How to Get a Job at Starbucks
How Long Does it Take Starbucks to Hire?
While the exact length of the Starbucks hiring process varies depending on store location and the applicant's desired position, it takes most successful job seekers less than a week to submit their work form, receive a callback and attend an interview. Some prospects even make it through the entire process in as little as two or three days.
Most aspiring employees prefer to fill out and submit their job applications on the company website. However, some Starbucks locations hold open-house hiring events and company-sponsored job fairs to recruit new workers. Those who deliver paper copies of their resumes and applications in person may be able to get through the hiring process more quickly than those who submit their forms online.
What Should I Expect at a Starbucks Interview?
After Starbucks hiring managers review all the applications and resumes they receive and select the best candidates, successful job seekers can expect the company to reach out via email or over the phone to set up an interview. Hopefuls who apply to work as baristas may experience a different interview process than those who've applied to be shift managers.
In Person Interviews
A face-to-face meeting with a store manager is the second step of the Starbucks hiring process. Candidates meet with the interviewer in-store and answer questions about their work history, job-related skills and personality traits that could benefit the company. Typically, these casual yet professional conversations take between 15 minutes and an hour.
Multiple Face to Face Interviews
Hopefuls looking for a management position must attend an in-person meeting with a Starbucks hiring manager as well. However, while entry-level hopefuls can expect a single meeting with a single manager, an aspiring manager usually sits through multiple interviews. After an initial screening with a panel of store supervisors, these job seekers attend a one-on-one meeting with a district manager.
Background Check
If their Starbucks interview is successful, prospects may have to submit to a drug test and background check before they are officially eligible for hire. Once they pass both screenings, aspiring baristas and managers can receive their start date and begin working as Starbucks employees.
What Do they Ask at Starbucks Interviews?
While the exact Starbucks interview questions vary across different stores, hiring personnel typically asks questions about:
- Your strengths and weaknesses
- Your expectations of the Starbucks work environment
- How well you work as part of a team
- Your ability to work in fast-paced settings
- Any experience you have in customer service, working with cash registers, preparing foods and making coffee and other beverages
Some Starbucks barista interview questions often touch on career aspirations. For example, hiring managers might ask:
- “Do you see yourself working with Starbucks in five years?”
- "How will this position help you long-term?"
What does Starbucks Look for When Hiring?
As one of the most popular international coffeehouse chains in the world, Starbucks prefers to hire well-rounded job seekers who can help maintain the company's positive reputation. To make a good impression on hiring managers, candidates should display interpersonal traits such as:
Teamwork and Communication Skills
Starbucks managers strive to create close-knit work environments where employees can feel comfortable and enjoy their shifts. Making drinks and taking orders in a fast-paced setting can be difficult, so being able to work well with others is an essential part of maintaining a calm and efficient atmosphere.
Strong Customer Service Skills
Workers should also demonstrate a friendly disposition and a genuine passion for helping others. Managers encourage employees to establish a rapport with regular customers to help them feel cheerful and relaxed. Showing that you are willing to go above and beyond to provide excellent service is a great way to impress Starbucks hiring personnel.
How Do I Prepare for a Starbucks Interview?
According to the Starbucks interview tips on the company’s website, applicants should visit their local Starbucks café to observe daily operations. Seeing how the baristas and managers perform their duties before you apply is a smart way to gauge whether you would be a good fit for the job.
Reviewing information like the company mission statement and community involvement initiatives can also prepare you for your Starbucks interview. Familiarizing yourself with the brand and asking a few questions about future endeavors can show hiring managers that you are enthusiastic about gaining employment with Starbucks.
What to Wear to a Starbucks Interview
A Starbucks interview outfit should include comfortable yet professional clothing. Formal and fashionable options like dress slacks, knee-length skirts and wrinkle-free, button-down tops are ideal for Starbucks interviews. Well-groomed applicants that exude confidence make a great impression on Starbucks hiring managers.
Starbucks Interview Video
Video Transcript
Interviewer: Please describe your job title and primary duties?
Starbucks Employee: I was a crew member. I worked on the weekends because I was in school at the time. I mainly went in when people called off work and they needed someone. At the time I was 16, turning 17, so I was in school full-time. So I would go in and do tables, take orders, cashier, clean up after people, just the regular crew member kind of stuff.
