cover letter for barista positions

Barista cover letter examples

Trying to write a creative barista cover letter can really grind you down.

After all, you need to think carefully about every paragraph to ensure you get the perfect blend of qualifications, skills, experience and achievements.

But if you’re not sure how to get the balance just right, make use of our top tips and barista cover letter examples in the guide below.

CV templates 

Barista cover letter example 1

Barista cover letter example 2

Barista cover letter example 3

The Barista cover letter examples above should give you a good idea of the type of content you need to include in your own cover letter, and how it should be structured.

But if you’re really looking to wow recruiters and get your CV in front of the very best employers, then check out our guidance on how to write your own effective cover letter below.

How to write a Barista cover letter

Here’s how you can write your own eye-catching cover letter, broken down into simple steps.

Write your cover letter in the body of an email/message

You should write your cover letter in the body of the email (or messaging system if sending via a job board) and never attach it as a document.

The reason for this?

You want your cover letter to start connecting with the recruiter from the moment they open your application.

If they have to open a document to read it, it will slow things down and they may not even bother to open it.

Start with a friendly greeting

To build an instant connection with the recruiter reading your cover letter, start with a warm greeting.

It should be friendly but not casual – keeping it professional at all times.

• Hi, hope you’re well
• Hi [insert recruiter name]
• Hi [insert department/team name]

Avoid overly formal greetings like “Dear sir/madam ” unless applying to very traditional companies.

How to find the contact’s name?

Addressing the recruitment contact by name is an excellent way to start building a strong relationship. If it is not listed in the job advert, try these methods to find it.

• Check out the company website and look at their  About page. If you see a hiring manager, HR person or internal recruiter, use their name. You could also try to figure out who would be your manager in the role and use their name.
• Head to LinkedIn , search for the company and scan through the list of employees. Most professionals are on LinkedIn these days, so this is a good bet.

Identify the role you are applying for

Once you’ve opened up the cover letter with a warm greeting to start building a relationship, it is time to identify which role you want to apply for.

Recruiters are often managing multiple vacancies, so you need to ensure you apply to the correct one.

Be very specific and use a reference number if you can find one.

• I am interested in applying for the position of Barista with your company.
• I would like to apply for the role of Sales assistant (Ref: 406f57393)
• I would like to express my interest in the customer service vacancy within your retail department
• I saw your advert for a junior project manager on Reed and would like to apply for the role.

See also: CV examples – how to write a CV – CV profiles

Highlight your suitability

The sole objective of your cover letter is to motivate recruiters into to opening your CV. And you achieve this by quickly explaining your suitability to the roles you are applying for.

Take a look at the job descriptions you are applying to, and make note of the most important skills and qualifications being asked for.

Then, when crafting your cover letter, make your suitability the central focus.

Explain why you are the best qualified candidate, and why you are so well suited to carry out the job.

This will give recruiters all the encouragement they need to open your CV and consider you for the job.

Keep it short and sharp

It is best to keep your cover letter brief if you want to ensure you hold the attention of busy recruiters and hiring managers. A lengthy cover letter will probably not get read in full, so keep yours to around 3-6 sentences and save the real detail for your CV.

Remember the purpose of your cover letter is to quickly get recruiters to notice you and encourage them to open your CV, so it only needs to include the highlights of your experience.

Sign off professionally

To finish off your cover note, add a professional signature to the bottom, stating your important contact details and information.

This not only provides recruiters with multiple means of contacting you, but it also adds a nice professional appearance to the cover letter, which shows that you know how to conduct yourself in the workplace.

Include the following points;

• A friendly sign off – e.g. “Warm regards”
• Your full name
• Phone number (one you can answer quickly)
• Email address
• Profession title
• Professional social network – e.g. LinkedIn

Here is an example signature;

Warm regards,

Aaron Smith Customer service professional 075557437373 [email protected] LinkedIn

Quick tip : To save yourself from having to write your signature every time you send a job application, you can save it within your email drafts, or on a separate document that you could copy in.

What to include in your Barista cover letter

Your Barista cover letter will be unique to your situation, but there are certain content guidelines you should stick to for best results.

To attract and entice recruiters, stick with the following key subjects in your cover letter – adapting them to fit your profession and target jobs.

• Your professional experience – Employers will be keen to know if your experience is suitable for the job you are applying to, so provide a good summary of it in your cover letter.
• Your qualifications and education – Highlight your most relevant and high-level of qualification, especially if they are essential to the job.
• The positive impact you have made – Employers love to hear about the benefits you can bring to them, so shout about anything impressive you have done, such as saving money or improving processes.
• Your reasons for leaving – Use a few words of your cover letter to explain why you are leaving your current job and ensure you avoid any negative reasons.
• Your availability – Let recruiters know when you can start a new job . Are you immediately available, or do you have a month notice period?

