25 Starbucks Barista Interview Questions and Answers

Starbucks is a household name, and with more than 27,000 stores in 77 countries, it’s safe to say that a Starbucks barista is a common fixture in most people’s lives. If you’re looking for a job in the customer service industry, a Starbucks barista interview may be in your future.

The questions you’ll be asked in a Starbucks barista interview will vary depending on the position you’re applying for, but most will focus on your customer service skills. You may also be asked about your coffee knowledge, your experience with making coffee drinks, and your availability.

To help you prepare for your interview, we’ve put together a list of common Starbucks barista interview questions and answers.

1. Are you a morning person?

This question is a way for the interviewer to assess your work ethic. They want to know if you are willing to start early and stay late, as many Starbucks locations have long hours of operation. Your answer should show that you’re committed to working hard and getting the job done.

Example: “Yes, I am a morning person. I have always enjoyed the early hours of the day and find that it helps me to be more productive throughout my day. As a Starbucks Barista, I understand the importance of being able to start my shift with energy and enthusiasm, which is why I thrive in the mornings. I’m also an organized individual who likes to plan ahead for the day so that I can provide excellent customer service. I believe this makes me well-suited for the job as I will be able to anticipate customers’ needs and ensure they receive the best experience possible.”

2. What are your favorite drinks to make and why?

This question can help the interviewer get to know you a little better and see what your interests are. It also helps them determine if you have experience making their company’s signature drinks. When answering this question, try to include some of the most popular drinks that Starbucks offers along with one or two specialty drinks.

Example: “My favorite drinks to make are Starbucks Frappuccinos and Lattes. I love making these drinks because they require a lot of skill and attention to detail, which is something that I take great pride in. With Frappuccinos, I get to be creative with the flavors and toppings, while also ensuring that it looks aesthetically pleasing. With lattes, I enjoy the challenge of creating beautiful latte art designs. Both drinks require me to use my knowledge of espresso shots and milk steaming techniques, which I have been honing for years.”

3. How do you handle it when a customer is unhappy with their drink?

This question can help interviewers understand how you handle conflict and whether or not you have the ability to diffuse it. When answering this question, try to focus on your problem-solving skills and highlight how you use them to make customers happy.

Example: “When a customer is unhappy with their drink, I always strive to make sure they leave the store satisfied. First and foremost, I listen carefully to what the customer has to say so that I can understand why they are not happy with their drink. Then, I take action to rectify the situation by offering them a replacement or refund if necessary.

I also try to be proactive in preventing this situation from occurring in the first place. For example, I double-check orders before handing drinks over to customers to ensure accuracy. This helps me catch any mistakes early on and avoid potential issues down the line. Finally, I always remain friendly and professional throughout the process, as I believe it’s important to maintain a positive relationship with customers.”

4. What is your experience with making espresso-based drinks?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to assess your experience with making espresso-based drinks and how you can apply that knowledge in this role. Use examples from previous work experiences or include information about any training you’ve received on making espresso-based drinks.

Example: “I have over two years of experience as a Starbucks Barista, so I am very familiar with making espresso-based drinks. During my time at Starbucks, I was trained on the proper techniques for creating espresso-based beverages and I quickly became an expert in this area. I take great pride in ensuring that each drink is crafted to perfection and I always strive to provide customers with the highest quality beverage possible.

In addition to having extensive knowledge of how to craft espresso-based drinks, I also understand the importance of speed and efficiency when it comes to serving customers. I know how to work quickly while still paying attention to detail and I’m confident that I can handle any rush hour orders without sacrificing quality.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you had to be creative in order to resolve a customer issue.

This question can help the interviewer determine how you approach challenges and solve problems. Use examples from your previous experience to highlight your creativity, problem-solving skills and ability to adapt to unique situations.

Example: “I recently had a customer who was unsatisfied with the drink they ordered. They wanted something more creative than what was on the menu. I took it upon myself to come up with an idea that would satisfy them and still be within Starbucks guidelines.

