Question Overview: This question will give you insight into the candidate's definition of hospitality and how they would apply it to their job. You want to see if they have a clear understanding of the concept and how it applies to the position.
Sample Answer: Hospitality is the act of providing service with a smile and making sure that your guests are comfortable and happy.
Question Overview: This question will show you how the candidate handles a situation that requires them to think on their feet. You will want to see if they can quickly assess the situation and determine the best course of action. For example, if a customer calls up and asks for a large order of fries, the hostess should ask if they would like to have it delivered or if they would like to pick it up.
Sample Answer: I would ask if they would like to pick up the order or have it delivered.
Question Overview: This question will help you determine how the candidate handles stress and pressure. You want to see how they handle themselves in a stressful situation.
Sample Answer: I take a deep breath and try to remain calm. I then assess the situation and take action.
Question Overview: This question is used to determine if the candidate is legally able to work in the country.
Sample Answer: I am 18 years old.
Question Overview: This question will allow you to see how the candidate views their own strengths and weaknesses. You will also be able to see if the candidate is willing to admit their weaknesses and how they plan to improve upon them.
Sample Answer: My strengths are my ability to multitask and my ability to work well under pressure. My weaknesses are that I can be a bit of a perfectionist and I have a hard time delegating tasks.
Question Overview: This question is designed to see how the candidate handles criticism and how they view their own abilities. You want to see if they are able to admit their shortcomings and explain how they plan to improve upon them.
Sample Answer: I sometimes have a hard time remembering names of people I meet. I am working on improving this by using a memory technique that my grandmother taught me.
Question Overview: This question will allow you to see how the candidate views their role in the restaurant. You want someone who is willing to go above and beyond to create a positive experience for customers.
Sample Answer: I will contribute to this work environment by creating a positive experience for guests. I will greet them with a smile and make sure they have everything they need.
Question Overview: This question is designed to see if the candidate has a flexible schedule. You will want to hire someone who is willing to work a variety of shifts and hours.
Sample Answer: I am available to work any shift, day or night.
Question Overview: This question is used to determine the candidate's eagerness to start working for you. You want someone who is willing to start as soon as possible, but you also want to make sure they are not so eager that they are not taking the time to make an informed decision.
Sample Answer: I would like to start as soon as possible.
Question Overview: This question will determine how the candidate handles a mistake. You want to see if the candidate is willing to admit their mistake and take responsibility for it. You also want to see if they are willing to go above and beyond to make sure the customer is satisfied.
Sample Answer: I would apologize to the customer and ask if they would be willing to wait a few minutes while I prepared their order.
Question Overview: This question is designed to see how the candidate thinks about the company as a whole. You want to see if they have a plan for how they can help the company grow.
Sample Answer: I would work on getting more customers to come in by advertising specials to different groups of people. I would also make sure that the hostesses are always friendly and welcoming.
Question Overview: This question will allow you to see how the candidate's personality aligns with the restaurant's brand. You want to hire someone who is passionate about their work and who will be able to bring that passion to the restaurant.
Sample Answer: I would be a musician because I love music and I love entertaining people. I would want to be a musician because it would be a great way to express myself and entertain others.
Question Overview: This question will help you determine if the candidate has experience in the food service industry. You will also want to make sure that the candidate has experience in a similar position.
Sample Answer: I have worked as a hostess for three years at a local restaurant.
Question Overview: This question will help you to determine whether the candidate is looking for a job or a career. You will want someone who is looking for a long-term position and who is willing to work hard to achieve their goals.
Sample Answer: I'm looking for a long-term position where I can learn and grow as a hostess.
Question Overview: This question will help you determine if the candidate has any interests that may interfere with their ability to perform their job. You want to make sure that the candidate is able to dedicate enough time to the position.
Sample Answer: I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, as well as reading and cooking.
Question Overview: This question will help you determine whether the candidate is looking for a job or a career. You will want to see that the candidate has a plan for their future and is not just looking for a job to pay the bills.
Sample Answer: I plan to attend college in the fall and study business. I would like to work in the restaurant industry while I am in school and then move on to a management position after graduation.
Question Overview: This question will test the candidate's math skills. You will want to see if they are able to use basic math skills in order to calculate the tip.
Sample Answer: I would multiply 15 by 200 and then divide that number by 100.
Question Overview: This question will allow you to see how the candidate feels about the restaurant and its history. It will also give you an idea of how well they know the restaurant.
Sample Answer: The Pappas family restaurants are known for their high quality food and exceptional customer service.
Question Overview: This question will help you determine whether the candidate has the experience necessary to perform the job. You will want to see that the candidate has experience working in a restaurant or hospitality setting, as well as any experience working with a team.
Sample Answer: I have worked as a hostess for three years. I have also worked as a server for two years and as a bartender for one year. I have worked in all of these positions at multiple restaurants.
Question Overview: This question will allow you to see how the candidate views their role in the company. You want to see if they are a team player and if they have a positive attitude about the company.
Sample Answer: I would like to contribute to the success of the restaurant by making sure that all guests have a great experience.