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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 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 will give you insight into the candidate's self-awareness and ability to be honest about their own strengths and weaknesses.
Sample Answer: My biggest strength is my ability to work well with others. My biggest weakness is that I sometimes get too involved in my work and forget to take a break.
Question Overview: This question will give you a better idea of what the candidate is looking for in a job. You will be able to see if the candidate is a good fit for the position and the restaurant.
Sample Answer: The responsibilities of this position include greeting guests, seating guests and taking orders. I would also be responsible for checking on tables to ensure that guests are satisfied with their meals.
Question Overview: This question will allow you to see how the candidate feels about working in a fast-paced environment versus a slower, more relaxed one. You will also be able to see if the candidate prefers a more casual or formal work environment.
Sample Answer: I prefer a fast-paced environment where I am able to interact with many different people throughout the day.
Question Overview: This question will show you how willing the candidate is to move to a new location. You want to hire someone who is willing to relocate if necessary.
Sample Answer: Yes, I am willing to relocate.
Question Overview: This question will allow you to see how the candidate works with others in a group setting. You will want to see if the candidate is a team player who works well with others or if they are more of a loner.
Sample Answer: I work well in teams because I know that it takes a team to get things done. I am always willing to help out and do my part.
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 how well the candidate works under pressure. You want to see how they handle themselves in a situation where they are not sure of the answer. You will also want to see if they are able to think on their feet and come up with a creative solution.
Sample Answer: I caught a 30-pound catfish when I was 12.
Question Overview: This question will help you determine if the candidate has previous experience working with food. It is important to make sure that the candidate is comfortable with the idea of handling food.
Sample Answer: I have worked with food before. I have worked as a server and a bartender, both of which require working with food.
Question Overview: This question is designed to see if the candidate has a passion for food and dining. You want someone who is excited about the menu and can talk about the restaurant's offerings in a way that makes customers want to try something new.
Sample Answer: I love the Spaghetti Factory's Chicken Alfredo. The sauce is creamy and flavorful, and the chicken is tender and juicy.
Question Overview: This question is designed to see how the candidate interacts with others. You want to know if they are generally well-liked and respected by their peers.
Sample Answer: My friends would say that I'm a hard worker who is always willing to help out a friend.