Barista cover letter templates

Copy and paste these Barista cover letter templates to get a head start on your own.

I am thrilled to apply for the Trainee Barista position at your esteemed coffeehouse. With a passion for creating exquisite coffee concoctions and experience in delivering exceptional customer service, I am confident that I possess the ideal qualities to excel in this role.

During my barista training at Café Academy, I honed my skills in various brewing techniques, consistently receiving glowing feedback from 95% of customers in satisfaction surveys. My proficiency in latte art also garnered social media recognition, contributing to a 30% increase in the café’s online presence. In my previous part time job as a waitress at Pizza Express, I maintained an immaculate workspace, leading to zero health code violations during surprise inspections. Moreover, my efficient handling of high-volume orders resulted in a remarkable 20% reduction in wait times during peak hours.

I am eager to discuss how my passion for coffee and commitment to customer satisfaction can contribute to your coffeehouse’s success and my availability for an interview is flexible.

Kind Regards,

Sophie Harlett ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

I hope this email finds you well.

I am writing to submit my application for the Barista position at 29 Degrees, as advertised. My love for speciality coffee combined with my proven track record in delivering exceptional customer service makes me an ideal fit for this role at your independent coffee shop.

As a former Barista at Starbucks, I efficiently prepared up to 100 drinks daily, demonstrating my proficiency in following recipes to create classic and seasonal beverages. My knowledge of new menu items and specials allowed me to confidently engage with customers, resulting in increased upselling by 15%. Moreover, my proactive approach to restocking coffee and milk contributed to a 20% reduction in waiting time during peak hours. In my previous role as a café assistant, I streamlined the coffee-making process by 24% while working with two baristas, enabling us to serve more customers promptly.

My availability for an interview is open, and I look forward to the opportunity to showcase my passion for crafting high-quality coffee beverages.

Kind regards,

Jack Tanner ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

I am thrilled to apply for the Head Barista role at the Headingley branch of Café #7. My 6 years of experience as a dedicated Barista in independent coffee shops and renowned chains like Costa Coffee, and background in Events Management, have equipped me with the skills to take on this senior role.

In my current position at Spoons Cafe & Wine Bar I take immense pride in delivering consistent high-quality specialty coffee and a diverse range of beverages. My commitment to sustainability is evident through minimising waste and promoting environmentally conscious practices. My proactive approach in partnering with local roasteries has allowed the cafe to feature coffee selections from 21 independent roasteries in 2021 and 30 in 2022, amplifying its reputation. As a former Barista & Server at Costa Coffee, I processed up to 100 drink orders daily and was recognised twice as “Employee of the Month” among 45 employees.

I am eager to leverage my passion for coffee, leadership skills, and exceptional customer service to contribute to your establishment’s success. I am available for an interview starting from next week.

Teo Baum ¦ 07777777777 ¦ [email protected]

Writing a strong attention-grabbing cover letter is a vital step in landing a good Barista job.

Use the tips, strategies and examples above to get more responses from you job applications and start lining job interview up.

Good luck with your job search!

5 Professional Barista Cover Letter Examples for 2024

Your barista cover letter must showcase your passion for coffee and customer service. Highlight your experience with specialty beverages and your ability to work in a fast-paced environment. Demonstrate your communication skills and your knack for making patrons feel welcome. Detail your commitment to maintaining a clean and organized workspace, which is essential for any barista position.

All cover letter examples in this guide

Senior Barista

Entry-Level Barista

Coffee Shop

Cover letter guide.

Barista Cover Letter Sample

Cover Letter Format

Cover Letter Salutation

Cover Letter Introduction

Cover Letter Body

Cover Letter Closing

No Experience Barista Cover Letter

Key Takeaways

By Experience

Embarking on your job hunt, you realize your dream barista position requires more than just a resume; a compelling cover letter is your ticket in. Crafting this crucial document is daunting—avoiding repetition of your resume, while spinning a tale around your proudest professional moment is challenging. With a blend of formality and originality, and the discipline to keep it to one page, your cover letter can percolate through the piles. Here's how to create a cover letter that lands you the job, without leaning on tired clichés.

• Personalize the greeting to address the recruiter and your introduction that fits the role;
• Follow good examples for individual roles and industries from job-winning cover letters;
• Decide on your most noteworthy achievement to stand out;
• Format, download, and submit your barista cover letter, following the best HR practices.

Use the power of Enhancv's AI: drag and drop your barista resume, which will swiftly be converted into your job-winning cover letter.

