Pros
The reason i applied was to take advantage of the ability to transfer stores when moving, the fantastic health benefits, and the flexibility. The free drinks while working (technically it's one free drink no more than 30 min before your shift, a drink on every break, and a drink no more than 30 min after your shift) are awesome. It makes opening the store at ungodly hours of the morning possible. The one free pound of coffee or box of tea every week is great, and because i didn't drink that much, i ended up being my dad's and my pastor's coffee supplier:) I established a lot of great relationships, especially at one store in particular. (in iowa) If you really are gung-ho about the company and want to move up, you are encouraged and put on a track to do so. Seeing friendly regulars is also fun. A female cop, who was almost a daily regular, become one of my dearest friends. :)
Cons
The biggest one is indicated in the title of my review: after a while, you realize that the company doesn't care as much about people as they say they do--the main concern is being the best well-oiled, efficient, money-generating machine it can be. Seeing everyday issues as a life-or-death situation obviously varies with the store:) At my favorite store in Iowa, where i have thousands of great memories, it was sad to watch the everyday stress on my manager's face (who was my age)----she did an AMAZING job with the store, and sales. We were the best store in the area, and were asked to train a couple other stores going up in town. But of course the district manager wasn't satisfied--kept pushing those numbers, pushing those numbers, pushing those numbers. I think the job is best when you stay a barista. That's who gets all the fun, and doesn't have to see the downside to the company. Also, as with any job in customer service, the hours can suck--be prepared to have to constantly readjust your sleep schedule! :)
