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 question is a simple one to ask, but it is important to understand the applicant's experience. You want to hire someone who has some experience serving tables. If they have never worked in a restaurant before, they may not be the best fit for your establishment.
Sample Answer: I've been a server at a local restaurant for the past year. I'm looking for a new job because I'm moving out of state.
Question Overview: This is a question to determine how long the applicant has been in the workforce. If they have been out of the workforce for a long time, they may not be accustomed to the current job market.
Sample Answer: I have been in the army for six years. I am looking forward to getting back into civilian life and working in the food service industry.
Question Overview: This is a fun question that allows you to see how the applicant views themselves. A good answer should be positive and should not be a negative stereotype.
Sample Answer: I would be a cat. They are independent, but they are also affectionate.
Question Overview: This question is designed to test the applicant's interpersonal skills. It is important that your candidate has the ability to resolve conflict in a positive way. The answer to this question will also give you an idea of how they handle pressure.
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 one. The applicant should be able to handle difficult situations in a professional manner. If they are unable to do so, they may not be the right fit for your restaurant.
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 tests the applicant's ability to think on their feet. You want to see how they will handle a crisis. A good answer will show that they will take responsibility and find a solution. They may have to ask for help, but they should be able to handle the situation.
Sample Answer: I would apologize to the customers and ask them to be patient while I clean up the mess. Then I would find someone to help me so I can get back to work.
Question Overview: This is a question to test the applicant's ability to provide examples of their past experiences. The ideal candidate should be able to provide a story that highlights their ability to provide exceptional service.
Sample Answer: I was working at a restaurant in my hometown. A regular customer came in and ordered a steak. It was undercooked, so I offered to cook it longer. He was very grateful and left a generous tip.
Question Overview: This question is a simple way to gauge the applicant's level of education. If they are a high school student, you may not want to hire them. If they are a recent college graduate, you may not want to hire them. You may also ask about their education if they are applying for a managerial position.
Sample Answer: I have a bachelor's degree in business administration.
Question Overview: This question is a test of your applicant's self-confidence. You are looking for someone who is confident in their abilities and can articulate why they are the best candidate for the job. If they lack confidence, they may not be the right choice.
Sample Answer: I have a lot of experience in food service. I have been a server for three years and have been a cook for two years. I'm also a student at the local community college and am studying to be a chef.
Question Overview: This question is a test of the applicant's work ethic. You want to hire someone who is willing to work hard and put in extra hours when needed. If they are not willing to work overtime, they may not be the right fit for your establishment.
Sample Answer: I'm willing to work overtime if it is needed. I understand that sometimes it is necessary to get the job done.