Interviewer: What was the work environment like?
Starbucks Employee: It was fast paced. It was busy. Where I worked was kind of like Belden, it was like a bigger city. There were a lot of people coming in. I never worked in the mornings, so I didn’t get the morning “go to work” rush. It wasn’t as bad. It was mainly between 4 to around 6. So, it was slow-paced sometimes, but sometimes you get people right after school that go to Starbucks to hang out and stuff like that.
Interviewer: What was your favorite part about working there?
Starbucks Employee: The people. They were nice people. You get to see different people every day and just getting to know people and seeing different personalities of the people coming in.
Interviewer: Please describe a typical day.
Starbucks Employee: Typical day, you check in, start your job. Sometimes you have downtime, sometimes you don’t. But when you do have downtime, you have to find things to do to make the process faster to get everything done. Sometimes, even though I only closed twice, that was probably the worst thing ever. You have to count for everything; count your register, make sure all your money is set, make sure everything is good to go. Then you take the trash out to the dumpster. I remember one time I was being rushed and actually forgot to take the garbage out. I took it out, but I didn’t take it out to the dumpster. So I got in trouble for that. Besides that, it wasn’t that bad, actually.
Interviewer: How would you describe the application and interview process?
Starbucks Employee: Application, you put your regular name, date, age, social security number, previous employers, availability, signature, and consent for all that stuff. Then, it asks for references. And the actual interview was regular interview style. You come in, talk to the hiring manager. “Why do you want to work here?”, “What time are you available?”, “Where have you worked before?”, “Can I call previous managers?”, “What goals and skills do you have that can better your experience here?”, “What skills do you have that can improve the work area?”, “What can you offer?”, “Why should we take you in?”, “Why should we employ you?”, just basic stuff like that.
Interviewer: What should an applicant wear to the interview?
Starbucks Employee: I definitely wouldn’t wear something like a dress suit for a business meeting or something, but then also jeans are not acceptable to me. Something in between like a casual formal kind of thing, not too dressy but also not too simple, like you were going to school or something.
Interviewer: What questions did the interviewer ask during the interview?
Starbucks Employee: They did throw some random questions in there. I feel like those questions were for personality reasons. Even if you applied to Starbucks online, they make you take this personality test afterwards, and some of the questions I didn’t like because they were repetitive. They would ask you: “What’s your personality like?”, “Are you a nice person?” They give scenarios, like: “If you’ve had a bad day, how do you react? Do you take it out on other workers, or do you continue your day as normal?” Or, “If you see another worker who is down or sad, do you go up to them, ask them what’s wrong, and see if you can help, or do you just continue about your business?” Another question would be: “A worker is slacking, do you pick up the work for them, do you report them to the manager, or do you just go on like you didn’t see anything happen?” and stuff like that. But the actual face-to-face interview, they would ask questions about family, how school is going, just things that aren’t related to the job but related to you, so they can get a better idea of who you are and stuff like that.
Interviewer: What set you apart from other candidates?
Starbucks Employee: The time that I was available and that I was willing to work when others weren’t. So, somebody would call off or had a sudden emergency. I had nothing to do, so I would take the position for them and fill in for that day.
Interviewer: What other advice would you give someone looking for employment?
Starbucks Employee: Just to be open, be honest when you go to the interview. What I did was I called every day. Not every day but once a week – let them know that sure, I’m still interested in the job. Because the more interest you show, the more likely you are getting the job. Like, if you just call once and say, “Hey, I’m still interested,” but then never call again, they think that maybe you lost interest and you don’t want the job anymore. So, I would call once a week and ask to speak to the hiring manager. If they aren’t there, ask when they are available, and if they don’t pick up or don’t say when they are available, keep calling until you can actually get in contact with the hiring manager and speak and tell them how interested you are with the job and your availability and when you’re open. Just always tell them when you are available because that’s the main thing they’re looking for. If it doesn’t fit their schedule, then they’re not going to give you the job.
More Starbucks Interview Videos:
Brandi Patterson says:
How much will I be paid?
coffeydude says:
I think Starbucks wages vary by location, but you can be sure these jobs are hard to get because of the competition. Study hard and learn as much as you can about the company for your interview and get to know the local Starbucks crew before you go. Make sure you are on time and always be personable. That is I think one of the most import tips. Also dress well. Don’t show up in sloppy clothes. Good luck
samantha says:
do they accept 15 1/2 yrs old cause i’m a teen mother and needed a job?
