How to Write a Barista Cover Letter (With Tips and Example)

Updated 30 September 2022

A barista is a professional who serves customers in a coffee shop or food service environment. When applying for this role, you can use your cover letter can provide potential employers with information about your skills, experience and qualifications. Developing an effective cover letter can support your resume and increase your chances of a successful application. In this article, we explain how to write a cover letter for a barista position through a step-by-step guide, some tips, a template and an example letter.

What is a barista cover letter?

A barista cover letter is the part of the application process where you describe your interest in the position and your relevant qualifications. For a barista, this cover letter includes your past work in customer service or food service environments and your knowledge of creating coffee or speciality drinks. Your cover letter supplements and supports your resume, providing greater detail and conveying your unique value as a candidate.

How to write a barista cover letter

If you want to write a cover letter that supports your resume and increases your chances of becoming a barista, follow these six steps:

1. Address the recipient properly

Properly addressing the recipient at the beginning of your cover letter can convey your interest, detail and professionalism. Start with a header containing your contact information, such as your full name, primary phone number and email address. When possible, address the letter using the hiring manager's last name with the correct title (Ms/Mr/Miss/Mrs/Dr). You can often find this in the job listing or on the company website. If you can't find an exact name, use a general greeting like Dear Hiring Manager.

2. Express interest

A cover letter is your opportunity to express your interest in the role and explain what factors inspired you to apply. Begin by stating your desired position and the organisation's name to show that you wrote the letter for the specific role and application. Mention specific aspects of the role that align with your goals or skills. For a barista role, you can include information about the work environment or any special processes that the organisation uses. Describing why you chose this job listing can help you align yourself with the values and duties of the role.

3. Provide an objective

Include a brief statement detailing your goals and expectations for the role. This section explains your long-term and short-term career goals and how you feel the specific position can improve your skills, qualifications and performance. Common objectives in a barista cover letter include developing customer service skills, maintaining safety and developing technical skills.

4. Explain your experience

In the body paragraphs of your cover letter, use specific examples, duties and situations from your past work experience to convey your knowledge and contributions as a candidate. Begin with your current or most recent role, and describe your daily tasks and any notable accomplishments or encounters. When possible, include examples and skills that relate to your desired role, and use data or facts to support your claims and convey your abilities. If you have experience in a barista or food service role, discuss examples and tasks related to food safety, customer service and preparing speciality items.

5. List your skills

In addition to your experience and performance, include a few sentences mentioning your most relevant skills. You can use examples and experiences to convey your abilities and level of knowledge. Here are some common barista skills to include in your cover letter:

customer service
food safety
sanitation
communication
organisation
problem solving
flexibility
interpersonal skills

6. Summarise your qualifications

Use the conclusion of your cover letter to summarise your qualifications and value as a candidate. Begin by thanking the reader for their time and consideration and restating your interest in the specific role and company. Next, use one or two sentences to restate your level of experience, knowledge and accomplishments and align yourself as a capable and valuable candidate. Reinforcing your strongest skills and summarising your overall suitability for the role can convey your confidence and attention to detail and leave a positive impression on the hiring manager.

Tips for writing a cover letter

Follow these tips to improve your cover letter's structure, writing and impact:

Use keywords. When writing a cover letter for a specific position, review the job listing to identify and incorporate keywords that accurately reflect your abilities and may attract the hiring manager's attention.
Proofread. After writing your cover letter, proofread your document to identify and correct any mistakes in your grammar, spelling or information. Ensuring a clear and accurate cover letter conveys your attention to detail and work ethic to potential employers.
Show your value: Use specific examples, metrics and accomplishments to convey your unique value and contributions as a candidate. When possible, quantify your tasks and impact from your last role, and show how your performance can transfer to the new position.

Cover letter template

Here is a template that you can use to guide the structure and content of your cover letter and improve your application:

[First name] [Last name], [Degree or certification if applicable]

[Phone number] | [Email address] | [City], [State] [Postcode]

[Date]

[Company name]

Dear Hiring Manager,

[Express excitement for the position, including the role title and the company name]. [Introduce yourself by explaining why you're applying for the job, how the job aligns with your career goals and what specifically draws you to the company].

[Explain your relevant experience and qualifications without repeating what's in your resume]. [Highlight one or two relevant achievements with facts and data when possible]. [Explain why you'd be a good fit for the company]. [Address any employment gap or career transition (optional)].

[Express gratitude]. [Summarise qualification]. [Restate interest in role]. [Call to action with availability and preferred contact method].

[Complimentary close],

[Signature]

Related: Free Cover Letter Templates

Barista cover letter example

Here is an example you may reference to help you understand the tone, organisation and content of an effective barista cover letter:

Brenna Erin
+61 3 9333 1249 | B.Erin@email.com | Melbourne, Victoria
20 May 2022

Bean Roasters Café

Dear Ms. Richards,

I am writing to express my interest in the position of barista at Bean Roasters Café. My extensive experience and knowledge from over five years in the food service industry, together with my passion for coffee and speciality drinks, would make me a valuable addition to your team.

In my current role as a Food Service Associate at Bobby's Lunch Spot, I work to promote a friendly environment for customers and guests. My daily tasks include taking orders, preparing food and ensuring proper sanitation for food safety and a clean dining environment. I regularly communicate with colleagues, managers and customers to address the issues that arise. My ability to connect with customers through customer service and interpersonal skills has allowed me to maintain a pleasant environment for many regular customers and other guests.

My skills include many useful customer service and food safety abilities, such as active listening, verbal communication, interpersonal connections and problem-solving. I also offer traits such as flexibility, dedication and a positive attitude. In my last role, I received ten positive customer survey reviews and had multiple connections with regular customers.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to learning more about the position of barista and the atmosphere of Bean Roasters Café. My experience, skills and ability to connect with customers make me more than equipped to fit the role and contribute to the positive experience of the café. You can contact me by phone on +61 3 9333 1249 with questions or to arrange an interview.

Yours faithfully,

Brenna Erin