The Starbucks Experience - Essay Example

It provides a background of Starbucks’ growth from humble origins to a household name globally as a result of their amazingly successful management philosophy. The book states five guiding principles for turning ordinary into extraordinary whether one is a small business owner or a multi-million dollar company. Based on facts in the book, during the company’s peak, Starbucks’ success equated to five new stores every day – 365 days each year worldwide (Michelli 7). In spite Starbuck’s amazing growth, the company keeps on maintaining their reputation for quality and a special customer experience.

This is an indication of how well the company understands globalization and international business. With coffee shops in over 35 countries, Starbucks has proven that its principles transcend cultural barriers. There are many tips from the book that will benefit Human Resource professionals as well as supervisors and managers of companies and organizations. The book sites, for example, the problem of employees’ lifeless customer service. The book does not offer the usual one-sided approach to good customer service, but rather gives the inside secrets based on a model of success.

From each of the five principles, Michelli provides practical methods for the reader to absorb and apply as appropriate in his or her specific work situation. For example, little acts as simple as reminding employees to be “litter picker-uppers” (34) would be an innovative idea for some businesses. Companies never know what catches the eye of their clients or customers, so they must pay attention to little details inside the store. These small things may leave customers walking away with poor lasting impressions.

Michelli further points out, “Consistency, ritual, routine, community and service recovery are key. If you and your business succeed at delighting every person you work with, you will be a beloved company.” (108) Additionally, the book explains problems