How do I talk like an employee

9 comments

1. So the first day is always easiest- you’ll watch some HR videos about food safety etc. You might meet some coworkers and they’ll show you how to do a few things. If you’re forgetful you can ring a pen and paper and take a few notes or just stand by and learn. You won’t have to talk much or at all. Be brave and ask if you’re not sure where something is. Otherwise just smile, say “what can I get for you?” And the customers will do the rest. As far as the menu – they have cheat sheets behind the counter showing what’s on each sandwich. Don’t be afraid to laugh and say “sorry it’s my first day!” People tend to give some slack for newbies, we’ve all been there. If any customers act snotty – hand them off to another employee and say “I’m not sure how to help them with this.” Just know you’re gonna kill it!! Good luck!!

2. What has helped me a lot is realizing I am playing a role of an employee kind of like an actor. They will give you advice there. I would smile and like the other person said give them a friendly greeting. Usually by starting of positive you will get a positive interaction back.

   I have noticed this at some food places when they have friendly employees it pushes me to be more friendly to them. Even if I am in a rush or feeling down.

   You will do great. Just realize it takes time.

3. First jobs are scary. Hell, first days are scary even if it’s your 50th job.

   As others said, you’ll be trained. But also, watch your coworkers. If you’re really nervous, go to a different Subway location tomorrow and notice how you’re greeted, what you’re asked, and what you like and dislike about the interaction.

4. Smile and never ever talk about yourself – one of the previous commenters had it right – you are playing the part of an employee and being paid to be an employee. This means don’t talk too much, just smile and ask how you can help the customers.

   Edited to add:
   Try eye contact, and if you find yourself getting bored try to guess what people will order or who will pay in a group. Will help your awareness of people and reading body language.
   Deep breaths if you need to be calm.

   And I hope it goes great!! Congrats on the job 🙂

5. Just smile more often, but be normal, everyone appreciates just acting nonchalantly, but still nice ofc.

6. 1: hey what can kind of bread can I get you today?
   2: nice choice. What meats would you like?
   3: heated or toasted?
   Now usually it’s handed off to another employee but in case you’re this employee you’re veggie person.
   4: any vegetables or sauces?
   5: would you like to add chips, a drink or a cookie?
   6: your total is ____
   7: here’s your change (if applicable) have a nice day

   Try to smile a lot but that’s really optional.

7. You will be trained on what to say, and what to do. Just do your best, and you’ll be fine!

   I’ve done a ton of customer service, training people for customer service, sales, managed restaurants, etc. One tip for dealing with upset customers is to smile while you talk to them. Keep the energy in your voice low, don’t raise your voice, and otherwise keep it professional! Think about an upset customer as a fire, and feeding into it will be like dumping gas on it. Instead, just keep everything “zen”, and you’ll be able to deal with the most difficult part of any customer-facing job 🙂 I believe in you, just based on the fact that you want to succeed. You’ll do great!

8. I think rhe biggest priority of any job, especially in the beginning , is to look for what you can do to help. After whatever tasks you’re given are completed, ask for something else to do. Ask others if you can assist them, ask to be trained on additional tasks, ask if you can get things for others. Look for ways, on your own, to be useful. As long as your conversation is oriented around “service”, you’ll be fine.

9. It’s crazy how being polite and respectful is all you really need.