Question Overview: Waitresses are often required to deal with many tasks at once. During rush hours, one server might have four to five tables at the same time. The ideal candidate will understand the importance of time management and presenting each patron with a pleasant demeanor. Focus on the applicant's tone when discussing how they would handle a busy shift. Are they able to stay calm under pressure?
Sample Answer: I believe that I am qualified for this position because I have experience serving a variety of different types of customers and I am always willing to learn new things. I am detail-oriented and I am able to multitask during busy shifts.
Question Overview: As a waitress, you will often be faced with difficult situations. The ideal candidate will be able to discuss a time they had to deal with a difficult customer and how they handled the situation. Focus on the applicant's ability to remain calm and positive during the experience.
Sample Answer: In my last position, I once assisted a patron who was upset about her meal as she felt it was cold. I had the chef remake her meal, and I gave her a free appetizer to ensure that she had a satisfactory experience.
Question Overview: As a waitress, you will have to deal with many different types of people. The ideal candidate will show how they would handle a situation where a customer is upset about an incorrect order. Focus on the applicant's ability to remain calm and offer solutions to the problem.
Sample Answer: If a customer was upset about an incorrect order, I would first apologize and ask if they would like me to remake the meal. If they were still upset, I would offer them a free appetizer or dessert to make up for the inconvenience.
Question Overview: This is a great question to ask a waitress because it will allow you to gauge their values and how they handle situations. The ideal candidate will have a strong sense of integrity and will be able to explain how they have demonstrated this trait in their past jobs.
Sample Answer: Integrity means being honest with others and myself. I always strive to be truthful and honest in my interactions with others.
Question Overview: As a waitress, you will often be required to solve problems for customers. The ideal candidate will be able to think quickly and offer solutions to issues. Focus on the applicant's ability to remain calm and think of a solution to a problem.
Sample Answer: I would first ask the customer if they are okay with the situation and if they need anything else. If they are not satisfied, I would ask them what they would like me to do. I would then try to find a solution that works for both parties.
Question Overview: In the restaurant industry, there are many different types of people. Some are pleasant, while others can be difficult to deal with. The ideal candidate will show how they would handle a bad customer and how they would resolve the situation. Focus on the applicant's ability to remain calm and their ability to listen to the patron's concerns.
Sample Answer: I would always make sure to listen to the customer's concerns and offer them a solution. I would also make sure to document any negative feedback so that I could share it with my manager.
Question Overview: As a waitress, you will often be under pressure to perform at a high level. The ideal candidate will demonstrate how they handle stressful situations. Focus on the applicant's ability to remain calm and think clearly when discussing a time when they were under stress.
Sample Answer: I once had a customer who was upset about his meal, and he wanted to speak with the manager. I remained calm and explained that I could not get the manager at that time, but I would relay his concerns.
Question Overview: This is a great question to ask a waitress because it will allow you to gauge their interest in the company. The ideal candidate will be able to give you a few reasons why they want to work for your restaurant. Focus on the applicant's enthusiasm and their ability to be a team player.
Sample Answer: I have always wanted to work for your restaurant because I have heard great things about it from my friends. I am excited to learn more about the company and get started.
Question Overview: As a restaurant manager, you want to know what might be a difficult adjustment for the applicant to work with you. The ideal candidate will be honest about their strengths and weaknesses. Focus on the applicant's ability to be honest about their shortcomings.
Sample Answer: I would need some time to adjust to working with a new manager as I have worked for the same manager for the past five years.
Question Overview: Waitresses are often required to upsell items to customers. The ideal candidate will have experience with offering an upcharge to a patron, and they will know how to handle a situation if the patron declines the offer. Focus on the applicant's confidence in their ability to sell an upcharge.
Sample Answer: I would ask the customer if they would like to add a side of fries or onion rings to their meal. If they decline, I would thank them for their business and move on to the next table.
Question Overview: In the restaurant industry, it is common for waitresses to be bilingual as many patrons speak a language other than English. The ideal candidate will be able to speak at least two languages fluently and will be able to communicate with a variety of people. Focus on the applicant's ability to speak a second language and their experience using the language in a professional setting.
Sample Answer: I speak fluent Spanish and have worked with Spanish-speaking customers in the past. I have also worked with non-English speaking customers in the past.
Question Overview: The applicant's response to this question will allow you to gauge their interest in the company and whether or not they have researched the business. The ideal candidate will be able to discuss their interest in the company and how they found out about the position.
Sample Answer: I have been a fan of Longhorn Steakhouse for many years, and I am excited to be a part of the team. I found out about this position from a friend who works here.
Question Overview: This question is open-ended, so the applicant can discuss any experience they have that makes them a good fit for the position. The ideal candidate will highlight their positive attitude, their ability to work well with others, and their desire to learn new skills.
Sample Answer: I am a hard worker who is always willing to learn new tasks. I have experience working in a fast-paced environment and can handle stress well.
Question Overview: The ideal candidate will have a variety of experience serving customers in a variety of settings. Focus on the applicant's ability to provide specific examples of their experience and how they have handled difficult situations.
Sample Answer: I have experience serving customers in a variety of settings, including restaurants, coffee shops, and bars. I have worked with customers who are in a hurry and those who are more relaxed. I am able to handle difficult situations by remaining calm and finding solutions to problems.
Question Overview: In the restaurant industry, there are many different types of jobs that require a server to handle alcohol. The ideal candidate will have experience dealing with intoxicated customers and know how to handle them in a safe manner. Focus on the applicant's ability to stay calm and confident in their abilities.
Sample Answer: I would ask the patron if they would like me to call them a cab or if they would like me to help them get home. I would also make sure that they are aware of the location of their car and that they are safe before leaving them.
Question Overview: As a waitress, you will be required to deal with many stressful situations. The ideal candidate will have the ability to remain calm and handle problems in a positive manner. Focus on the applicant's ability to remain calm and their ability to solve problems.
Sample Answer: I always take a deep breath and remind myself that I am capable of handling any situation. I am able to remain calm when dealing with stressful situations and always look for solutions to problems.
Question Overview: This is a fun question to ask a waitress candidate. The ideal candidate will have a positive attitude and will be able to think of three wishes that they would like to see come true. Focus on the applicant's tone and how they respond to this question.
Sample Answer: I would wish for world peace, for my family to be healthy, and for my friends to be happy.
Question Overview: The applicant's response to this question will allow you to gauge their experience in the restaurant industry. The ideal candidate will have a positive attitude and will be able to discuss their previous experience in a positive light.
Sample Answer: I have been working in the restaurant industry for six years. I have experience serving customers, taking orders, and handling cash transactions.
Question Overview: As a waitress, you will be required to work in a variety of different environments. The ideal candidate will have experience working in a fast-paced environment and will be able to handle stressful situations. Focus on the applicant's ability to handle pressure and how they would handle a stressful situation.
Sample Answer: I am looking for a position that is fast-paced and allows me to interact with many different people. I am always looking for new challenges and opportunities to learn new skills.