If the barista isn't exactly the one you're looking for we have a plethora of cover letter examples for jobs like this one:

• Barista resume guide and example
• Restaurant Server cover letter example
• Fast Food cover letter example
• Event Bartender cover letter example
• Restaurant Operations Manager cover letter example
• Hotel Bartender cover letter example
• Fine Dining Bartender cover letter example
• Cocktail Bartender cover letter example
• Restaurant General Manager cover letter example
• Food Service Manager cover letter example
• Food and Beverage Manager cover letter example

Barista cover letter example

ALEXANDER TAYLOR

Jacksonville, Florida

+1-(234)-555-1234

[email protected]

• Alignment of Values: Clearly articulates how personal values and experiences align with the company's commitment to quality and community engagement, demonstrating a thoughtful consideration of cultural fit.
• Evidence of Success: Cites a specific example of success in previous roles, such as the implementation and positive results of a customer loyalty program, showcasing an ability to generate revenue and improve customer retention.
• Relevant Expertise: Highlights specific skills and experiences related to the barista role, such as high-performance cash handling and sales growth strategies, positioning the candidate as a strong fit for the financial and customer service aspects of the job.
• Proactive Approach: Asserts a desire to discuss personal qualifications and their alignment with the job's unique opportunities, conveying enthusiasm and a proactive mindset.

What about your barista cover letter format: organizing and structuring your information

Here is one secret you should know about your barista cover letter assessment. The Applicant Tracker System (or ATS) won't analyze your cover letter.

You should thus focus on making an excellent impression on recruiters by writing consistent:

• Introduction
• Body paragraphs (and explanation)
• Promise or Call to action
• Signature (that's optional)

Now, let's talk about the design of your barista cover letter.

Ensure all of your paragraphs are single-spaced and have a one-inch margins on all sides (like in our cover letter templates ).

Also, our cover letter builder automatically takes care of the format and comes along with some of the most popular (and modern) fonts like Volkhov, Chivo, and Bitter.

Speaking of fonts, professionals advise you to keep your barista cover letter and resume in the same typography and avoid the over-used Arial or Times New Roman.

When wondering whether you should submit your barista cover letter in Doc or PDF, select the second, as PDF keeps all of your information and design consistent.

The top sections on a barista cover letter

Header: Include your contact information and the date to ensure the hiring manager can easily get in touch with you, which is crucial for a role that often requires quick and clear communication.

Greeting: Address the cover letter to the specific hiring manager or the owner of the coffee shop to show attention to detail and personalize your application, an important trait for a barista who regularly engages with customers.

Introduction: Introduce yourself with a brief mention of your passion for coffee and any relevant experience to immediately establish your suitability and enthusiasm for the barista position.

Body: Detail specific experiences where you have excelled in customer service, and highlight any coffee-making skills or certifications you possess to convince the recruiter of your practical qualifications and readiness to excel in a coffee shop setting.

Closing: End your cover letter by reiterating your interest in the position, inviting the hiring manager to review your resume for detailed experiences, and express eagerness to discuss your potential fit for the barista role in an interview, showing proactive engagement and a high level of interest.

Key qualities recruiters search for in a candidate’s cover letter

• Experience with coffee preparation techniques (e.g., espresso-making, milk steaming, latte art): Demonstrates skill in creating a wide range of beverages to a high standard.
• Customer service excellence: Highlights the ability to engage positively with customers, ensuring a pleasant café experience and fostering repeat business.
• Knowledge of coffee beans and brewing methods: Shows an understanding of product variety and the skill to recommend and prepare beverages according to customer preferences.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment: Indicates the candidate can handle high volumes of orders efficiently without compromising quality.
• Cash handling and POS operation: Suggests the candidate is trustworthy and capable of managing transactions and operating point-of-sale systems accurately.
• Maintenance of a clean and hygienic work environment: Reflects the candidate's commitment to health and safety standards, which is crucial in food and beverage service.

How to start your barista cover letter: with a greeting, of course

Have you ever considered just how powerful a personalized salutation can be?

We sure have news for you! Your barista cover letter should start with the right salutation to recruiters, nurturing a sense of respect and individuality.

Greet recruiters by using their first name (e.g. "Dear Tom" or "Dear Patricia") if you've previously established contact with them.

Otherwise, opt out for the less familiar, "Dear Ms. Peaches" or "Dear Ms Kelsey", if you've found the recruiter's name on LinkedIn or a corporate website.

"To whom it may concern" is never a good option, as it creates a sense that you've been sending out your barista cover letter to anyone. Instead, use "Dear HR team" or "Dear (company name) recruiter" for a feeling of exclusivity.

List of salutations you can use

• Dear Hiring Manager,
• Dear [Company Name] Team,
• Dear [Manager's Name],
• Dear [Department Name] Team,
• Dear [Mr./Ms. Last Name],
• Dear [Job Title or Position],

The barista cover letter intro: aligning your interest with the company culture

You only have one chance at making a memorable first impression on recruiters with your barista cover letter.

Structure your introduction to be precise and to include no more than two sentences.