I started by asking the customer what kind of flavors they liked, then I used my knowledge of our ingredients to create something unique for them. I combined some of their favorite flavors into one drink, which ended up being a delicious combination of espresso, caramel, and coconut milk. The customer was thrilled with the result and thanked me for going above and beyond to make sure they were satisfied.

This experience showed me how important it is to think outside the box when dealing with customers. It also taught me the importance of listening to customers and understanding their needs in order to provide the best service possible.”

6. If a customer orders a venti caramel macchiato, what would you do if they asked for it “extra hot”?

This question is a great way to test your knowledge of the Starbucks menu and how you would handle customer requests. When answering this question, it can be helpful to refer to the official Starbucks menu for reference.

Example: “If a customer orders a venti caramel macchiato and asks for it “extra hot”, I would take the time to explain that Starbucks does not offer an extra hot option. However, I could make sure that the drink is served as hot as possible while still maintaining the integrity of the flavor profile. To do this, I would use fresh espresso shots and steamed milk that has been heated to the optimal temperature. I would also ensure that the cup is pre-heated before pouring in the ingredients so that the drink stays warm longer. Finally, I would top off the drink with some extra foam to help insulate the beverage and keep it hotter for longer.”

7. What would you do if a customer asked you a question about one of our drinks and you weren’t sure of the answer?

This question is a great way to determine how you would handle an uncomfortable situation. Interviewers ask this question to see if you have the confidence and knowledge to answer any questions that customers may have about our drinks or menu items. In your answer, be honest about what you would do in this situation and explain why you feel confident enough to answer customer questions even when you don’t know the answer.

Example: “If a customer asked me a question about one of Starbucks’ drinks and I wasn’t sure of the answer, I would take the initiative to find out. First, I would ask the customer if they could provide more details on what they were looking for so that I can better understand their needs. Then, I would do my best to research the drink in question by consulting with other baristas or referring to our menu guide. If I still couldn’t find an answer, I would let the customer know that I am not 100% sure but offer to get back to them once I have found the answer. Finally, I would make sure to follow up with the customer as soon as possible and provide them with the correct information.”

8. How well do you handle stress while working?

Working as a barista can be stressful at times. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the ability to handle stress and remain calm while working. In your answer, share how you manage stress in general and how it affects your work performance.

Example: “I have a great ability to handle stress while working. I understand that being a barista can be demanding, especially during peak hours and when the store is busy. To help me stay calm under pressure, I use positive self-talk and take deep breaths. This helps me remain focused on the task at hand and ensures that I’m providing excellent customer service.

In addition, I always make sure to plan ahead and prioritize tasks so that I don’t become overwhelmed. I also like to break down big projects into smaller chunks which makes them more manageable. Finally, I try to maintain an upbeat attitude and keep my sense of humor in order to lighten the mood and create a pleasant atmosphere for customers and coworkers alike.”

9. Do you have any experience working with inventory management systems?

This question can help the interviewer determine your experience with inventory management systems and how you might use them at Starbucks. If you have experience using an inventory management system, share what kind of software or database it was and how you used it to benefit your previous employer. If you don’t have any experience working with inventory management systems, you can explain that you’re willing to learn new systems if necessary.

Example: “Yes, I do have experience working with inventory management systems. During my time as a Starbucks Barista, I was responsible for managing the store’s inventory and ensuring that all products were in stock. I used an inventory management system to track the items that needed to be restocked, as well as their quantity and cost. I also monitored sales data to determine which items should be ordered more frequently. This allowed me to ensure that our store always had enough of the most popular items on hand. My experience with inventory management systems has enabled me to become proficient in accurately tracking and ordering supplies.”

10. When preparing a drink for a customer, what do you do if you notice that the milk or syrup levels are low?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you handle customer service situations. Your answer should show that you are willing to go above and beyond for customers, even if it’s not your job to do so.

Example: “If I notice that the milk or syrup levels are low when preparing a drink for a customer, my first priority is to ensure that the customer still receives their order in a timely manner. To do this, I will quickly check the stock and restock if necessary. If there is no time to restock, I will explain the situation to the customer and offer them an alternative option. For example, if we’re out of soy milk, I might suggest almond milk instead. Finally, I will make sure to inform my manager so they can take steps to restock as soon as possible.”