John says:
No, 16 only for legal reasons.
samantha says:
how much will i get paid?
is it hard?
wat will they asked me in a interview?
how should i dress?
do they care if u dnt have good grades?
do u need to have a high GPA?
can you get hire easily?
Jasmin says:
i want to know how can i easily get a high chance on being employed at Starbucks
Arianna says:
what kind of questions will they ask me?
Jake says:
They are gonna ask you questions about your life, how good you are at school and all kinds of stuff that might help them to analyze how well you would do if they hire you…
aliiii says:
How old do you have to be to work there?
Kaylah Williams says:
Probably 16 years old.
bre says:
do they drug test??
Anon says:
Age for hiring depends on state. And drug testing probably depends on the store, they reserve the right to drug test, that’s just what comes with at-will employment. I’ve had one interview with Starbucks and didn’t land it, but the questions were pretty generic. Why are you right for the job/ Example of when you’ve provided excellent customer service/ Example of multi-tasking very efficiently/ Do you work well in a group – they want to get a feel for your confidence, your skill, and that you have some idea of the company. Be prepared to have a bunch of inspiring stories about when you’ve had to work really hard and been successful, and they may ask if you’ve had any instances where you didn’t do very well despite trying really hard.
Seulbee says:
Hi, what are the typical questions they ask for the interview.
I have no job experiences, will they still hire me?
cece says:
the starbucks location that i was just at, the employees there were very friendly … and not the fake friendly just be yourself smile and be yourself dont be afriad to try and make friends !!
deletom says:
Should I wear jeans, nice shoes and tucked-in collard shirt?
Or substitute jeans for khakis?
Ashley says:
What do i wear? and what are they looking for? what stands out more, experience or character?
Sam says:
I had an interview with Starbucks last week, and it seemed to go pretty well. It’s a week later, and I’ve heard nothing. In the past if I didn’t get hired for a job, I’d at least get a rejection letter in the mail…but I’ve gotten nothing. Should I just assume that I’m not getting the job at this point?
taco salad says:
how hard is it to make the different drinks they make there? Do spills occur often?
Von says:
I worked at Starbucks for a year and it just takes time and practice to make the different drinks but for the most part the recipes are the same just with different flavors. Spills happen but if you’re careful they won’t occur often.
Berny says:
I’m going to turn in my application and reading these comments are making me nervous and making me think twice about turning it in. should i still turn it in?
is it hard to get the job?
do they pay well?
what should i worry about the most?
do i need goo experiences?
do they hire based on your experiences or grades?
can someone please summarize, answer my questions briefly in a small paragraph, i will strongly appreciate it.
KJ says:
Well if you don’t turn in an application, you’re guaranteed not to get the job.
It is hard to get hired at Starbucks, because anyone with previous Starbucks experience is preferred, however not impossible. I think the main qualities they look for is personality, interest in coffee, intellignece & high standards. They want happy customers, which means friendly & competent baristas. The interview question I struggle with most is “give an example of how you provided excellent customer service in your last position.” This is easy if your last job is in customer service, otherwise, you may need to think about it a bit beforehand.
If you REALLY want to work at Starbucks, and are having trouble getting hired, do what I did: apply at a franchise store. For example, Starbucks locations in grocery stores (Safeway), Book stores (Barnes & Noble) & Airports (HMS Host) are not actual Starbucks employees, they are employed by the store they are located in, and therefore easier to get a job there because you don’t get the benefits of being a Starbucks employee. Once you have training at a franchise store in Starbucks beverages, you are much more desirable at a regular Starbucks.
marta says:
what should someone wear or how should they dress
marta says:
what do they ask in the interview?
marta says:
how much will i get paid?
can you get hire easily?
Dena says:
How should you dress to a starbucks interview?
What kinda questions will they most likely ask?
What can I do to up my chances of getting hired?
B says:
I went to an interview for Starbucks last week. The questions were kind of difficult…you really have to dig deep for a good answer on the spot. I felt like i interviewed very well and they seemed to like me, but they had their poker faces on so it’s hard to say for sure. I had 2 people interview me because they wanted to put the first and second interview together due to time crunches or something. They said they would call me in a week…its day 7 and still haven’t gotten a call. I’m a little worried!
