It happens to everybody. You walk into your favorite Starbucks and order a quad grande, nonfat, half-caff, extra shot, extra hot cappuccino, or maybe something from the Starbucks secret menu. Everything in life seems perfect…until you go to pick up your drink and your name is spelled wrong on the cup. “Wait, my name isn’t Nykal, it’s Michael!” The barista got your name wrong yet again.
Don’t worry, it’s not because the barista hates you (although let’s be honest, some of them probably do). You try to be understanding and nice about it, but inside you’re seething. How could they spell your name wrong? It’s not that hard! Especially when it’s a common name like ” Sarah” or ” Alex.”
Originally written by John Purcell and posted on the Hot Hot Phone Tumblr blog, comedian Paul Gale takes it one step further and created a hilarious video. There’s actually a perfectly good reason why your barista got your name wrong, and it has nothing to do with them being incompetent. In fact, it’s kind of hilarious. Spoiler alert: It’s on purpose.
Watch why Starbucks Baristas spell your name wrong…
When did this all start? Well back in 2012, Starbucks implemented a new policy named ‘On a First-Name Basis‘ that required all baristas to write down customers’ names on coffee cups. The thinking behind it was that this would help to create a more personal connection between customers and baristas. But nowhere does it state they promise to get your name right so the next time you go to Starbucks and find that your name is spelled wrong, don’t get mad at the barista. They’re just doing their job and nobody’s perfect.
But baristas do have one promise and that is, “Love your beverage or let us know. We’ll always make it right.” So if your drink isn’t quite right, don’t hesitate to ask for a do-over. Have you ever had your name hilariously misspelled at your local Starbucks? Let us know in the comments!
Please share this hilarious video with your friends and family. You might just help somebody avoid getting their name wrong at Starbucks!
