Let’s face it, would any of us want to work if we didn’t work with the right people? Personally, I don’t think I would. A large part of what draws me to the work I do is the people I get to work with. 

For as long as I can remember, I’ve been pulled towards service work, and what has made or broken these jobs are the teams of people I engage with on a daily basis. Working with the right people is crucial to a thriving business, especially when you work an outside-of-the-box job like espresso catering. I want to take this blog and go over what we look for when we hire for Event Espresso. 

We are looking for people who can work independently, self-motivate, and lead with a smile even in the tightest of corners. We are also looking for people who are able to pick up a 65-80 pound espresso machine with relative ease. Not only is this a service job, but there is a manual labor component that cannot be forgotten. 

The areas we consider when hiring are: adaptability & presence, responsibility & presence, connection & community, hospitality & experience, and purpose & vision. We aren’t looking for just excellent baristas. We want events people who will show up with gusto and intention, take ownership of the space, connect with the client and guests, and want more from what they do. 

When you are a part of Event Espresso, you are a part of a family of like-minded people who want to bring a little lightness back to the world. Catering asks a lot of you, that’s why it pays so well, and we ask even a little more. We are trying to build a company with heart and culture. A company where you can be traveling across the nation and have people to pop in and see in most states. 

What does this look like? Let me show you: 

What do we want our baristas to represent beyond making drinks?

Create a positive impact on-site. You should lead with a smile, some eye-contact, and a warm greeting. Remember, you aren’t just representing yourself, you are representing a company that has been in business for 15 years across the nation. Every action matters, most especially, your words. You are already impactful, don’t forget that. We want you to show up as yourself with intention. 

Your role at events is integral in closing the loop between first time customer and repeat customer. This means being a yes person on the floor, working within the means to make the request happen. 

In what ways can they act as ambassadors of our brand, especially in diverse locations?

First, remember, you are an ambassador for this brand. You curate the scene, the energy, and the mood for your events. Catering coffee with Event Espresso is way more than just pulling shots of espresso and making wonderful lattes. You are our point person for the company to be seen and known. 

What does great service mean to us — not just technically, but emotionally?

Be light on the floor, not physically, but emotionally. Check your personal feelings at the door before you begin making coffee. Most events are only two hours of service; let that be a time where your interpersonal space doesn’t impact the room. We are looking for optimistic, helpful, aware, and kind people – no gloom, no doom while doing your service. It’s important to be proud of what you do and who you are. That’s how you lead confidently. Being an event person is knowing that confidence is contagious. 

How can a barista “curate” a customer experience in a mobile setting?

Don’t forget to smile, and lean into the conversation. Be patient. Be helpful. Be excited. Be thoughtful. Enthusiastic consent is key. Help someone figure out what they want. It’s not an automatic no, it’s figuring out how to make a request come to live. 

Don’t forget to take care of yourself – rely on your breath, make sure you’re hydrated and feed yourself 

Ask yourself: what is the mindset you’re bringing to an event? It’s okay to have a human moment on work days. We have all had our fair share of errors before walking into a suit and tie situation. But it’s remembering to not let that moment defeat you or define your mindset. Shake it off, and do the best you can in the moments to come. 

You have total ownership over the event and space, including your mindset. Steer your ship in a direction that allows you to have a positive impact. (Maintaining a neat and clean aesthetic of your work space will help you feel less overwhelmed).

Are there internal cultural values they should embody every day?

Finally, you are a part of a team. Even if it feels like it’s just you at an event, it doesn't mean there isn’t somebody to ring for wisdom, advice, help, or mood lift. If you cannot get yourself out of the rabbit hole of bad thoughts before an event, rely on your teammates to lift the mood. Standing together and relying on the help of one another is one way that we can make the whole culture stronger. 

We want you to lead with impact and purpose, but never in solitude. Event Espresso is about getting everyone to the summit, because that is where we all have the most fulfillment. This is when you get to see that the people you work with actually are the ones who make the experience worthwhile. It’s why I love service work, and what keeps my heart in the work.