Mariah says:
Will they accept you if you are 15 with a workers permit??? please respponde soon!!
Rosita says:
I will be 17 in December 17.
I am a student at West Aurora High School, I have great grades (all a’s) would that help in a interview ?
what should i expect at an interview ?
how much is the current pay at starbucks ?
lewinskii says:
What should i wear to my interview ?
Deneal says:
Rosita-
Happy early birthday!
Having excellent grades is great to tell your interviewer because it demonstrates your a hard worker and you’re serious about getting a job done, even if it’s a bit challenging.
I’m sure the minimum age is 16 years old but I might be wrong.
You should expect them to ask questions about your life, school, future goals, why you’re right for the opening position, what makes you different from the others that are applying for the same job, and they might possibly ask you what you know about the company(so it would benefit you if you did a little research about the company before the interview that way you are knowlegable in what you getting yourself into.)
The current pay for starbuck’s could vary but since you are an entry level applicant then you’ll most likely be given minimal wage ($7.25 an hour.)
I hope this helps you.
Lewinskii-
if you’re a girl-
Wear something business like but simple but not too simple. I know that sounds a bit confusing so I’ll break it down for you. Technically what I’m saying is dress business casual. Which means don’t wear jeans, wear something a bit more sophisticated such as a simple black skirt or black pant’s (not black denim skinny jeans.) You’re hair should be groomed in a professional way and not hanging down or covering your face. Try to put it up in a bun,braid, or even a sleek pony tail, but be sure not to make it sloppy. As for make-up try NOT to go hardcore with it. Add some foundation, eyeliner, lipstick, and you’re good to go. Try to make your make up seem natural and same with your hair color. As for a shirt to wear try a button up or a collared shirt that silhouettes and compliments your figure, do not make it so that it looks too small or tight. Earings, a simple necklace, and a ring are common to be worn and fingernails should be appropiate in length. You’ll be working with customer’s food/beverages and so you’ll be evaluated in your hygene. After all first impressions speak the loudest when it’s your first time meeting someone. Oh ! And brush your teeth and smile and be confident in your self.
Okay so we got the girl’s appearance over with now it’s the gentleman’s turn…
Alrighty then, First of all, cut your hair if you have long hair and if you don’t want to cut it alot just trim it down to wear it’s less sloppy. Shave!!! I know i’m not the only one that DOES NOT want any man’s chin hair’s or any type of body hair for that matter to be on my food or in my drink. It’s disgusting. So groom yourself and wash your face to look fresh and awake. No one wants to interview a slob who looks/acts like they don’t care. When picking out what to wear try to wear black slacks or khaki pant’s with some black or dark brown dress shoes (not tennis shoes,running shoes,skateboarding shoes- Wear appropriate shoes) accented with a button down that compliments your skin tone and clothing ensemble. For example if you have a dark tan, naturally green, a light yellow, or even white accents you perfectly well. If you have a light tan then green works just as well (green is very diverse and looks great on anyone) and a navy blue color works just as well. Wearing a simple white shirt underneath is okay. Make sure you trim your nails as well, no one likes to see that you’ve got dirt underneath when they see you handle their food. You’ll be amazed at how many people pay strictly attention to those kind of things. Tweeze your eyebrows too and smile alot to let them know you’re friendly and a people person. Okay as for the guys that wear or should wear make-up; My only advice in that catagory is to just go with a simple foundation that matches your skin tone to hide any blemishes on your face, remember foundation doesn’t not hide redness it only decreases the appearences of blemishes. Okay so far we covered shoes, pants, what kind of shirt to wear&what color, hair/facial hair, and i think we’re just about done. Oh! if you wear jewlery a simple watch, one ring will do you good.
I know you must be tired of all of this that I have written down but it’s been known that people who take care of their apperence have a greater chance than a person who comes to an interview with sandles/slippers in torn jeans or too high shirts, with oversized shirts that just make the wearer ridiculous. It let’s to interviewer know you mean business and is serious about getting the wanted position. Remeber to be confident and openly friendly and smile alot.
Although there could be more to prepare you for the interview (but I’m getting tired of typing right now and my noggin is going blank,lol) I hope what I have provided you helps you tremendously.
