Joined by Dorian of The Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota, we enjoyed a chat about the work of the Bicycle Alliance over our warm coffee drinks in the relaxed atmosphere of Cahoots. Dorian promised to talk more with me about the Alliance; however, I had to spend a little time with our barista talking about coffee shop etiquette.
Here’s my coffee shop etiquette tip for this week. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Baristas are educated and trained to help you; they want you to be satisfied with your order, with the service and with the overall experience. Treated with courtesy and respect, patrons are more likely to become loyal customers, returning again and again, and telling others.
That being said, from time to time one may encounter a “snooty” barista—looking down the nose—in other words, a “snob”. Snobs can be intimidating, treating customers as if they are in the wrong place for not knowing the “coffee shop” lingo. Snobbery? Arrogance? Who wants that? That’s not good etiquette. To the coffee shop managers and baristas, if you want loyal customers, treat them with respect—be welcoming, be patient, be appreciative.
Ms. J
The Life Etiquette Expert
