Pros
Decent benefits, free coffee while on the clock, a few decent customers. When left to our own devices, partners were able to do exactly what Starbucks wanted: create enthusiastically satisfied customers all the time.
Cons
Incompetent managers, too many terrible customers, deceptive in requirements and opportunities for promotion, sub-standard pay. When management would interfere, partners were often cut off at the knees and unable to provide even marginally satisfactory customer service. This proved true in several stores at which I worked during my six years with the company. When "developing" partners for promotion, partners are commonly given a great deal of extra work to do without additional compensation. Feedback is vague and unhelpful - partners will often be "developing" for years before (or even if) they are ultimately promoted.