Here are some ideas on how to write a job-winning barista cover letter introduction:

• get creative - show off your personality from the get-go (if this aligns with the company culture);
• focus on your motivation - be specific when you say what gets you excited about this opportunity.

How to select your best achievement for the middle, or the barista cover letter body

You probably feel exhausted by this point in your application: you've dived into all the details of your success and skills in your barista resume.

What else can you include in your barista cover letter body ?

Well, for starters, the next three to six paragraphs should show you further value as a professional. Or, why should recruiters choose you?

Think back on a noteworthy achievement that answers key job requirements and dive deep.

Structure your barista cover letter middle as you'd a story: following chronological logic and highlighting outcomes, thanks to skills.

At the end of the day, you'd want recruiters to be able to see you as the best candidate for the role and understand more about who you are and what makes your success unique (and valuable to the role).

Ending your barista cover letter: a closing paragraph with a promise

If you're thinking of finishing your barista cover letter with a "Sincerely yours" or "Thanks for the consideration," you need to read on.

End the final paragraph of your barista cover letter with a twist:

• a promise - of how you'd grow as a professional, part of the company, or improve organizational metrics;
• a call to action - prompt interviewers with some follow-up actions if they are interested in your profile.

A personalized ending would surely help you to stand out by being a memorable candidate.

Which story should you tell in your barista cover letter when you have zero experience

Candidates, lacking professional experience in the field - this one is for you.

Your barista cover letter is an exercise of integrity, honesty, and, above all, spinning a positive narrative around your strengths.

And what better way to capture recruiters' attention than with your most job-relevant achievement (this could be from your internship or volunteering experience)?

Make sure to back up your success with transferrable skills that are relevant to the job (e.g. how your year, studying abroad, has taught you to be more motivated and handle multicultural environments).

Another safe card you can bet on is your career dream: in the body of your barista cover letter, go into the details of how your ambitions would help make the company you're applying for better.

Key takeaways

Turning your barista cover letter into a success is all about staying authentic to yourself and relevant to the job:

• Be creative with your barista cover letter introduction by stating something you enjoy about the company (that is genuine) or about your skill set (to get the recruiters' interested);
• Use single spacing and have a one-inch margin wrapping all around the content of your barista cover letter;
• Select just one past achievement from your career or life to tell a story of how you've obtained job-crucial skills and how they'd be beneficial to the role;
• The finishing paragraph of your barista cover letter doesn't necessarily have to be a signature but could be a promise of what you plan to achieve in the role;
• Instead of focusing on your lack of experience, spotlight your transferable skills, one relevant achievement, and career dreams.

Barista cover letter examples

Explore additional barista cover letter samples and guides and see what works for your level of experience or role.

Cover letter examples by industry

AI cover letter writer, powered by ChatGPT

Enhancv harnesses the capabilities of ChatGPT to provide a streamlined interface designed specifically focused on composing a compelling cover letter without the hassle of thinking about formatting and wording.

• Content tailored to the job posting you're applying for
• ChatGPT model specifically trained by Enhancv
• Lightning-fast responses

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Barista Cover Letter Template

Land your dream job and learn how to improve your cover letter with this editable Barista cover letter template. Use this cover letter example at no cost or rewrite it using our HR-approved cover letter creator.

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Barista Cover Letter Template (Full Text Version)

Dear Hiring Manager,

I am an experienced Barista with a deep appreciation for the coffee industry, and I am excited to express my interest in the opportunity available at your establishment.

I began my journey in the coffee industry as a Trainee Barista at Hearty Coffee in 2016, where I quickly advanced to the positions of Barista and Lead Barista. In these roles, I have honed my skills in brewing coffee, serving guests, organizing events, and training new team members. I have a strong understanding of the behind-the-scenes operations that contribute to a positive guest experience, and I am dedicated to upholding high standards of cleanliness and professionalism.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at Hearty Coffee, but I am now seeking a new challenge in a different environment where I can continue to grow and make a positive impact. I have attached my résumé for your review, and I am eager to discuss how my skills and experience align with the needs of your team.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to contribute to your establishment.

Sincerely, Adam Smith

Milan Šaržík, CPRW

Milan’s work-life has been centered around job search for the past three years. He is a Certified Professional Résumé Writer (CPRW™) as well as an active member of the Professional Association of Résumé Writers & Careers Coaches (PARWCC™). Milan holds a record for creating the most career document samples for our help center – until today, he has written more than 500 resumes and cover letters for positions across various industries. On top of that, Milan has completed studies at multiple well-known institutions, including Harvard University, University of Glasgow, and Frankfurt School of Finance and Management.

Edit this sample using our resume builder.

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Chef Food Preparation Animator Restaurant Manager Concierge Waiter Housekeeping Bartender Hotel Manager

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Barista Resume Examples for 2024 [Examples + Guide]

You’re a barista. 

You serve delicious cups of coffee to crowds of keen customers.

