Mastering Waiter and Waitress Interviews: Expert Tips for Success

Job interviews for positions as waiters and waitresses are crucial steps towards landing your dream job in the restaurant industry. To help you prepare and stand out in these interviews, we'll address the top five most common questions asked during these interviews and provide you with expert tips to craft fantastic answers. These answers will not only help you secure the job but also demonstrate your commitment, flexibility, and professionalism.

Waiter and Waitress Interviews Tips

1. What times can you work?

The first question that almost every restaurant asks is about your availability. Your response to this question is vital in determining whether you'll be a suitable candidate. To answer this question effectively, follow these three key steps:

- Be honest about your availability. Don't claim you can work times you can't, as this may lead to future issues.

- Demonstrate flexibility in your schedule. Restaurants prefer candidates who can work various shifts and weekends.

- Showcase commitment by emphasizing your willingness to work different times. Avoid discussing times you can't work; focus on what you can offer instead.

Mentioning availability for evenings, weekends, and school holidays can be an added advantage, but only if it aligns with your actual schedule.

2. "What do you do when you don't know the answer to a customer's question about the menu?"

When customers have questions about the menu, it's essential to respond professionally. Rather than immediately asking someone else or going to the kitchen, show your expertise in these ways:

- Assert that you know the menu well and study it thoroughly.

- Mention that you proactively seek answers to menu-related questions before customers ask them.

- If you have prior culinary knowledge or restaurant experience, highlight that experience to instill confidence in your ability to handle menu inquiries.

- In cases of exceptionally specialized questions, express your interest in finding the answer and deliver it promptly.

Avoid showcasing any gaps in your menu knowledge or overemphasizing the need to ask others.

3. How do you handle a customer complaint about the food?

Customer complaints are an inevitable part of the job. To address this question, follow these steps:

- Express your dedication to addressing customer complaints by actively listening to their concerns.

- Apologize sincerely when things go wrong and gather all necessary information.

- Assess the customer's needs and expectations, such as whether they want a replacement, a refund, or a different solution.

- Find a solution within the restaurant's policies, and mention that you're well-versed in these policies.

- Highlight your commitment to learning from each complaint and collaborating with colleagues to prevent future issues.

By following these steps, you'll showcase your professionalism and ability to handle customer complaints effectively.

4. How would you deal with an angry or upset customer?

Dealing with upset customers requires a three-step approach:

- Emphasize the importance of de-escalation techniques, such as speaking quietly and listening actively.

- Show genuine empathy towards the customer's concerns and issues.

- Find a resolution within the restaurant's policies and adhere to the guidelines set by your workplace.

Highlight your commitment to following restaurant policies and ensuring customer satisfaction.

5. What experience do you have of selling alcohol?

Whether you have extensive or limited experience with selling alcohol, you can provide a strong answer by:

- Demonstrating knowledge of popular cocktails and local alcohol-related laws.

- Showing familiarity with regulations related to the legal drinking age and any specific policies, such as "Challenge 25."

- Highlighting any relevant experience, even if it's from different settings, like bars or supermarkets.

End your response with your years of experience and express your commitment to responsible alcohol service.

Conclusion

Mastering interviews for waiter and waitress positions requires not only the right answers but also the ability to showcase your commitment, flexibility, and professionalism. By addressing these common interview questions with the tips provided, you'll be well-prepared to excel in your interview and increase your chances of landing your desired role.

Bonus: Questions to Ask the Interviewer

To leave a lasting impression on the interviewer, consider asking questions that show your genuine interest in the position and the restaurant:

- "What sets your restaurant apart from the competition?"

- "Can you tell me more about your vision for the restaurant?"

- "What, in your opinion, makes an outstanding waiter or waitress?"

- "Based on our discussion today, I'd like to learn more about [something mentioned in the interview]. Can you provide more details on that?"

These thoughtful questions demonstrate your engagement and genuine interest in the restaurant and the role, increasing your chances of leaving a positive impression on the interviewer. Good luck with your waiter or waitress interview!