Maintaining passion and commitment in any profession can be challenging, especially in the dynamic world of specialty coffee. It's incredibly important to understand the importance of keeping our team motivated and invested, particularly our veteran baristas who play a crucial role in upholding our values and culture. In this episode, we sit down with Lillabea Goins, one of our most experienced team members, to discuss service philosophies, personal growth, and the significance of being present.
The Journey of Staying in Love with Your Job
Ethan kicks off the episode by highlighting a crucial question: “How do you stay in love with a place where you’re just a barista?” This sentiment resonates deeply with anyone who has been in a role for an extended period. The initial excitement of a new job can fade, leaving behind the routine of daily tasks. But our jobs as leaders is to transform this routine into a journey of continuous growth and connection.
Reflecting on the Past
We take a moment to reflect on a recent field trip taken by the Pit Crew (our baristas) at our Alpharetta cafe. This outing wasn’t just a break from work; it was a time to reconnect, play, and remember why we do what we do. The trip included breakfast together, a Christmas in July celebration, games at an old football field, and most importantly, a trip to our favorite coffee shop, Side Track in Opelika, Alabama. These activities, seemingly simple, fostered a sense of community and reminded us of the joy in our work.
Presence and Intention
One of the standout moments of the field trip was a talk by David, the owner of Sidetrack. He emphasized the power of being present and loving intentionally. “The most holy and divine moment is the present moment,” he shared. This philosophy aligns perfectly with our service approach – Wwhether serving a customer during a busy rush or interacting with a teammate, being fully present makes a significant difference.
Celebrating the Community
Lillabea shared a delightful initiative she undertook—a reorientation for returning team member Sofia. This wasn’t a standard training session but a fun, community-focused update filled with personal anecdotes and regular updates. Such gestures not only help integrate returning team members but also strengthen the bonds within the team.
Love Travels at the Speed of 30 Seconds
David’s insight that “love travels at the speed of 30 seconds” struck a chord with us. It doesn’t take long, elaborate efforts to make someone feel valued and loved. A genuine smile, a heartfelt compliment, or a brief moment of connection can transform someone’s day. This principle is at the core of our service philosophy—serving each customer and team member with love and intention.
Challenges and Growth
Every team faces challenges, and Valor Coffee is no exception. Lillabea discussed the struggles some team members faced, from personal issues to professional doubts. However, through open communication and supportive leadership, these challenges became opportunities for growth. Encouraging team members to share their struggles and feel seen and valued fosters a resilient and committed team.
Building a Legacy
We often talk about the legacy we want to leave at Valor. It’s not just about serving great coffee but about the impact we have on each other and our community. We aim to create an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered to grow. This episode is a testament to the love and dedication that goes into making Valor a special place.
Conclusion
Keeping veteran baristas invested and passionate is a multifaceted endeavor. It involves continuous reflection, genuine connection, and intentional love. At Valor, we are committed to creating a supportive and vibrant community where everyone can thrive. As we continue to grow and evolve, we carry these lessons with us, ensuring that every team member feels valued and inspired.