11. We want to ensure that our customers receive the freshest drinks possible. How would you encourage customers to either take their drink “to go” or wait for a fresh batch?

This question can help the interviewer assess your customer service skills and ability to make recommendations. In your answer, try to show that you value quality over quantity and are willing to educate customers about how they can get the freshest drinks possible.

Example: “I understand the importance of providing customers with the freshest drinks possible. I would encourage customers to take their drink “to go” or wait for a fresh batch by informing them about the quality of our ingredients and beverages. I would explain that we use only the finest, freshly ground coffee beans, which are roasted daily in small batches to ensure maximum flavor and freshness. I would also emphasize that all of our syrups and sauces are made from scratch every day so they can enjoy the best-tasting drinks. Finally, I would let them know that if they choose to wait for a fresh batch, it will be worth the wait because they’ll get an even better tasting beverage.”

12. Describe your experience working with POS systems.

POS systems are a common feature in many retail environments, including Starbucks. This question allows the interviewer to assess your experience with technology and how you might use it to benefit their business. In your answer, describe any previous experience working with POS systems and highlight any specific skills or knowledge that may be relevant to this role.

Example: “I have extensive experience working with POS systems. I worked as a Starbucks Barista for the past two years and was responsible for operating the POS system on a daily basis. During that time, I became very familiar with how to use it efficiently and accurately. I am comfortable navigating through menus, entering orders, taking payments, and providing customers with their receipts. I also understand the importance of accuracy when using the POS system, so I always double-check my work before submitting an order. In addition, I am knowledgeable about troubleshooting basic issues related to the system, such as printer jams or incorrect payment amounts.”

13. What makes Starbucks stand out from other coffee chains?

This question is an opportunity to show your knowledge of the company and its unique selling points. You can highlight a few things that make Starbucks stand out from other coffee shops, such as their commitment to ethically sourcing beans or their rewards program.

Example: “Starbucks stands out from other coffee chains in many ways. First, Starbucks has a wide variety of drinks and food items that can be customized to each customer’s preference. This allows customers to create the perfect drink or snack for their unique tastes. Second, Starbucks offers a great atmosphere with comfortable seating and free Wi-Fi. Finally, Starbucks is committed to providing excellent customer service. As a barista, I am passionate about creating an enjoyable experience for every customer who visits our store. My goal is always to ensure that each person leaves feeling satisfied and happy with their purchase.”

14. Which Starbucks drinks have you made the most? Which ones do you wish you could make more of?

This question can help the interviewer get a sense of your experience level and how you feel about making certain drinks. It can also give them insight into what kind of barista you are, as well as which skills you have developed over time. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention some of the more challenging drinks that you’ve made in the past and how you overcame any challenges with them.

Example: “I have made a variety of drinks at Starbucks, but the most common ones I make are cappuccinos, lattes, and macchiatos. I am very familiar with all the recipes for these drinks and can make them quickly and efficiently. I also enjoy making specialty drinks like frappuccinos or mochas as they give me an opportunity to be creative.

The drinks I wish I could make more of are cold brews and tea-based beverages. Cold brews require a bit more time and attention to detail than other drinks, so it’s been difficult to perfect my technique in this area. As for tea-based beverages, I’m still learning about different types of teas and how to properly steep them. With more practice, I’m confident that I will become proficient in both areas.”

15. What do you think is the most important skill for a Starbucks barista to have?

This question is your opportunity to show the interviewer that you have the skills and abilities needed for this role. You can answer by naming a skill, explaining what it means and giving an example of how you use it in your work.

Example: “I believe the most important skill for a Starbucks barista to have is excellent customer service. As a barista, I understand that customers come first and it’s my job to ensure they receive an exceptional experience each time they visit our store. This means being friendly, helpful, and attentive to their needs. It also means having great product knowledge so that I can answer any questions they may have about our menu items. Finally, I think it’s important to be able to work quickly and efficiently while still maintaining accuracy in order to keep lines moving and customers satisfied.”

