In order to increase employee engagement and retention, and improve customer service, Starbucks should raise wages for employees as follows:

Having higher wages will attract people who are looking to develop into higher positions. Right now we get college students or high school students who don’t plan on staying long-term and don’t take the job seriously.

I also feel like it will help employees feel like the work is worth it. We deal with very high end customers who expect expensive service, but baristas feel overworked and under-paid so they don’t have the drive to work at their best or go out of their way for a customer.

Higher wages will make a huge difference on the environment of the workplace because they will demonstrate to employees that their work is valued and appreciated. I know the perks that Starbucks offers are amazing and I’m not doubting that, but they just don’t suffice when you can’t afford to live.

I’m here to make a difference and to improve the customer experience, employees’ livelihood, and the overall morale of the business.