As a new owner of a coffee house, what expecations should I set to the current employees?

Question

I am a first time business owner with minimal experience that stems from family runned business.

Answer 1

I'd bet you that success is not so much about the coffee as it is about the way your customers are treated. If you can visualize what a happy customer expects in the way of treatment then you should express that vision to them. Since your employees (assuming) treat your customers so well its important that they show up for work when they're scheduled, the customers are looking forward to seeing them every day. You should express to your employees that you are going to treat them honestly and that you expect honesty in return, anything else won't be tolerated.

Answer 2

You have to set the standards you expect to be upheld. If you allow them to set the standards on their own, you will be unhappy with the result. Remember. YOUR name is on the paycheck and customers will be complaining at YOU if your employees mess up.

That being said, the fastest way to lose an entire staff is come in breathing fire and changing Everything all at once. There's wisdom in the "boiling a frog" story. Make changes a little at a time and the staff won't notice or rebel at the new rules.

Answer 3

Customer Service : Good Coffee, Quick Service, Clean Place, Be Polite, Easy replacement at no additional cost - All the Best

Answer 4

Customer service comes first. And since chances are that many of your employees are young, to never come to work stoned or badly hung over. You need to clearly spell out the consequences for them if they break that rule. Also, I would assume that you don't want them handing out freebies to their friends. Enjoy your new undertaking; I'm sure you have a lot to learn. Be firm, but friendly. You will find the balance.

Answer 5

Consumer awareness, personalised service and discipline.
Your employees must know what they are selling, customers should not feel at all that they are on their way and discipline as the word means.

Answer 6

Always have fun. (play) No one wants to hang out where people are miserable....at least if your miserable..be sarcastic or funny about it...so that it is entertaining...customers like to be part of the scene, that is what keeps them coming back...some people like to be recognized by the environments they surround themselves in.
And you,....don't be a slave driver.....just ask them to be there...no one likes waiting in long lines for just a lattee.....tell them to do their own call back system to confirm orders...make a joke or hum...acknowledge the customers waiting...they may stick around longer instead of run to Starbucks.