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- Overly Polite Gestures That Drive Fast-Food Workers Crazy (cheapism.com)
The Unspoken Rules of Fast Food: Are Your “Nice” Gestures Actually Annoying?
For those toiling in the fast-food trenches, a long shift can feel even longer when navigating the unpredictable world of customer interactions. While some patrons are outright demanding, others, with the best of intentions, might inadvertently make an employee’s day harder. It seems some “polite” gestures can actually backfire, leading to silent groans and eye rolls from the folks serving up your fries.
Here’s a look at some seemingly harmless habits that might be drawing the ire of your local fast-food crew:
Too Polite to Correct a Mistake? Speak Up!
We’ve all been there: the busy counter, the weary employee, the anxiety of holding up the line. You misfire on your order, or perhaps the receipt shows a misunderstanding.
While it’s easy to freeze, speaking up promptly and politely is crucial. Waiting until your order arrives to request a fix or replacement only frustrates the employee who took your order and the one who has to remake it.
It’s a time-waster for everyone involved, and let’s be honest, no one wants a meal (re)made in anger.
The Condiment Conundrum: Ask Early, Not Late
Whether you’re ordering at the counter or a digital kiosk, that’s your golden opportunity to request all the ketchup, hot sauce, or mayo your heart desires. Neglecting to do so and then hovering by the register after your order to ask a busy employee for condiments, no matter how patient you are, isn’t helping anyone.
The Change Challenge: Ditch the Pennies During Rush Hour
There was a time when paying in exact change was a thoughtful gesture, simplifying the process for cashiers. But in today’s fast-paced environment, especially during a lunch rush, a mound of change can significantly slow down the line.
If possible, try to avoid dumping out handfuls of coins as payment. Your cashier, and everyone behind you, will thank you.
Drive-Thru Delays: Check Your Order After You Pull Over
If you want to irk a fast-food employee and every driver in line behind you, simply pull this “polite” maneuver. Stopping to meticulously count items and inspect your meal at the drive-thru window is a major bottleneck. If something’s amiss, simply pull over after leaving the line and pop back inside for a quick fix.
The Undecided Customer: Step Aside or Decide Before You Line Up
This is the restaurant equivalent of a slow driver holding up traffic. Standing in line, fumbling to decide on your order, and then waving hungry customers ahead of you might seem polite, but it disrupts the restaurant’s flow. Do everyone a favor and figure out your order before you step into the queue.
First-Name Basis: Not Always Appreciated
Calling an employee by their first name, especially if you’re a complete stranger, can feel like forced familiarity. While regulars who’ve genuinely built a rapport are an exception, a nametag doesn’t automatically grant permission for casual address.
This is particularly true if you’re being rude while simultaneously using their first name. Just don’t.
Small Talk Slowdown: Save it for Another Time
While mastering small talk is a commendable skill, engaging in it with fast-food employees often does more harm than good. It slows down the flow of business, and the employee might feel pressured to maintain an artificial smile and interest while their stress levels rise. Do them a kindness and save your pleasantries for other situations.
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- Overly Polite Gestures That Drive Fast-Food Workers Crazy (cheapism.com)