Being a server is an excellent occupation that provides an incredible opportunity to engage with customers and generate additional income through flexible working hours. Whether you are in pursuit of a full-time server position or seeking a part-time gig to supplement your finances, working as a waiter or waitress can be an enjoyable and fulfilling endeavor.
Here are 20 interview questions and answers to help you prepare.
Why did you apply for this position of a waiter or waitress?
This particular server interview question is so prevalent that it may likely be the first one you encounter. Present two or three compelling reasons for desiring to pursue a career as a server. Emphasize aspects that substantiate your potential as a valuable employee, your aptitude for on-the-job learning, your ability to satisfy customers, and your commitment to providing the exceptional service that hiring managers seek from their wait staff.
Potential response:
Being a server grants me the opportunity to establish meaningful connections with diverse individuals, which I find immensely gratifying. Moreover, it facilitates rapid skill acquisition and personal growth, enabling me to consistently deliver exemplary service that fulfills the expectations of every dining patron.
What is your greatest strength that is effective for the role of a server?
This particular server interview question is open-ended and may seem intimidating. It’s important to remember that the interviewer is seeking specific information. They want to understand you better and gauge your level of experience. They are interested in discovering your areas of expertise and identifying areas where you may need assistance. Additionally, share details about your experience and recount a time when you went the extra mile to ensure a customer’s satisfaction.
Potential response:
Throughout my decade of serving individuals, I have consistently demonstrated promptness and attentiveness, never leaving a table unattended for an extended period. I am fully committed to providing a superior level of service and fostering a collaborative environment where everyone works together as a cohesive team.
What do you think is your biggest weakness?
When discussing your weaknesses, it’s important to be transparent, but it’s advisable not to dwell on them for too long. If you happen to mention tardiness or missing shifts during an interview, it can abruptly terminate the conversation. Instead, you can present your “weakness” in a positive light, emphasizing how it demonstrates admirable qualities such as good character and the determination to excel in your role.
Personal response:
Personally, I strive to accomplish multiple tasks simultaneously because I genuinely care about ensuring every customer’s happiness, comfort, and well-being. However, I acknowledge the necessity of learning to pace myself and effectively prioritize tasks to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Do you have any prior experience as a server?
When it comes to waiter/waitress interviews, this server interview question is relatively straightforward, and your potential employer will appreciate your honesty and directness. It’s important to remember that you can still secure a server position even without prior experience as long as you exude confidence and professionalism.
Potential response:
I have a background of over six years in the field of serving. Throughout my tenure, I have had the privilege of catering to a diverse range of customers. Along the way, I have gained proficiency in various point-of-sale (POS) systems, mastered the art of table setup, and acquired knowledge in crafting specific beverages. Moreover, I have always been keen on fostering a collaborative and supportive team environment.
What do you love most about being a waiter or waitress?
This is an incredible opportunity to showcase your immense passion for working as a waitress. Restaurants often experience a high turnover rate, which is why they seek individuals who genuinely adore their job and possess an outstanding attitude. Above all, they are in search of servers who consistently strive to provide their customers with the most exceptional service imaginable.
Potential response:
I take great delight in being a server as it allows me to engage with people, think quickly on my feet, and uncover a new approach to enhancing my service every single day. Witnessing the radiant smiles and pure enjoyment on customers’ faces brings me immense satisfaction. The dynamic nature of the job keeps me engaged, and there is always an endless array of tasks to tackle when you work as a server.
Is there anything you despise about being a waiter or waitress?
While it may appear as a tricky interview question, it serves as an opportunity to understand your perspective and how you handle challenges in the serving profession. It’s important to be honest and showcase your ability to navigate such situations effectively.
Potential response:
Personally, one aspect of serving that I find challenging is dealing with customers who seem impossible to satisfy. It can be disheartening when any customer leaves unhappy. However, I always strive to discover ways to turn the situation around and ensure their satisfaction, aiming to leave a positive impression. By actively listening to their concerns, empathizing with their perspective, and offering solutions or alternatives, I make genuine efforts to address their dissatisfaction.
Tell us about a time when you were faced with a difficult conflict. Also, elaborate on how you resolved the issue.
Every server will inevitably encounter a challenging customer. During your interview, it is important to showcase how you handle such situations. Share an experience where you dealt with an angry or dissatisfied customer and highlight the steps you took to resolve the issue.
Potential response:
On one occasion, I had the responsibility of serving a large group of 15 individuals, each with complex drink orders. Unfortunately, our bar was understaffed, and the kitchen was short of a few line cooks. However, I took it upon myself to ensure that the kitchen was well-prepared for the influx of orders. Additionally, I personally crafted some of the drinks at the bar. In the end, my ability to handle the rush in a highly professional manner earned me gratitude from my manager.
Why do you want to work with us?
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Exceptional waiters and waitresses possess the ability to excel in any dining establishment. Therefore, during your interview, it is essential to highlight your specific interest in working for this particular restaurant. Articulate two or three compelling reasons why you are drawn to this establishment, as it demonstrates your thorough research and compatibility. Managers seek employees who display enthusiasm towards their work.
Potential response:
This esteemed restaurant boasts the finest culinary offerings in the neighborhood, and I genuinely relish the experience of dining here. The deep-rooted affection I hold for the food and ambiance will undoubtedly radiate in my interactions with the valued patrons.
Other than waiting tables, what other experiences do you have?
Some dining establishments expect their staff to take on various responsibilities beyond serving customers, such as creating delectable desserts, concocting occasional cocktails or mixed drinks, and setting tables. They may inquire about your proficiency in these additional tasks typically performed by servers. Therefore, it is essential to communicate your past experiences involving diverse duties.
