National Etiquette Week - Day 3

COFFEE SHOP ETIQUETTE

Interview with a Coffee King

Bob Googe tells us the Do's and Don'ts of coffee shop etiquette.

1. Tell us a little about your background and personal experience in the coffee business.

I have been in the coffee business for 14 years. I started with one shop that I purchased and now own 5 stores. We have also licensed out 12 other locations. In addition we own a coffee roasting business that has customers in all 50 states. 

2. What are your top rules for customers to practice excellent coffee shop etiquette?

Top rules generally involve  electronics. Such as: please either hang up the phone or put your call on hold so you can place an order. If you are on the phone you are not ready to order and the people behind you get mad at the staff because of the wait. Also, phone calls should be taken outside. A coffee shop is a place for face to face conversation, reading and studying. For some reason almost all of us talk louder on the phone than we do in person and it is very distracting. Finally - at least when it comes to electronics - if you are playing music or a movie, or a clip, please have on headphones. No one around you wants to hear what you are hearing.

3. What is the one mistake you see people constantly make during their coffee shop visit?

See the above list and you have a great idea.

4. If you could give one piece of advice to all coffee shop goers, what would it be?

Coffee shops are designed to imitate places where people come to be together. Risk a little personal space and if the shop is crowded allow or invite someone to sit at the table with you. You never know who you might meet.

5. Is there anything we haven't covered but you would like to tell customers before their next coffee shop visit?

Please be nice to the barista and pleasant and considerate of your fellow cafe patrons.

 A Latte Tips for All Coffee Shop Lovers

1. Be patient.
2. Occupy only one seat and do not use extra seats for your belongings.
3. Use headphones.
4. Always clean up after yourself.
5. Purchase something, especially if you are there all day.
6. Do not take phone calls inside.
7. Pay attention to your barista and listen for your name. 
8. Move toward outlets so as not to leave cords in the middle of the walkway for other people to trip over.
9. Do not ask people to watch your stuff for long periods of time.