But it’s not easy to create a resume that “hits the spot” just like your coffee.

What do you include in a barista resume, anyway?

Well, that’s exactly what we’re about to answer.

Simply follow the steps in this guide for a job-winning barista resume .

• An example of a finished barista resume that works
• How to write a barista resume that’ll fill up your interview diary
• How to make your barista resume stand out [with top tips & tricks]

Before you can show off your attributes, you can check the barista resume example at the beginning of the article , created with our very own resume builder:

If you're applying for a different job in the service industry, here's some more resume examples that might interest you:

• Server Resume
• Waiter Resume
• Bartender Resume
• Cashier Resume
• Customer Service Resume
• Receptionist Resume
• Event Planner Resume
• Bar and Restaurant Manager Resume

Follow the steps below to create a job-winning barista resume, just like the example above.

How to Format a Barista Resume

Before you can treat the hiring manager to a piping-hot resume, you need to prepare!

But what does this mean?

Well, you need a format that makes your resume easy to digest.

The most common resume format is “ reverse-chronological ”, and it is for good reason. This format puts your best achievements up-top, which allows the hiring manager to immediately see why you’re the best barista.

Baristas could also use the following formats, depending on their experience:

• Functional Resume – If you’re confident in your barista skills, but lack the coffee shop experience, the functional resume format is recommended. This type of resume focuses on skills, which makes it ideal for coffee-lovers who lack work experience or who have gaps in their employment history.
• Combination Resume – Combining both “Functional” and “Reverse-Chronological”, those baristas with the required skills and experience may want to use this format.

Now that you’ve picked the correct format for your situation, you need to arrange your resume layout .

For a barista resume that looks the part, we recommend:

• Margins - One-inch margins on all sides
• Font - Use a professional font that stands out, but not too much
• Font Size - Stick to 11-12pt font size for normal text and 14-16pt for headers
• Line Spacing - Use 1.0 or 1.15 line spacing
• Resume Length - Maintain a 1-page limit. For guidance, view these one-page resume templates

Use a Barista Resume Template

Nearly everyone will agree that Word is fantastic for creating simple documents.

But when you need a well-formatted barista resume, you may want to look elsewhere.

Why do we say this?

Well, Word isn’t the best for holding structure.

To avoid an afternoon of frustration, use a barista resume template .

What to Include in a Barista Resume

The main sections in a barista resume are:

• Work Experience
• Contact Information

To really make an impact, you can also add these optional sections:

• Awards & Certification

Interests & Hobbies

So those are the essential sections for a barista resume, but what content should you add to each of them? Let’s find out!

For a full rundown on each section, view our guide on What to Put on a Resume .

How to Correctly Display your Contact Information

Now, this isn’t the section for creative writing.

The only requirement is factually-correct content.

Imagine that the hiring manager is keen to invite you for an interview.

But there’s a problem…

Your phone number is incorrect.

As you can see, getting this section wrong is no laughing matter!

The contact information section must include:

• Title - Align this to the role you’re applying for, so “Barista”
• Phone Number - Check this for mistakes
• Email Address - Keep your email professional ([email protected])
• (Optional) Location - Applying for a barista job abroad? Mention your location.
• (Optional) Relevant Social Media Profiles - e.g.: LinkedIn
• Rebecca Biggins, Barista. 101-358-6095. [email protected]
• Rebecca Biggins, Coffee Queen. 101-358-6095. [email protected]

How to Write a Barista Resume Summary or Objective

Cafes and coffee shops are always hunting for more staff.

However, they also have a HUGE pool of applicants to choose from.

With this in mind, it’s no surprise that most hiring managers spend less than 6 seconds on each resume.

Yep, that’s right!

Although worrying, this fact highlights the importance of a resume that commands attention.

Simply put, you have just a matter of seconds to hook the reader.

But HOW can you do this?

Use a resume summary or objective .

As a barista, you’re aware that an introductory “hello” is vital.  

Similarly, both summaries and objectives are vital introductions to your resume.

But what is the difference between a summary and an objective?

A resume summary is a 2-4 sentence paragraph that summarizes your most notable café experiences and achievements.

• Fast-working and friendly barista with five years of experience working at a busy coffee shop in Boston, with an overall customer satisfaction score of 97%. Skilled in coffee brewing, table setting, stock management, and more. Seeking to leverage interpersonal skills and a commitment to great coffee to become a barista at CAFÉ XYZ.

A resume objective is a 2-4 sentence paragraph of what you want to achieve. 

• Enthusiastic and friendly coffee lover looking for a barista role at CAFÉ XYZ. Passionate about keeping customers happy and satisfied. Relevant experience includes serving customers at GYM XYZ. Skilled in POS and communication, with a vast knowledge of 40+ types of coffee.

So, should barista hopefuls use a summary or an objective?

