How to Be a Good Customer

Working in the food service industry, and particularly in a restaurant with a drive-through, has taught me quite a bit about what happens behind the scenes of the places I eat. It has also taught me some things that separate good customers from bad customers. So far, I've worked mostly in the drive-through, so most of my observations will be taken from that standpoint. With that in mind, I present

How to Be a Good Customer:

1. Know What You Want: You don't have to know exactly what you want, but you should have a general idea to work with. If you don't know what you want, that's ok too, but be willing to stand to the side while you think about it. Don't hold up the line by trying to think at the register.
2. Have Your Money Ready: This is more of a drive-through problem. If the line has stopped and you have some time in your car, pull your money out. Can't remember the exact total? Just have your wallet ready.
3. Correct Mistakes Gently: If we make a mistake with your order, let us know so we can fix it. But please don't raise your voice or start throwing blame around. Sometimes things just slip through the cracks during all the hustle and bustle of preparing food, especially during the lunch rush. 
4. Leave Yourself Plenty of Time: If you're in a rush, we can't make an exception to get you out the door quicker. It's first come, first serve. Even if the person in front of you has a large or complicated order. This rule is especially true if you are placing a large or complicated order. It's going to take longer than normal.
5. Want, Don't Need: Admittedly, this one doesn't have a whole lot to do with being a good or bad customer, but it's a pet peeve of mine. You want your combo meal with an extra large frozen fancy drink -- you don't need it. Say so.