Dutch Bro’s is a chain coffee company with over 1,000 locations in present time across the U.S. since their opening day in 1992. It is a very popular coffee shop that offers more than just drinks, but also an experience.
From the moment you drive into the parking lot, it is rare that you see the drive-thru empty, and that’s because Dutch Bro’s knows what they are doing when it comes to coffee.
Holly Taylor, Dutch Bro’s employee who has been with the company for over 2 years, sat down to discuss the reality of what life is like as a broista and why the job is so rewarding.
She says there are so many rewarding factors about the job but one thing is her favorite, “The connections”. While Dutch Bros is known for having employees with outgoing personalities, that doesn’t just mean with customers, Holly says, “I’ve made so many friendships along the way, and coming into shift feels like a reunion with close friends.” As a broista, Holly enjoys talking to customers and making their day brighter. Having a good interaction with someone can really set the stage for a successful shift at work that day.
Though conflicts do arise, Holly says, “I realize that not everything is going to be perfect, and that’s okay. We’re all human and we make mistakes. I accept that.” As a broista in an ever-changing environment, Holly, just like many other employees, has learned to roll with the tide. Conflicts arise for many different reasons and not all those reasons are personal.
Being an employee in a customer service industry has its issues for sure, but when asked what qualities make a good team player, Holly says, “Be ready to work hard. Be a team player. Everyone is working towards the same goal.” She also makes a point that while you should work hard, you should also remember that dutch is about more than just making coffee, it’s about making your job fun and enjoying your time with your co-workers and customers.
If you are asking yourself, “Would I make a good broista?” here’s what Holly says are qualities you should want to have: “Be that person who is able to make others feel comfortable. You have to be willing to put yourself out there and be friendly. You can find the perfect drink for any customer if you listen to them!”
As a long term broista, Holly has learned a few tricks of the trade, she says, “When you step onto shift, your job is to make a positive impact on people. I think that’s really cool.”
Holly believes that everyone should work in customer service, and that it is a good tool for everyone to learn how to deal with the public. She says, “It helps people realize there is a whole world of people out there that isn’t just about you.” Holly thinks a job like Dutch Bros can help a person understand what it means to be kind and show grace.
She believes that although she is just making drinks, there is a way she can change a few lives along the way, one cup of coffee at a time!
