health insurance, a retirement plan with a company match, stock options, paid time off, parental leave, chances to go to school, and partner assistance programs as an employee. Starbucks is known for taking care of its workers, so it can be a good place to start out and eventually move up in your career.
- Tuition assistance. Starbucks employees can take online classes through Arizona State University’s program and get a bachelor’s degree with 100% of their tuition paid for by the company. They only ask that you have worked at least 240 hours (6–12 weeks, depending on your hours) and will continue to work at least 20 hours a week while they train you.
- Extra perks. Employees also get great little perks for working in-store. There are discounts on drinks and goods, and every week you can get free tea or coffee. The company also gives you extras, like subscriptions and help with your personal life. If you work at Starbucks, you’ll spend your day around your favorite drink, which is surely the best thing about the job. Their training program will teach you how to make all of their signature drinks and make you a master barista. It’s a great place for people who love their morning coffee.
15 Starbucks Interview Questions With Answers
So, you’ve decided to go ahead and apply for a job with Starbucks. First, you should take a look at their careers page and get familiar with the opportunities available.
It’s a good idea to research what the job entails and how to prep for the interview.
If you want to work at Starbucks, here are some common questions they might ask and some possible answers. But the most important thing is that you make your answers unique.
- Why do you want to work at Starbucks? Working at Starbucks will let me find ways to combine my love of coffee with my work values. Starbucks doesn’t call its workers “employees” or “staff,” but “partners.” I’d love to work for a company that encourages workers to be responsible and own their work. I also adore coffee, and I never leave the house without a morning brew. For me, one of the best things about my job is that I get to share my passion and knowledge with other people.
- Which drink do you like best at Starbucks? When the holiday menu comes out, I love the Caramel Brulee Latte. With its tasty burnt caramel flavor, it’s the perfect mix of sweet and warm. If you can’t find the holiday menu, I always order the cold brew with foam. With a touch of creamy sweetness, it brings out the rich flavors of the coffee. Please note that this question may be asked after your interviewer tells you to order a free drink and then asks you why you chose that drink. ] .
- How would you handle a customer who says their drink is wrong? I’d first ask them to describe the problem and tell me what they ordered and what they got. I would make a new one right away if the drinks got mixed up. Whether they don’t like the taste, the temperature, or something else, I would ask them how they’d like their drink to be made again and do it again.
- How would you describe customer service? For me, it means making sure the customer is happy from the moment they walk in until they finish their drink or whatever they bought. It’s important to make them happy so they come back, which could mean getting their order right the first time or getting to know the names of regulars. Anything to make their time in the store feel a little more special
- What would you tell the customer if you were out of a product or ingredient? I would tell them that we can’t make exactly what they asked for and then give them a few other options. For instance, if they asked for a blueberry scone, I would tell them that we still have vanilla bean scones or cranberry orange scones in stock. And if something went wrong with the coffee, like running out of vanilla syrup, I would offer other vanilla syrups to put in their coffee. I would give them similar choices from our menu until they found something they liked.
- What would you say about your teamwork? I love getting things done with other people. When I work in this job, I know I’d have to depend on my coworkers to take and finish orders and be a good team player. People and I have worked together before on projects and sports teams to get things done. Everyone can get their work done because I know how to take part and do my part.
- What skills do you have that make you a good fit for this job? I think I’m patient and careful. I think that having patience will help me deal with customers and coworkers in a way that makes everyone happy, even if some people are hard to work with. I also try to get things right the first time and pay close attention to the little things. This can help me make fewer mistakes and make customers happier.
- Do you think you can work well under pressure? Yes, I think I can. I can meet my goals even if I have to do a lot of things at once. I used to work at a doctor’s office and was in charge of the front desk. This meant I had to answer the phone, greet patients, get paperwork filled out, and either check patients out or make them an appointment for another time after their visit. I’m sure I can handle doing more than one thing at once and working in a place where there’s always something going on.
- How would you describe great customer service? It means making sure the customer is happy from beginning to end and that their experience is unique. It can be as easy as knowing their drink order or greeting them by name if they come in often. The point is to make them feel special.
- Where would you start when dealing with a rude customer? I would make sure not to take it personally and stay calm while I ask them what’s wrong. If I need help, I’ll talk to a coworker or manager. I’ll do everything I can to fix things on my own. Making the customer happy is important, and I should put my feelings aside if I have to deal with a customer.
- In five years, where do you see yourself? I’d like to be the shift manager at one of your locations, having worked my way up from barista. I love that Starbucks lets employees move up in the company, and I’d love to take advantage of that. During that time, I also plan to go to college and make the most of all the learning opportunities the company offers.
- Can you tell me about a time you messed up and how you fixed it? At my last job, I missed a big deadline to give my boss some paperwork. I told my boss right away that I had missed it and said I was sorry for the mistake. I got all the paperwork together right away and gave it to my boss a few hours later. I made sure to write down all of my important deadlines in a diary after that, so I wouldn’t miss another one, and I haven’t made another mistake like that since.
- Are you able to work days, nights, weekends, and holidays? Sure, I’m ready to fill in for any shifts you need. The only other thing I have planned is my Tuesday and Thursday night classes, so I couldn’t work those shifts.
- As the line got longer, what would you do as the cashier? I would first apologize to the customers for having to wait so long while I took their order. That person would start taking orders at a different register if possible. If not, they would let the customers know that we’re sorry for the wait.
- What do you do when you disagree with someone at work? If I disagree with someone, I like to talk it out. I want to see if we can work it out without help from anyone else first, but I’m ready to bring in a friend or manager if we need one. I believe it’s important for coworkers to be able to talk to each other clearly before including other people in the conversation.
STARBUCKS INTERVIEW QUESTIONS & ANSWERS! (Pass Your Starbucks Barista Interview Today!)
FAQ
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How do you ace a barista interview?
