Ok let's be petty. As currently a VP overseeing multiple restaurants in the area and having been in the industry for my adult life, I don't typically resort to using Yelp. It sadly has become a necessary evil in the industry and at times the only resort to vent about a miserable experience short of causing a scene. I have always taken bad reviews with a grain of salt. My recent experience at the Starbucks inside Macy's compels me to share my frustration.
I walked in to find the store empty of customers, with Amanda, the sole employee visible, working with her back to me. At first, I thought to myself, "Are they open?" I actually started to pull up the hours on my phone but then thought they have to be open and probably open early as hell since they serve coffee! I waited patiently for a couple of minutes until an Asian gentleman entered with a bucket of ice and assured me that someone would assist me soon.
I positioned myself in front of the left register, closest to where Amanda was standing, thinking I was being considerate so she could just turn around and serve me. When Amanda turned around, two other ladies had just walked in and approached the counter literally at the same time as Amanda. Instead of acknowledging my presence, Amanda addressed the first lady. I looked at Amanda and the two other customers, and Amanda rudely informed me, "The line is over here," pointing to where the other ladies were standing. One of the ladies in line kindly offered to let me go first, recognizing that I had been there before them. However, the entire situation was incredibly petty and unprofessional on Amanda's part and not the fault of the other customers. It seemed more about exerting some sense of power rather than providing good customer service.
This experience left a very bad impression. Amanda's dismissive and authoritative attitude shows a lack of customer service skills and reflects poorly on Starbucks' standards. If one of my employees behaved this way, I would certainly want to know about it to address the issue promptly. Customers might not always remember or talk about how their drink or food was, but they will certainly remember and write whiny reviews and tell everyone about a bad experience.
Me lowering myself to her level and being petty with this review proves my point. This kind of service is unacceptable, unnecessary and just stupid. I won't be returning to this Starbucks and do realize no one will really care (especially not sad little Amanda), but it does make me feel a little better writing this review. So THIS is the feeling that fuels people to write crybaby reviews on sites like this. It makes me look at review sites differently now. Remember, Amanda, the phrase "Every guest, every time" in regards to good customer service. You might have just made me a better industry professional and for that, I do thank you. But Amanda, the line for petty behavior does indeed start behind you. Ahh now I feel better.. Peep the pic. Have a blessed day, Amanda. read more