I've found opening up about myself (in a proper amount) allows my customers to see me as more than just their server, but a person with a life. An injury, a passion, some fun thing I got to do recently, opens the door to them feeling like they can now trust me as a person. Followed up by a question about them, and then listening to them and their loves and passions and challenges. People like talking with people. Make friends, not customers.

As honored as one of my staff would feel being the one getting $1000+ / month, as a GM, I would love to see all my staff given some amazing treatment. Honor the hard work that is already being done, and train up everyone to that highest point possible. Sometimes showing they are valued makes a huge difference.

I’m a barista in downtown Indy at Georgia Street Grind!