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 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 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 question is not to see if the applicant likes your food. Rather, it is to see if they have a sense of what your customers like. If they have a favorite dish, ask them why. You want to see if they can relate their personal tastes to your customer's preferences.
Sample Answer: I love the chicken parmesan. It's a classic dish that is always delicious.
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 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 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 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 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 question is designed to see how the applicant will handle physical demands. You need a food server that can stand for long periods of time and work in a fast-paced environment.
Sample Answer: I'm used to standing for long periods of time. I'm sure that I can handle whatever you throw at me.
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 see how the applicant will work with others. A good food server will be able to work with others to ensure that the restaurant runs smoothly. This question is also designed to see if the applicant has a sense of teamwork.
Sample Answer: I enjoy working with others. I'm a team player who is willing to pitch in wherever needed.
Question Overview: The golden rule is a concept that many religions and cultures have in common. It is a moral code that requires people to treat others as they would like to be treated. This question tests the applicant's moral compass. A good answer will show that they are willing to put others first and are not self-centered.
Sample Answer: Treat others as you would like to be treated.
Question Overview: This is a basic question that is asked to ensure that the applicant is legally eligible to work in the US.
Sample Answer: Yes, I am a US citizen.
Question Overview: This question is a test of the applicant's emotional intelligence. You want to know how they will react in stressful situations. The ideal candidate will be able to handle stressful situations with poise and grace. They should be able to think on their feet and find a solution to the problem.
Sample Answer: I'm a good problem solver, so 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: A good food server is a good host. They should be able to provide a warm welcome and make the customer feel at home. This question is designed to see how the applicant views hospitality and what they think it means.
Sample Answer: Hospitality means making the customer feel at home. I will greet them with a smile, offer them a menu and ask if they need anything else.
Question Overview: The purpose of this question is to see if the applicant understands the importance of customer service. The ideal candidate will have a few different ways to make a guest happy. This shows that they are creative and willing to go the extra mile to make your customers happy.
Sample Answer: I will listen to their concerns and find a creative solution to resolve the issues without getting angry or flustered. I will also treat them with respect and make sure they are comfortable.
Question Overview: This question will help you understand the applicant's motivation. If they are not motivated to work for you, they will not be motivated to work for you. You want to hire someone who is excited about your brand and is willing to work hard to succeed.
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 fun way to learn more about the applicant. It is also a good way to see how they view themselves. A good answer will be honest and show their true personality.
Sample Answer: I would be a banana because I am sweet on the outside but have a tough shell on the inside.