-Deneal
Ella says:
I worked at starbucks, I knew someone that worked there which im sure helped.
one of the MAIN things n starbucks is service, their catchline is ‘Legendary service to keep customers coming back.’ So, you need to appear personable and someone that will chat easly while being efficient, eg, if there is a line you can recongnize the regulars and be friendly while moving on quickly to insure speed of service. try and communicate that your a quick learner, its very much ‘on the job learning’ so you must learn allot fast but when you have got it its not that hard!
I wore smart black skinny jeans, flat brown boots and a smart top for my inver view, it was my first job outa school and compared to my friends pay was quite good. You may also be asked to do a OJE, On job experience… you go in for 2 or 3 hours and they see you work and you see what its like… WORK YOUR BUTT OFF!!! Always look to help and if unsure ask what to do.
One question to think about is ‘How would you make service for customers amazing’ or something like that, sure that came up in mine….. maybe say about remembering regulars making an effort to remember what they like, ect
Victoria says:
Deneal and Ella,
Thank you two so much. I’m applying for my first real job and because of your advice i feel well prepared and hopefully i have a better shot at getting the job! 🙂
Thanks again,
-Victoria
Jane says:
Actually I just got a job at a Starbucks in the airport(HMSHost) and I was told the benefits are the same as the rest of them. The only difference is the pastries.
Tracey says:
Hi,
I work at starbucks and for an interview you should go in dressed professionally. First impressions are very important and if you are walking in wearing even a nice pair of jeans and a nice t-shirt you may not be taken seriously. I recommend wearing black pants, a modest/tasteful shirt, and dressier shoes (boots, flats or anything that is not dirty, or too casual). Make sure that even though you are dressing maybe a bit more professional than you usually do, you should still show your personality through your clothing. Don’t be afraid to look trendy or stylish, as long as you don’t have cleavage hanging out or look like your going out to a club! Also, keep in mind that if you work at starbucks there is a dress code that you must adhere to, so dressing the part for the interview can help your chances of being seen as a potential partner.
Also, If you want to work there you should be prepared to have pretty good availability. You should also stress in your intervview that you are good with customer service, and talk about making customers feel a sense of belonging. If people feel like they are wanted somewhere they will return. Customer interaction is HUGE!
You will have to go through two interviews before you are hired at starbucks. In both interviews they will ask you behavioral questions. They will give you a situation and ask you how you would react or handle the situation. Or they will ask how you have actually dealt with things in your previous jobs etc. The people I was interviewed by were awesome! They made me feel really comfortable and I was able to answer openly and honestly without feeling that sense of pressure that I have felt in other interviews in the past.
BE PREPARED TO ASK A FEW QUESTIONS!!! You could ask why they like working there. Ask about the partner programs, ask when you would be able to start. Ask if they are looking to fill part time or full time positions… etc. Look and be prepared!
Just be yourself. Try to show who you really are, and be friendly, smile a lot, and be polite. Good luck everyone.
Elise says:
Question-wise: They ask you questions like “tell me about a time…” because they want to use your life experiences to find out how you react in different situations. But if your interviewer is nice, those questions aren’t too bad…and they give you a chance to think and respond. One big thing – SMILE A LOT. I’m pretty sure that was the reason I was hired (my manager told me), so smiling is a fantastic idea. Don’t act too uncomfortable. Be prepared to answer “why do you want to work here” and “what makes this place special to you” questions. I was lucky because I totally love going to Starbucks and I love the environment there, so I was genuinely enthusiastic about that question. But if you’re just lookin’ a job, not this one in particular, come up with a cheesy-but-believeable answer.
Age-wise: I’m pretty sure you have to be 16…I was 17 when I was hired and there wasn’t an issue there, and another guy was hired right after me who was 16. So I think it’s 16+
Dressing-wise: I wore a button-down collared black shirt and grey pinstripe pants with black flats and that seemed to work out for me. It’s nothing super fancy where high heels and skirts are needed, because Starbucks is a relaxed and comfortable environment. But looking professional is good – I wouldn’t recommend showing up in jeans and a tee.
Other stuff:
-You don’t need any job experience…I’ve never had a job before and I was hired immediately.