16. How often do you think a barista should clean their station and equipment?

This question can help the interviewer determine how much attention to detail you have and whether your cleaning habits are similar to those of other baristas at their company. Your answer should show that you understand the importance of keeping a clean workstation and equipment, but also that you know when it’s appropriate to do so.

Example: “As a barista, I believe it is important to keep my station and equipment clean at all times. Cleanliness not only helps maintain the quality of drinks served but also ensures that customers have a pleasant experience in the store. Therefore, I think it is important to clean my station and equipment after every shift or as needed throughout the day. This includes wiping down surfaces, cleaning any spills, and sanitizing coffee makers and other equipment. Doing so will help ensure that customers receive their beverages quickly and safely.”

17. There is a long line of customers waiting, but you’re not sure about the ingredients for the drink order in front of you. What do you do?

This question is designed to test your problem-solving skills and ability to stay calm under pressure. Your answer should show that you can prioritize tasks, think quickly and communicate clearly with customers.

Example: “When I am faced with a situation like this, my first priority is to ensure that the customer feels heard and respected. I would start by apologizing for the wait time and explain that I need to double check the ingredients of their order. Then, I would ask them if they could provide me with more information about what they ordered or if there were any special requests. This way, I can make sure that I get the drink right the first time.

If the customer does not have additional information, I would take the initiative to look up the recipe in our store’s database. I understand the importance of accuracy when it comes to drinks, so I always strive to be as thorough as possible. Furthermore, I would also keep an eye on the line and apologize to other customers who are waiting while I take care of the order. Finally, I would thank the customer for their patience and let them know that I appreciate their understanding.”

18. Describe a time when you had to work quickly under pressure and how well did you handle it?

This question is a great way to assess your ability to work under pressure and how you handle it. When answering this question, make sure to highlight your skills of working quickly while maintaining quality.

Example: “I have a lot of experience working quickly under pressure as a Starbucks Barista. One time, I was working in a very busy store and we had an influx of customers all at once. Everyone was ordering complicated drinks and there were long lines. I knew that it was important to keep everyone happy and get their orders out quickly, so I stayed focused and worked efficiently.

I handled the situation well by staying organized and prioritizing customer orders. I made sure to take each order one at a time and double-check that everything was correct before moving on to the next order. I also communicated with my co-workers to ensure that our workflow ran smoothly. In the end, I was able to serve all of our customers in a timely manner and they left satisfied.”

19. What do you think is the most difficult part of being a barista?

This question is an opportunity to show your interviewer that you understand the challenges of working in a customer service role. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention something specific about barista work and how you overcame or managed the challenge.

Example: “The most difficult part of being a barista is when customers are upset with their order. I always try my best to make sure every drink is made exactly as ordered, but sometimes there are mistakes. In these situations, I apologize and offer them a discount on their next visit. This usually helps calm the situation.”

Example: “I believe the most difficult part of being a barista is providing excellent customer service while maintaining efficiency. It can be challenging to ensure that each customer’s order is made correctly and in a timely manner, while also making sure they feel welcomed and appreciated. To overcome this challenge, I make sure to stay organized and plan ahead when taking orders. By doing so, I am able to provide customers with their drinks quickly and accurately. I also take time to engage with customers by asking them how their day is going or offering suggestions for new drinks. This helps create an enjoyable experience for both myself and the customer.”

20. Are there any Starbucks drinks that you have never made before, but would like to learn how to make?

This question can help the interviewer determine your willingness to learn new things and expand your skills. It also shows that you are passionate about coffee and eager to improve your craft. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a drink that is similar to one you have made before so you can demonstrate your ability to make it.

Example: “Absolutely! I am always eager to learn new things and expand my knowledge of Starbucks drinks. One drink that I have not yet made, but would love to learn how to make is the Nitro Cold Brew. I think it would be a great challenge for me as a barista to master this complex beverage. Not only does it require precise measurements, but also requires skill in pouring techniques. I believe that with practice and guidance from an experienced barista, I could become an expert at making this delicious cold brew.”

