I went Starbucks to pick up a cup of coffee the other day and learned something new. It was between the morning crowd and lunch so there was no line.
I ordered my drink as usual and unlike busy time of the day, the cashier didn’t ask for my name. As I walked over to the pick up section, the barista asked for my name.
So I told him “Austin” (since I get my name misspelled often) and asked what for since there was no one else. I assumed that they ask for the name to make sure drinks don’t get mixed up when they are busy, but it turns out that asking the name was the protocol.
The barista replied that they have to ask for the name because they are to go by N.E.C.
What’s “N.E.C.” I asked and he explained, “N (name)… E (eyes)… and C (connect)!”
They are trained to call out the NAME and make EYE contact as they CONNECT the drink to the right person. Then, it dawn on me why they would shout, “Austin… here’s your Grande Americano!”
I think we should learn from Starbucks who are doing a great job training their employees to be more connected to customers. All Christians should have this attitude as we are trying to reach unbelieving people… get to know them personally and connect them to Christ!
Have a blessed week and N.E.C.!