How to upgrade from a junior barista certificate to an intermediate one?

How to become a mid-level barista

Coffee is a popular drink among consumers, and becoming an excellent barista requires continuous learning and practice. The junior barista certificate is the first step to enter this industry, but if you want to be promoted to an intermediate barista, you need more efforts and skills improvement. This article will introduce how to improve yourself through the following aspects, so as to successfully be promoted to an intermediate barista.

1. Learn more about different types of coffee beans

As an intermediate barista, you need to have a deep understanding of the different types and origins of coffee beans. It is important to learn the characteristics of each bean, its taste, and what kind of food it is suitable for pairing with. You can expand your knowledge of various beans by taking professional training courses, reading relevant books, or communicating with other experienced baristas.

2. Master sophisticated extraction techniques

Before becoming an intermediate barista, you need to master various coffee extraction techniques, including drip, French press and espresso. Each method has its own unique operating steps and requirements, and only through continuous practice can you reach a proficient level. Taking professional training courses or asking senior baristas for advice are good ways to improve your skills.

3. Learn to make complex coffee drinks

Intermediate baristas need to be able to prepare complex coffee drinks. This includes understanding different types of milk foam, creating latte art, and adding other ingredients. You can improve your skills in this area by watching video tutorials, participating in competitions, or constantly trying in practice.

4. Enhance teamwork and communication skills

Becoming an intermediate barista also requires good teamwork and communication skills. In a work environment, you may work with other employees to complete tasks and need to communicate effectively with customers. Therefore, it is very important to learn to listen to others, coordinate and solve problems.

5. Participate in coffee competitions and training

Participating in coffee competitions and training is a great opportunity to improve yourself. By participating in competitions, you can learn from other excellent baristas and showcase your skills. At the same time, participating in professional training courses can also continuously update your knowledge and skills.

6. Continue to learn and practice

Becoming an intermediate barista doesn’t mean you’ve mastered all the skills. The industry is evolving rapidly, with new coffee beans, new brewing methods, and new and creative drinks emerging all the time. Therefore, continuous learning and practice are essential to stay competitive.

In short, if you want to be promoted to an intermediate barista, you need to improve your skills in all aspects. In-depth understanding of different types of beans, mastering superb extraction techniques, learning to mix complex drinks, enhancing teamwork and communication skills, and participating in competitions and training are all necessary conditions. The most important thing is to maintain an attitude of learning and practice and continuously improve your professional level.