New Barista Training Schedule Template (First 2 Weeks)

New Barista Training Schedule Template (First 2 Weeks)

It’s Sunday night, and you’re staring at a blank spreadsheet. Your newest barista, Sarah, starts tomorrow, and you need a solid barista training plan. Where do you even begin? Crafting a new employee schedule, especially for training, can feel like a herculean task. Ensuring they learn the ropes while covering your business needs is a juggling act. That’s why having a well-structured training plan template is a lifesaver.

This template provides a clear structure for the first two weeks of a new barista’s employment, covering essential skills and knowledge. Remember, a well-trained barista is a productive barista. Plus, a good first impression on a new hire drastically reduces your risk of needing to handle a difficult situation like a no-show. It’s much easier to retain a team than start from scratch. Take a look at the benefits of effective scheduling to understand the wider impact.

Why a Training Schedule is Crucial

• Consistency: Ensures all new hires receive the same training, setting a consistent service standard.
• Efficiency: Breaks down training into manageable chunks, making it easier for the trainee to absorb information.
• Accountability: Provides a clear record of what has been covered, enabling you to track progress.
• Reduced Stress: Saves you time and mental energy. No more frantic last-minute planning!

What’s Covered in the Template?

This template focuses on the core skills every new barista needs in their first two weeks. It’s designed to be adaptable to your cafe’s specific needs, but the structure remains the same.

Here’s a sneak peek of the schedule:

How to Customize This Template

1. Download the CSV: Use the link above to download the CSV template.
2. Add Your Cafe Details: Customize the schedule with your cafe’s name and the specific tasks. Include names of your lead baristas as trainers.
3. Adjust Training Times: Modify the training times to fit your cafe’s operating hours and the new hire’s availability. Consider a mix of morning and evening shifts, perhaps using a rotating shift schedule to give the new hire exposure to different peak times.
4. Specify Training Activities: Tailor the «Activity» column to reflect your cafe’s specific drinks, equipment, and procedures. Don’t forget to include opening and closing procedures.
5. Assign Trainers: Ensure you have designated trainers for each session. This is key!
6. Communicate the Schedule: Share the completed schedule with the new barista and the trainers well in advance. Consider if split shifts are a good solution. Check out What Is a Split Shift?

Pro Tip: Always include a «shadowing» or «observation» period in the first few days. This allows the new barista to observe experienced staff and get a feel for the workflow. Consider using an employee availability form when planning the schedule.

Common Mistakes When Using This Template

• Not Personalizing the Template: Don’t just use the template as-is. Adapt it to your cafe’s menu, equipment, and training style.
• Skipping the Follow-Up: Don’t just hand over the schedule and expect success. Check in with the new barista and the trainers regularly to get feedback and adjust as needed.
• Overloading the Schedule: Don’t try to cram too much into the first two weeks. Keep it focused on the essentials. Avoid the pitfall of assuming your employees are already trained, which can lead to mistakes.

Frequently Asked Questions