-Dress code…yes, it does suck sometimes. No facial piercings (not even nose studs – aww) and no tattoos VISIBLE. I got my nose pierced about 2 months after I got hired, and I just wear a little piece of Band-Aid over the top and it works out fine. My manager never mentions a thing to me about it.
-Pay…I started at 7.60 an hour, and after 6 months, we get an automatic raise to 8.00 an hour. But that’s just my store, I’m sure.
-Balancing school and work…I’m taking 18 credit hours at my college and I work at Starbucks part-time. It is doable – but tiring. I typically just work on the weekend and do schooling during the week. But, it depends on when they need you to work too. Other partners that work at my store work super-early mornings and then go to school (but I am not an early bird so that doesn’t work for me).
Hope that helps! I’ve been working here for 3 1/2 months now and I love it – I’m already being considered a potential shift supervisor. The only thing that sucks about it is the dress code (which they may change sometime, because people are complaining about our “diversity” thing and saying that piercings and tattoos are a great example of that) and it’s a slightly strenuous job if the store has a drive-through or is in a particularly busy spot of town. Running around like a lunatic does happen sometimes.
But good luck!
Kate says:
I just applied online to a Starbucks store inside of Vons (Safeway). I’m 16. I’ve had prior work experience. Do you think they’ll even consider me? Do they call me or should I call them soon?
Chad says:
i’m 18 years old, male and i’m concerned about what i could/should wear for the interview because i don’t want to look like some person who’s try-hard to look so professional.. please help
ME says:
so I’m 16 and i want to get a job there
do i turn in the application whenever and then they will call me for an interview or will it happen right there and then ?
i have a great personality and get along with people very well so jobs like that no problem and i learn very quick. i want this job really bad for now until like a year then im going to beauty college so how do i make sure i nail the job ?
Li says:
Would they hesitate to hire me now if I’m going to be leaving for college in late September? I’m almost 18 and a Valedictorian but I’ve never had a real job. Thanks for all of the great advice already posted!
Serenity says:
I am friends with the manager at my local Starbucks, she says that they perfer you to actually come in a day or two after you send in your application. Ask to speak to a manager who is on shift and find out if they recieved your application. That way since you are already there they can give you an interview date, and you can ask any questions. Good luck to all who apply!
Noah says:
How are the applications submitted?
Do i fax the application in? Or do i go up to the business shop i am applying to and hand in application to manager personally?
Xavier says:
What if your in sports? Will they work around practices?
J.J. says:
I sent an application to Starbucks a week ago, talked to a manager right before he left vacation. he comes back tomorrow so I’m going to follow up and call him to see if i can get an interview. I have a couple friends that work at Starbucks and they advised that i ask if the manager is free to see me and when, rather than ask about my application status. Dressing for the interview, would a tie be too much? or should i just go with the slacks, button up and dress shoes. another question, is there a such thing as being too assertive/persistence. I don’t want to annoy the manager but at the same time i know there are 2 positions in the store and i want one of them. are their any unique ways to stand out of the pack? besides clothing and smile. . . ?
Lauren says:
I’m 12, and I’m planning to work for starbucks when I’m 16. The store’s right down the street… And I want to be ready for the application when it comes. Can someone give me a list of stuff I should do to get the job?
catrina says:
does working at a coffee shop in a theme park help? I brewed starbucks, does that give me an edge? I am very knowledgeable on starbucks, and have experience in a coffee shop that “proudly serves” starbucks coffee, specialty drinks, etc
Sammie says:
Does Starbucks drug test???? Someone please answer.
cullen says:
Will Starbucks not hire you if you will be attending college at the same time?!?!?!?
B says:
“Why would you like to work for Starbucks Coffee?”
Can someone provide the best answers for this.
I usually answer something along the lines of “I enjoy good coffee and I believe I would make a good/knowledgeable salesperson.”
Also, what are they looking for in the question “Do you like coffee? Why?”
I know the answer is yes, but what would you write for why? I would write something like “It tastes good,” or “It brings people together.”
Sarah says:
i have an interview at Starbucks on thursday, and im really hoping i get the job. if anyone lives in San Diego, Starbucks is having a Job Fair at the Saturn Blvd, location from 2pm-4pm and will be having interviews and people will be getting hired on the spot.
Angie says:
If you’re Highschool student applying, do they look at GPAs?