Generally, people with relevant café work experience should choose a resume summary. A resume objective is ideal for those with the required skills, but lack specific café experience.

How to Make Your Barista Work Experience Stand Out

Recruiters love nothing more than a barista with work experience .

A solid work history instils confidence and reduces the perceived risk in hiring someone new.

As such, you’ll want to use this section to impress.

Here’s the best way to structure your work experience section:

• Position name
• Company Name
• Responsibilities & Achievements

Ultimate Cafe

06/2018 – 03/2020

• Based on receipt surveying, I achieved a 99.8% satisfaction score during my two years at Ultimate Café
• Prepared and delivered a range of beverages for 100+ customers a day
• Educated customers on the different beverages, while offering my personal opinions based on their feedback

Instead of simply listing your daily tasks, you should display how you were a valuable asset at your previous/current place of work. Doing so will allow the recruiter to immediately see the benefits to bringing you in as the new barista. 

Instead of saying:

“Kept customers happy”.

“Based on receipt surveying, I achieved a 99.8% satisfaction score during my two years at Ultimate Café”.

Apart from the second statement being longer, what’s the difference?

Well, the first statement has little validity. It’s very vague.

On the other hand, the second statement uses hard figures to back-up your skills. It’s easy to see why you would make a great barista!

What if You Don’t Have Any Relevant Work Experience?

Maybe you’re studying and looking for your first barista job?

Or maybe, you have experience in customer service, but never in a coffee shop?

Whatever the case may be, there are options you can take.

Here are several ways you can gain some extra experience to impress the hiring manager:

• Volunteer for a local food shelter
• Get a food handling license
• Sign up for a culinary arts course

Are you recent university graduate? You may want to view our student resume guide !

Use Action Words to Make Your Barista Resume POP!

Hiring managers are faced with the same generic words in every resume they read. 

But this is a good thing.

Well, for you it is.

This is because you can easily make your resume stand out by using some power words:

• Conceptualized

How to Correctly List your Education

Next, it’s time to talk about your education.

Now, having a higher education doesn’t make you a good barista, so there’s no need to be intimidated by this section. 

Just keep things simple by entering your education history in the follow format:

• Qualification Type 
• Institution Name
• Years Studied
• GPA, Honours, Courses, and anything else you might want to add

Majoring in Culinary Arts

Ohio State University

2017 - Present

• Relevant Courses: Food and Beverage Operations, Food Microbiology and Hygiene, Kitchen Techniques, and Pastry Techniques]

Still have a few questions? Here are the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions from barista-hopefuls:

• What if I haven’t completed education yet?

Doesn’t matter. Skills and experience come first and foremost

• Should I include my high school education?

Generally, only list highest education. However, if you’ve completed a course relating to being a barista, include that

• What goes first, my education or experience?

An experienced barista wins, every time. However, those with no experience should start with their education

For in-depth answers, check out our guide on how to list education on a resume .

Top 13 Skills for a Barista Resume

Whether you have the skills to carry three coffees at once, or posses a friendly smile that makes customers feel at home, the hiring manager will want to know.

With that said… there’s not enough space to list every skill in your arsenal.

So, what do café owners want from employees?

Here’s a trick: look at the job ad to identify which skills the café is looking for.

And if you need more inspiration, here are some of the most common barista skills:

Hard Skills:

• Math (basic calculations)
• POS & cash register 
• Latte art / milk steaming
• Coffee bean grinding
• Manual and automatic coffee brewing
• Adept with Espresso machines
• Table setting / food preparation 
• Inventory management 

Soft Skills:

• Personable and friendly 
• Endurance (long hours)
• Conflict resolution 
• Time management 
• Team player
• It is worth nothing that interviewers will typically ask interviewees to explain more about the skills listed. As such, only list skills that you actually posses.

Here’s a more comprehensive list of 150+ must-have skills this year.

What Else Can You Include in Your Barista Resume?

Remember, you need a resume that stands out!

So even though you have completed the essential sections, you shouldn’t call it a day just yet.

Including the following sections in your resume could be the deciding factor in whether you’re hired for the barista job or not!

Awards & Certifications

Have you ever been employee of the month?

Have you completed any third-party courses that are relevant to the role?

Whatever the award is, be sure to include it in your resume!

Here’s an example:

• “Employee of the Month” - Ultimate Cafe
• “Learning How to Learn” - Coursera Certificate

Applying to an Italian coffee shop?

Then knowing some Italian is sure to help your chances. 

Whether it’s specified in the job description or not, the ability to be able to speak multiple languages is impressive – and who can argue with that!?

Rank your languages by proficiency:

• Intermediate

Now, you’re likely wondering, “how is my art class related to my work as a barista?”

Well, this section allows the hiring manager to get to know you on a personal level. 

The café wants an employee that will make a good addition to the team.

