Question Overview: This question is to test the applicant's work history. You want to know how long they have been working, what they have done and what their experience is. You may also ask about their education or other skills.
Sample Answer: I have been working since I was 15 years old. I have experience as a cashier, sales associate and server.
Question Overview: This question is a test of the applicant's interpersonal skills. You want to know if they have a good relationship with their previous manager. You also want to know if they can speak positively about their previous manager. If they have a poor relationship with their previous manager, it could be a sign of future problems.
Sample Answer: My last manager was very understanding and gave me the opportunity to learn from my mistakes.
Question Overview: This question is similar to the previous one. It is a test of integrity. The applicant should be able to treat all customers equally, regardless of their race, gender, sexual orientation or any other social stigma. The answer to this question may also give insights into how the applicant would treat people with disabilities or other social stigmas and peculiarities. The server may rely on tips, but they are also your employee and should treat everyone with respect.
Sample Answer: I hope that doesn't happen. However, tips are only part of my pay. I have an obligation to serve everyone with the best service.
Question Overview: This is a classic interview question. The applicant should be prepared to discuss their strengths and weaknesses. A good answer will be honest and provide insight into how they will perform in your restaurant.
Sample Answer: I'm a hard worker who is always willing to learn. I'm not afraid to ask for help when I need it. My weakness is that I can get frustrated when things don't go as planned. I'm working on that.
Question Overview: This is a question of availability. You need to know how often the applicant will be able to work and for how long. You also want to know if they have other obligations that will interfere with their job. If they are only available on the weekends, you may need to hire someone else.
Sample Answer: I'm available every day after school until 6 p.m. I have a part-time job on Saturdays, but I'm free on Sundays.
Question Overview: This question is designed to see if the applicant has any interests that would interfere with their work. A good candidate will be able to balance their personal and professional lives. If they are unable to do so, they may not be a good fit for your establishment.
Sample Answer: I like to spend time with my family and friends. I also enjoy reading and watching movies.
Question Overview: This is a question of integrity. The applicant should be honest and not try to cover up their lack of knowledge. You want to know if they will be able to handle an emergency situation. If they are unable to handle the situation, you will need to know how they will respond.
Sample Answer: I hope that doesn't happen. However, tips are only part of my pay. I have an obligation to serve everyone with the best service.
Question Overview: This question is designed to see how the applicant will respond to a negative situation. The ideal candidate should be able to identify a specific situation and explain how they handled it. They should also be able to explain what they learned from the experience.
Sample Answer: I was dining out with my family and a waiter spilled a drink on my mom. I was upset at first, but I realized that it was an accident and the waiter was very apologetic. He even offered to pay for our meal. I appreciated his honesty and willingness to make things right.
Question Overview: This is a question that will help you determine if the applicant is a good fit for your establishment. If they are not familiar with your brand, they may not be the right choice. However, if they have a positive outlook on your business, they may be a great fit.
Sample Answer: I'm a student looking for a flexible job. Your restaurant has a great reputation, offers good food and is within walking distance of my dorm.
Question Overview: This is a question of integrity. The applicant should be willing to accept responsibility for their mistakes. If they are not, they may not be the right fit for your establishment.
Sample Answer: I hope that doesn't happen. However, tips are only part of my pay. I have an obligation to serve everyone with the best service.
Question Overview: This question is a great way to test the applicant's understanding of customer service. The applicant should be able to describe what good customer service is and how it can be achieved. This will give you a sense of how they view their role as a food server.
Sample Answer: I recognize how important customer satisfaction is for the brand, and I would do my best to listen to their concerns and find a creative solution to resolve the issues without getting angry or flustered.
Question Overview: This question is designed to test the applicant's work history. You want to see if they have a history of employment, and if they have held positions that are similar to the one you are offering. If they have not, you may want to ask why they are applying for a position that is so different from their previous work.
Sample Answer: I worked as a cashier at a local grocery store for two years.
Question Overview: This question is designed to test how long the applicant has been in the food industry. You want someone who has experience serving tables, but you also want someone who is not too experienced. Someone who has been serving tables for a long time may have developed bad habits that will be difficult to break. On the other hand, someone who has only served tables for a short time may not have developed the skills needed to excel in your establishment.
Sample Answer: I've been working in restaurants since I was 16. I know what it takes to be successful in this business.
Question Overview: This question is designed to see if the applicant has the ability to empathize with customers. A good food server should be able to sense when a customer is upset and take action to make them feel better. If they don't have a good answer to this question, it may show that they are not the right fit for your establishment.
Sample Answer: I had a customer who was upset about a recent breakup. I made sure she was comfortable and had everything she needed. She ended up leaving a big tip.
Question Overview: This question is used to test the applicant's knowledge of the industry. They should have some experience in the food service industry, even if it is not as a food server. If they have no experience, they may not be the best fit for your establishment.
Sample Answer: I've been a customer at restaurants since I was a kid. I've also worked at my mom's restaurant as a dishwasher and busboy.
Question Overview: This is a common question for servers. The answer to this question will reveal how the applicant will handle a stressful situation. You want to see how they will prioritize and manage their time. A good candidate will be able to prioritize their tables and still provide excellent service to both.
Sample Answer: I would make sure that I had enough time to take care of both tables. I would make sure that my guests were happy and satisfied with their service.
Question Overview: This question is designed to test the applicant's ability to handle stress and pressure. You want a candidate who can remain calm and focused in a high-pressure situation. A good answer will also show that the applicant is aware of your business hours and the peak times for your business.
Sample Answer: I hope that doesn't happen. However, tips are only part of my pay. I have an obligation to serve everyone with the best service.
Question Overview: This question is similar to the previous question, but it is more specific. The applicant should be able to describe a time when they had to think on their feet. This is an opportunity for them to show you how they will react in a difficult situation.
Sample Answer: I was once asked to serve a table of 12 people who were celebrating a birthday. I was able to quickly think of a solution and had the kitchen prepare a special cake for them.
Question Overview: This question is designed to see if the applicant is truly interested in the job. If they are not, they may not be as motivated to excel at work. You want someone who is excited about the opportunity to work for your restaurant.
Sample Answer: I've always wanted to be a food server. I love the atmosphere and interacting with people.