21. Describe a time when you had to deal with an angry customer and how did you resolve the situation?

An interviewer may ask this question to assess your customer service skills. They want to know how you would react in a challenging situation and whether or not you have the ability to diffuse it. In your answer, try to show that you can remain calm under pressure and resolve conflict with customers.

Example: “I had a situation where an angry customer came in and was very upset. They were frustrated because they felt like their order wasn’t right, so I took the time to listen to them and understand what their issue was. After understanding the problem, I apologized for the inconvenience and offered to remake the drink with fresh ingredients.

I also offered a complimentary beverage of their choice as a gesture of good will. The customer accepted my offer and thanked me for being understanding and accommodating. This experience taught me that it’s important to take the time to listen to customers and try to resolve any issues they may have. It’s also important to be patient and courteous when dealing with difficult situations.”

22. How familiar are you with different coffee brewing methods?

Baristas need to know how to brew coffee in a variety of ways, including espresso and pour-over. Your answer should show that you have experience with these methods and can explain the differences between them.

Example: “I am very familiar with different coffee brewing methods. I have been a Starbucks Barista for the past three years and during that time, I have become well-versed in all of the various brewing techniques used at Starbucks. I am comfortable using both manual and automated espresso machines to make lattes, cappuccinos, macchiatos, and more. In addition, I am knowledgeable about pour over, French press, and cold brew methods. I enjoy experimenting with different recipes and creating unique drinks for customers. My experience has taught me how important it is to use the right amount of grounds, water temperature, and extraction time when making coffee. I understand the importance of consistency and accuracy when crafting each cup of coffee.”

23. Explain your experience working in a team environment.

Working in a team environment is an important part of working at Starbucks. The company has a unique culture that emphasizes teamwork and collaboration, so the interviewer will want to know how you’ve worked with others in the past. Give examples from your experience where you were able to work well as part of a team.

Example: “I have extensive experience working in a team environment. During my time as a Starbucks Barista, I was part of a team that worked together to ensure the highest level of customer service and satisfaction. We were all responsible for different tasks such as taking orders, preparing drinks, and cleaning up after customers. This allowed us to work efficiently and effectively while still providing excellent customer service.

We also had regular meetings where we discussed our progress and any issues that needed to be addressed. Through these meetings, I learned how to collaborate with others and come up with creative solutions to problems. I also developed strong communication skills, which helped me build relationships with both my coworkers and customers.”

24. When dealing with orders for multiple customers at once, what strategies do you use to ensure accuracy?

This question can help interviewers assess your multitasking skills and ability to prioritize tasks. Your answer should include a specific example of how you handled multiple orders at once, along with the steps you took to ensure accuracy in your work.

Example: “When dealing with orders for multiple customers at once, I use a few strategies to ensure accuracy. First, I always double-check the order before making it. This helps me make sure that all of the details are correct and that nothing has been missed. Second, I try to keep track of each customer’s order by writing down their name and what they ordered. This way, I can easily refer back to my notes if there is any confusion or questions about an order. Finally, I always ask the customer to repeat their order back to me so that I know they have heard and understand exactly what they want. By using these strategies, I am able to provide accurate orders quickly and efficiently while still providing excellent customer service.”

25. Do you have any tips or tricks for managing long lines of customers?

As a barista, you may be responsible for managing long lines of customers. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the skills and experience needed to keep your customers happy while also keeping their line moving. In your answer, share two or three tips that helped you manage a large group of customers in the past.

Example: “Yes, I do have tips and tricks for managing long lines of customers. The most important one is to stay organized and focused on the task at hand. It’s easy to get overwhelmed when there are a lot of people in line, but it’s important to remain calm and collected so that you can serve each customer efficiently.

I also recommend having an efficient system in place to ensure that orders are taken quickly and accurately. This could include having multiple registers open or assigning different tasks to different baristas. Having a plan in place will help keep the line moving and reduce wait times.

Additionally, I believe it’s important to provide excellent customer service even during busy times. A friendly attitude and a willingness to go above and beyond can make all the difference in keeping customers happy while they wait. Finally, I think it’s important to be flexible and willing to adjust your plans if needed. If something isn’t working, don’t be afraid to try something new!”