The best way to do this is by talking about your hobbies, especially those hobbies which involve social interaction.

Here’s which hobbies & interests you may want to mention.

Include a Cover Letter with Your Resume

Want to really impress your future employer?

Then match your resume with a convincing cover letter.

You see, a resume is the perfect tool for delivering vital information, but nothing speaks to the hiring manager like a well-written cover letter.

Put yourself in the shoes of the hiring manager – imagine having to read through 50 resumes, one after the other.

That would be both boring and confusing, which is why it’s not uncommon for the hiring manager to become confused between multiple applications!

A cover letter makes a personal connection, while ensuring you’ll be remembered.

Oh, and writing a specific cover letter shows the hiring manager that you care about working for their café.

Here’s how to create a structure that works:

Complete the following sections for a job-winning cover letter:

Personal Contact Information

Include your full name, profession, phone number, email, and address.

Hiring Manager’s Contact Information

Include their full name, position, location, email.

Opening Paragraph

To capture the hiring manager’s attention, your resume needs an opening paragraph that packs a punch. Briefly mention:

• The barista position you’re applying for
• Your experience summary and best achievement to date

Once you’ve got the hiring manager’s attention, you can delve further into the following specifics:

• Why you chose this specific café
• What you know about their culture and company goals
• How your skills will be beneficial to the café
• Whether you’ve worked in similar positions before

Closing Paragraph

Finish with a closing paragraph that:

• Concludes the main points of your cover letter
• Thanks the reader for their time and for the opportunity
• Ends with a call to action. For example, “At your earliest convenience, I’d love to discuss more about how I can help Café X” will work.

Formal Salutations

While remaining personal, the letter should end in a professional manner. Use something like, “Kind regards” or “Sincerely.”

For extra cover letter advice, view our step-by-step guide on how to write a cover letter .

Key Takeaways

Well, that’s the winning recipe!

Let’s total up everything we’ve consumed:

• Pick the correct format for your specific situation and level of experience. Prioritize the reverse-chronological format, and then follow the recommended layout
• Use a short, snappy resume summary or objective to catch the recruiters attention
• For your work experience, highlight your most relevant and best achievements, rather than your daily duties
• For a personal and highly-specific application, include a convincing cover letter

Suggested Reading:

• Why Should We Hire You - 10+ Best Answers
• 26+ Biggest Interview Mistakes (To Avoid in 2024)
• Phone Interview Questions & Tips - How to Ace It In 2024

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The résumé hack to use to get recruiters' attention

• The F-method helps recruiters identify key info by structuring résumés for how they read them. 
• This approach can help job seekers because recruiters might spend only seconds looking at a résumé.
• Highlighting key skills and accomplishments up top can help hiring managers and scanning software.

Sometimes, an F can be a good thing .

Take the so-called F-method. It's a way of organizing your résumé so that a recruiter can read the most important parts across the top — like the upper portion of the letter F.

The next most essential info goes farther down with keywords or points sticking out like the arm on an F.

The idea behind the framework is to help someone looking over your résumé get to the good stuff right away. That's because recruiters might spend only seconds scanning your work history and other accomplishments, and you need to make sure you really stand out, really quickly.

"The skills section on my résumé is in that 'F.' It's in that direct line of sight," Lee Woodrow, owner and principal consultant at Bigger Fish Executive Branding , told Business Insider.

Highlighting the top information right away is all the more important in an environment where it's getting harder to get desk jobs — and where the ease of applying means recruiters are often overrun with applications.

'Buzzword bingo'

Woodrow, who's been writing résumés for others for many years, said the top of a CV built around the F-method should include essential information about the value you bring: details like who you are professionally, what area your expertise is in, and which industries you've worked in.

"It's an elevator pitch," he said. That information belongs at the top near your name, he said, so that it gets seen. "That entices the reader to read on."

It's also important, Woodrow said, to have the right words and phrases up high where a busy recruiter can see them.

"It's like buzzword bingo," he said.

This is often important when recruiters are trying to fill technical roles. They might not have a lot of background in the particulars of a job, so they might be on the hunt for phrases or words that a hiring manager has flagged.

Related stories

Setting your résumé up with the F-method can mean a break from traditional formats, such as listing your work experience in reverse chronological order, which may surprise some.

But Woodrow said floating the most important ideas to the top makes sense if, for example, your most relevant experience for a job isn't tied to your latest role. Or, in other cases, he said, a job posting might call for someone with a master's degree or a Ph.D.

"Why would you put it lower down on page two or three? You'd want it on page one somewhere — highlighting it in that area which is in the 'F,'" Woodrow said.

In any case, he said, it's important to keep the most relevant information on the first page of a résumé.

Have a few goals in mind

Woodrow said one goal for your résumé should be ensuring it can be easily read by the applicant-tracking software companies often use to sift through job applications. Another aim should be having clear section titles so the document is a breeze for a recruiter to navigate. Highlight things like relevant job experience for a role you're going for, he said.

