Fast food employees appreciate courteous customers, but some seemingly polite behaviors can actually create challenges. We take a look at 18 common customer habits that fast food employees secretly dislike and why these actions can be problematic.
Overly Detailed Orders

While being specific about your order will make sure you get exactly what you want, it can slow down service in the restaurant..Fast food kitchens are designed for speed and efficiency so complex orders can disrupt the workflow, leading to longer wait times for everyone. The McDonald’s Speedee Service System designed in 1948 demonstrates just how efficient fast food chains need to be.
Chatting at the Counter

Engaging in friendly conversation with the cashier might seem polite, but during busy times, it can delay the line. With two in three people eating fast food at least once a week, according to Drive Research, it is important for service to be as swift as possible. Employees need to keep orders moving swiftly, and extended chats can hold up the process, causing frustration for those waiting behind you. Instead, just give a polite “hello” and “have a nice day” so the worker can get on with seeing other customers.
Paying with Large Bills

Using large bills to pay for small orders can be inconvenient for fast-food employees, especially during peak hours. Large notes deplete the register of smaller bills needed for change and can slow down the service for other customers. You should pay with smaller bills or make card payments for a fast transaction.
Asking for Fresh Items

Requesting freshly made items, like fries or coffee, may seem reasonable, but it can disrupt the kitchen’s flow. Employees are trained to manage food prep to maintain freshness, so special requests can throw off their rhythm and delay service for others.
Customizing Orders Excessively

Customization is a standard feature in fast food, but excessively modified orders can be challenging. It increases the risk of errors and can slow down the line when employees are striving to get orders right. Try to put in simpler requests so they can serve all customers efficiently, or wait for a quieter time to order your specific meal.
Hovering at the Pickup Counter

Standing too close to the pickup counter can create congestion in the restaurant and make it difficult for employees to manage orders. It’s best to wait at a designated area and only approach when your order is called to avoid crowding and confusion.
Holding Up the Drive-Thru Line

Research by The Food Institute indicates that 47% of customers avoid stores that don’t have a drive-thru. Drive-thru services are designed for quick transactions, so taking too long to place your order or counting out exact change can lead to a long line of cars. You should think about your order beforehand or look online to see what’s on offer if it’s your first time at a restaurant.
Excessive Compliments

While compliments are appreciated, overdoing it can make employees uncomfortable and distract them from their tasks. A simple, sincere compliment is always welcome, but keeping it brief allows them to get on with the job at hand, and they please other customers, too.
Making Jokes About Fast Food Work

Joking about the nature of fast food jobs might be intended as light-hearted, but it can come off as disrespectful. Employees work hard under demanding conditions, and jokes about their jobs can be demoralizing.
Requesting Unlisted Menu Items
Asking for items that are not on the menu can create confusion and slow, long lines. Fast food restaurants have set menus designed for quick preparation, so sticking to the available options helps ensure faster and more accurate service for all.
Expecting Special Treatment

Expecting personalized service or special treatment, especially during busy periods, can put undue pressure on workers. Fast food is designed to be efficient and serve many customers quickly, so customers should understand that they need to be realistic about their expectations.
Not Reading the Menu

Taking time to read the menu before ordering can save time and reduce confusion when you and workers are in a hurry. . Asking numerous questions about available items or prices during the ordering process can hold up the line. You should familiarize yourself with the menu, either in the restaurant or online so you can be in and out as you should in a fast food restaurant.
Large Group Orders

Ordering for a large group through the drive-thru or at the counter can be challenging for both employees and other customers. It’s often better to place large orders inside the restaurant or call ahead if possible to avoid delays and ensure accuracy.
Using Coupons and Discounts

While coupons and discounts are welcome, presenting multiple offers or unclear discounts makes for a complicated order. Organizing your coupons and understanding the terms beforehand can help smooth the process and avoid holding up the line.
Complaining About Wait Times

Expressing frustration about wait times can be demoralizing for employees who are working hard to serve everyone promptly. Understanding that delays can happen, especially during peak hours, and remaining patient helps maintain a positive atmosphere.
Special Requests in Drive-Thru

Requesting special condiments, extra napkins, or other extras at the drive-thru can slow down the process. It’s often quicker to ask for these items at the counter or when placing your initial order to keep the drive-thru moving efficiently.
Not Being Ready to Order

Being unprepared when it’s your turn to order can hold up the line. Knowing what you want before reaching the counter or drive-thru speaker ensures a smooth and quick transaction, benefiting both employees and fellow customers. This is especially the case when you are with a large group or your kids, who may take a while to decide.
Forgetting to Say Thank You

Simple manners like saying thank you go a long way in showing appreciation for fast food employees. Acknowledging their effort with a polite thank you can brighten their day and could mean that you get better service the next time you visit.
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