Working in Fast Food

When I started this site, I thought I would be posting more often. But I get busy, of course.

When I was in high school I worked at a place in a mall food court for a few months and then Pizza Hut for a year. Later during one summer of college I worked as a delivery person for KFC. I have done my share as a fast food worker. I may not ever take that kind of job again, but I’m glad for the experiences I had.

I believe everyone should work fast food as one of their first jobs. The lessons available are valuable. While it’s not a given, it’s possible for a person to learn many virtues there, such as the importance of a good work ethic, customer service skills, and compassion for the common worker. I will focus on compassion.

In spite of the pressures of speed, accuracy, and co-worker drama, fast food workers are expected to deal pleasantly with a constant stream of customers. Working with customers is hard. They are not always right. They can be rude, or expect more than is possible. They can be accusatory. They sometimes talk on their phone and treat you like an order-taking machine.

But having worked in those jobs, I am not one of those horrible customers. I haven't become a push-over, but I am compassionate. I give people who help me the benefit of the doubt. I understand that the person I’m speaking with is not necessarily at fault for a mistake. I recognize the learning curve for a new employee and wait patiently. I never raise my voice. What are they thinking who raise their voice to a complete stranger who is just trying to do their job?

I know people make mistakes. Having worked fast food, I know that it is possible to remain upbeat and pleasant even under stressful situations, therefore, I do expect good service. But when things aren’t exactly as I would like, I try to have compassion.