Foul Mouthed coaching session

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Dear “Foul mouthed coaching conversation shift lead”,

In regards to your recent “coaching conversation” you had with a barista here, I feel it is a good time to address what is appropriate and inappropriate to say during such conversations. I understand you were upset, it was clear when you started screaming at each other on the floor. However, this would be a good example of what not to do under these circumstances.

I would have thought when I sternly, yet politely told the two of you to get off my floor, this would have been a sign that this was wrong. You however chose to go in the back and continue screaming at him, which echoed through the entire store and I continued to smile and finish everyone’s drinks all the while acting like nothing was unusual. It was especially nice to see the looks on everyone’s faces as I said “thanks, have a great day”. I must have looked like a Stepford Wife, and I would like to thank you for putting me in this extraordinarily awkward situation.

Believe me when I tell you I absolutely understand the inclination to scream at people on the floor. Unfortunately, we can’t. Let’s also break down some bottom line standards that I think will be helpful to you in the future should a situation like this occur again.

#1. When you feel like you are about to lose it with someone, that would not be the opportune time to start the conversation. Exploding into a fiery rage is very rarely useful in achieving the results you hope for.

#2. While engaging in the conversation, any form of the words “Shit” or “Fuck” should be avoided at all costs. From the echoing of your voice through the store, I understand these are your go to words of choice, and I would be lying if I said I haven’t had the same terminology run through my head at times, but the ability to censor oneself is essential in this dream world of retail management you strive to move up in.

#3. Let’s try to keep the conversations work related, staying away from phrases like “You, know you’re my boy and I F*&$ing (see rule #2) love you” should be reserved for arenas outside of work.

I feel if we focus on these three rules to start with, it will help in your development to become an assistant manager. I know, it’s tough being a manager and just another area where censorship and the inability to just be ourselves is stripped from us. It’s like selling your soul to the devil, but the long hours and middle class salary wage just makes days like this mean more. Don’t give up on living the dream, you too could have my life one day.

Sincerely,

Maggie