During my A-level studies, I made a deliberate choice to pursue employment that would not only provide financial support but also offer valuable work experience. I submitted applications for a variety of positions, with a particular focus on opportunities in the retail sector.
Regrettably, my efforts were met with numerous rejections, and I frequently found myself being screened out during the application process. This outcome was unsurprising given my limited prior work experience.
However, a new franchise emerged in response to the evolving landscape of Loughborough, and an intriguing opportunity arose to assume the role of a Starbucks barista at the Cineworld franchise. Eager to seize this opportunity, I diligently completed the requisite application process and soon received an email notification that I had been selected for an interview. In anticipation of this pivotal meeting, I engaged in extensive research, immersing myself in the study of three books on Starbucks. This deep dive allowed me to gain profound insights into the company’s underlying philosophies, core values, business procedures, and the visionary concepts pioneered by its founder, Howard Schultz.
During the interview, I adeptly conveyed the wealth of knowledge I had amassed about the company. The manager overseeing the interview was visibly impressed by the depth of my understanding, and I left with a strong sense of achievement. Shortly thereafter, I received a phone call confirming the success of my interview and extending an offer for the role, an offer I eagerly accepted.
I embarked on this new role with unbridled passion, eagerly immersing myself in every facet of the business. This encompassed an in-depth exploration of its operational dynamics, the cultivation of familiarity with our corporate culture, the establishment of connections with my colleagues, and the cultivation of relationships with our diverse clientele. I was unwavering in my commitment to thorough research and swiftly acquired expertise in crafting an extensive range of beverages. This also involved memorizing the names and preferences of our customers. I consistently excelled in upselling, building strong rapport with our patrons and persuading them to indulge in our featured coffee specials.
Through this experience, I gleaned invaluable insights into the intricate workings of a business, where the significance of daily routines and meticulous systems management became evident. We upheld stringent cleanliness standards and diligently maintained all machinery to ensure optimal performance. Moreover, we navigated a multitude of operational systems crucial to the seamless functionality of the business. While I thoroughly enjoyed the continuous acquisition of knowledge, I eventually found myself yearning for more diversity and a break from the repetitive routines.