Last, Woodrow said, a résumé needs to influence a decision-maker by giving proof of your accomplishments. He recommends including three brief examples on the first page about how you solved a problem. To do this, describe a situation, give context, and use metrics from the business, if possible, to demonstrate how you improved a situation.

It's an abbreviated version of the STAR technique , sometimes used in interviewing, and involves describing a situation or task, actions, and results.

Kyle Samuels, founder and CEO of the executive search firm Creative Talent Endeavors , told BI that using the F-method to lay out a résumé can make sense for technical roles where a recruiter needs to know you have a certain amount of experience with, say, a particular programming language or modeling.

But in other cases, where a job might be more senior, artificial intelligence tools that do a first pass on a stack of résumés might make the F idea somewhat moot because AI bots can scoop up huge volumes of information.

"It kind of feels like a poor man's AI," Samuels said, referring to the F-method.

He said that with a role like a VP of marketing, you might have several candidates who would be a great fit.

"We're not expecting to see the exact same formatting or skills or experience, and so we really pore through the résumé," Samuels said.

That's why, especially when recruiting for more senior roles, there's little substitute for reading a résumé thoroughly, he said.

"I study it like the Torah," Samuels said.

• Main content

More From Forbes

Get clear on your skills in today's evolving job market.

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Career coach and LinkedIn expert ( Linked Into Jobs ); author and founder of The Job Search School. Learn how to find your dream job.

It’s an ideal time for career changes. Why? Well, as Baby Boomers retire, many positions previously held by experienced professionals are now up for grabs. But there's a catch—there aren't enough people in the next generation with the right experience to fill these roles. This transition has left employers scrambling to fill positions, often looking beyond traditional criteria and valuing a diverse range of experiences.

This creates a unique opportunity for job seekers willing to adapt and match their skill sets to the needs of today’s employers.

Why Skill Clarity Matters Now

As the job landscape changes, employers are more open to looking outside their usual "mold" to find the right talent. Whether it's due to the flexibility of remote work opportunities or the need to fill roles left by retiring professionals, the market is ripe for those ready to step up.

There's also another shift taking place in the job market: In many industries, entry-level positions are now being done by AI bots. So those entry-level people need to upskill to the next level to stay employed.

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To stand out in this competitive environment, clarity about the skills you offer is crucial.

Pin Down Both Hard And Soft Skills

You possess a blend of skills, both hard and soft. Hard skills include technical abilities like computer programming or mechanical engineering—specific, teachable abilities that are easy to quantify. On the other hand, soft skills—often undervalued but equally important—are your transferable skills. These include effective communication, project management and leadership, which are crucial across various industries.

Take some time to list all your skills. Start with the responsibilities of your current job, then think about how these responsibilities expand or evolve. For example, if you're in sales, you might handle everything from customer relations to budget management.

Understanding and promoting these skills can help you seamlessly transition to another industry or climb higher in your current field.

Assess What You Love (And What You Don't)

After you've mapped out your skills, it's essential to reflect on what you genuinely enjoy doing and what you'd rather avoid. This insight will guide your next career steps, helping ensure they lead to satisfaction and growth.

Explore what job titles or roles might fit your preferred skills. Just remember, a shift in role might mean a change in salary, so it’s wise to do some research on potential earnings through platforms like LinkedIn, Glassdoor and Indeed to set realistic expectations.

Optimize Your LinkedIn Profile And Résumé

Now, let’s talk about tailoring your LinkedIn profile and résumé. Make sure your headline, summary and work history use industry-specific keywords and clearly demonstrate how your past experiences make you a great fit for new opportunities. Also use LinkedIn and related sites to connect with colleagues, join relevant groups and follow companies you’re interested in to enhance your visibility and network.

And be sure to include accomplishments in your summary and your past experiences sections. Hiring managers and recruiters are much more interested in seeing a skill being used to achieve a result than just a long list of skills. Anyone can make a long skill list, but not everyone has the accomplishments that you do!

Prepare Your Pitch

Finally, get your pitch ready for interviews. Check your top skills against the job description, and be ready to discuss these points, backed by concrete examples of your achievements. This preparation ensures you can confidently convey why you’re the right fit for the role.

Finally, at the interview, don't just talk about yourself; rather, sell yourself by telling a potential employer exactly what you can do for them with your skill set if chosen for the role.

Wrapping It Up

Remember, a job search can take time, especially when shifting to a new industry or role. As basketball legend Larry Bird once said , "A winner is someone who recognizes his God-given talents, works his tail off to develop them into skills, and uses these skills to accomplish his goals."

So take this time to truly understand and refine your skills. When presented effectively, they are the key to unlocking the next exciting chapter in your career journey.

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