Is Barista Training Hard? 5 Tips for Beginner Baristas

By Mark •  Updated: 10/26/22 •  5 min read

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You love coffee. You’ve been going to your local coffee shop every morning for years and wondered what it would be like to work there. So you might wonder if it’s hard to train to become a barista.

During training, baristas learn how to grind coffee beans, measure them accurately, and froth milk to create the perfect foam. They also learn how to operate the espresso machine and troubleshoot any problems. In short, becoming a barista takes hard work and dedication.

Keep reading to find out more about barista training.

Is barista training hard
Is barista training hard?

You’ve heard that the learning curve is steep and that becoming a barista takes a lot of time and practice to become proficient. Is it as difficult as people say?

Is it Difficult To Learn To Be A Barista?

You first need to know the learning curve when becoming a barista. Making a good cup of coffee requires careful attention to detail and a delicate touch—two things that take time and practice to perfect.

Is it Difficult To Learn To Be A Barista
Is it Difficult To Learn To Be A Barista?

However, that doesn’t mean that it’s impossible to learn. With patience and perseverance, anyone can master the art of making coffee.

To be a successful barista, you need to have the following:

  • Customer service skills
  • Be able to handle different types of customers
  • Be able to work quickly and efficiently under pressure 

Many essential skills for a barista can be learned on the job. However, the right people skills can help accelerate your career.

One of the best ways to learn barista skills is by doing.

If you want to become a barista, seeking employment in a coffee shop is the best way to start. This will allow you to see firsthand how experienced baristas make coffee and also give you a chance to perfect your skills. 

Yes, it won’t be easy initially, but you will get better results as time passes. And who knows? Maybe one day, you’ll even be the one teaching new baristas the ropes.

How Long Does It Take To Become A Good Barista?

Most people can learn to become a good barista with about 12 months of training and practical experience. Baristas with prior experience, or a natural aptitude for making coffee, can become an expert in 6 months or less.

The first step to becoming a good barista is to learn the basics of coffee making.

How Long Does It Take To Become A Good Barista
How Long Does It Take To Become A Good Barista?

This includes knowing how to grind the beans, measure the correct amount of water, and brew the coffee using the proper techniques. 

These skills can be learned by reading books or online articles, watching videos, or taking classes.

Once you have mastered the coffee brewing basics, you can move on to more advanced coffee techniques, such as making espresso-based beverages and creating latte art. 

With practice, you will develop your unique style and will be able to make fantastic coffee drinks that your friends and family will love.

Is It Hard To Become A Barista With No Experience?

In short, no! Baristas come from all walks of life with varying levels of experience—and there are many ways to learn the ropes if you’re starting from scratch. Of course, like any job, becoming a barista takes time, effort, and plenty of practice. 

But if you’re passionate about coffee and customer service, it’s doable.

Is It Hard To Become A Barista With No Experience
Is It Hard To Become A Barista With No Experience?

Here are three things to consider as you embark on your journey to becoming a barista.

Becoming a barista isn’t as complicated as you might think—it just takes research and time to learn (and maybe even a little bit of caffeine!). Anyone can become a great barista with the right attitude and helpful tips. 

Is A Barista A Good First Job?

The best first job depends on your skills, interests, and goals. A barista position can be a good starting point for those interested in working in the service industry or a customer-focused role. It can also provide an excellent opportunity to learn about coffee production and brewing methods.

Being a barista is that it is more than just making coffee.

Is A Barista A Good First Job
Is A Barista A Good First Job?

Sure, anyone can make a cup of coffee, but being a barista is much more. To be a successful barista, you need to have customer service skills, handle different types of customers, and work quickly and efficiently under pressure. 

Is Being A Barista Stressful?

It can depend on the barista’s individual experience and what type of establishment they work in. However, some potential stressors that baristas may encounter include long hours, dealing with demanding customers, and working quickly under pressure.

Regarding customer service skills, you need to smile and be friendly no matter what type of customer you are dealing with.

It would help if you took orders quickly and accurately so you do not hold up the line.

Is Being A Barista Stressful
Is Being A Barista Stressful?

This can be difficult if you are having a tough day or the customer is being rude, but it is essential to remember that the customer is always right. 

Being a barista can be a stressful job.

You’re constantly dealing with customers, ensuring that their orders are correct, and trying to keep up with the demand. It can be easy to get overwhelmed, especially during busy times. 

The Bottom Line

The most important thing for anyone wanting to become a barista is to have a passion for coffee and be willing to learn. Once those skills are mastered, you can move on to more advanced techniques. 

With practice, you will develop your unique style.

Baristas come from all walks of life with varying levels of experience, so it is doable for anyone to become one with the right attitude and these helpful tips.

Mark

G'day from Australia! I'm Mark, the Chief Editor of Portafilter. I'm super passionate about everything coffee-related and love to spend endless hours mastering pulling the perfect shot on my Breville Barista Express. Follow on: Linkedin and Facebook.

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