Potential response:
During my previous employment, I specialized in preparing sundaes, crafting simple yet delightful desserts, and assisting the bartenders by creating occasional cocktails. Furthermore, I possess practical experience in bartending. In addition to these skills, I am also good at table setting. Working for a catering company, this was an integral part of my role. Moreover, I had the opportunity to enhance my expertise as a sommelier.
Tell me about a time you had an angry guest and how you dealt with it.
Encountering displeased customers is a common occurrence for any server. When interviewing, it’s important to demonstrate your ability to handle such situations professionally. Recall a specific incident where a customer expressed anger, and explain how you successfully diffused the situation. If you haven’t encountered such a scenario, briefly outline your approach to dealing with such situations.
Potential response:
I once encountered a situation where a customer became displeased due to their steak being improperly cooked. Upon receiving their complaint, I responded calmly, assuring them that I would gladly take the dish back to the kitchen and ensure it was cooked to their satisfaction.
How can you contribute to our team and make it better?
This server interview question provides an opportunity for you to showcase your unique skills and qualities. When faced with this interview question, impress them with your team-oriented mindset. Most employers seek individuals who actively contribute to the team and elevate the overall enthusiasm. Be prepared to articulate how you can seamlessly integrate into the team and highlight your exceptional abilities.
Potential response:
As a diligent server, my utmost priority is to ensure every guest feels genuinely welcomed. I consistently maintain a positive outlook, which positively influences every aspect of my work. This exemplary approach resonates with fellow servers, thus fostering a positive environment for everyone.
Have you ever used a POS system or taken payments. Tell us what type of payments have you taken previously?
Servers will be responsible for managing monetary transactions, processing payments, and utilizing point of sale (POS) systems. Elaborate on your experience in handling payments, providing comprehensive details. Describe your specific encounters with POS systems and your proficiency in accepting various payment methods.
Potential response:
Throughout my career, I have successfully managed credit card payments, cash transactions, and gift card redemptions. I possess extensive familiarity with diverse POS systems and software solutions. Additionally, I have a remarkable aptitude for quickly grasping the operational intricacies of these systems. In my previous role, I actively contributed to training new employees and frequently offered assistance in resolving common issues they encountered.
You might be required to work for long hours? Are you comfortable with being on your feet all day?
Engaging in serving can be physically demanding as it entails constant movement throughout the day. However, you approach this server interview question with a positive mindset so that you can confidently attest to your prior work experience.
Potential response:
Having worked lengthy shifts in the past, I am no stranger to being on my feet for extended periods. In my previous role, I embraced the opportunity to remain active throughout the day. Being a person with abundant energy, I thrive on continuous movement. Consequently, the prospect of working long shifts does not faze me, as I have become accustomed to such demands.
Do you think you can handle multiple orders at the same time?
Restaurants can become quite bustling, requiring you to adeptly manage the rush. When confronted with this server interview question, it is essential to be prepared with concrete examples.
Potential response:
I excel in handling big gatherings and managing multiple tables simultaneously. I maintain meticulous records of all the orders, employing a systematic approach to jotting them down, which facilitates easier tracking of every detail. I make it a point to personally visit each table and ensure that every guest’s needs are met.
If you are hired by us, what do you expect your daily roles and responsibilities will be?
Managers are seeking assurance that you possess a comprehensive understanding of the responsibilities associated with a standard server position. However, it is essential to recognize that not all server roles are identical. Therefore, it is crucial for you to thoroughly review the entire job posting to familiarize yourself with the specific expectations and requirements of the servers they are seeking.
Potential response:
Upon careful examination of the job description provided, it explicitly states that your duties would entail waiting tables, taking orders, serving food, and utilizing the POS system. Additionally, it highlights the significance of table setting and preparatory tasks.
Why is it important to maintain a safe workplace? How will you contribute to a safe work environment for yourself and others?
Ensuring safety is of utmost significance within a restaurant setting. Consequently, certain managers may inquire about this matter. Prepare yourself to respond confidently to this server interview question, while elaborating the level of safety measures you uphold.
Potential response:
I am always careful with my steps, meticulously choosing comfortable and sturdy footwear, while refraining from wearing loose attire. Additionally, I maintain open lines of communication with fellow servers, ensuring their awareness whenever I navigate nearby with plates in hand.
Do you have any prior experience at making drinks for customers behind the bar?
Certain establishments may have a requirement for waitresses to prepare uncomplicated alcoholic drinks, while others may only expect servers to handle beers and wine. By asking applicants about this, you can assess their familiarity with a range of beverages and their level of expertise as a waitress.
Potential response:
Over the course of six years, I have gained valuable experience in serving both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. During my previous employment, I acquired the skills necessary to craft bloody marys and mimosas, which were served regularly during our brunch service.
How would you handle multiple tables during a busy shift?
Waitresses often face the challenge of handling multiple tasks simultaneously. In peak hours, a single server may have the responsibility of attending to four to five tables concurrently. The ideal candidate for this role will possess a keen understanding of the significance of time management and the ability to present a pleasant demeanor to each and every patron.
Potential response:
It would be my utmost priority to warmly greet all customers seated at each table and promptly take their drink orders. Following that, I would inquire about their preferred entrees. In the midst of bustling shifts, it is crucial to ensure that all patrons within a designated section receive equal attention and engagement. Hence, I would make it my topmost commitment to be readily available and accessible to them.
Do you have any experience accommodating customers with special diets, such as vegan and gluten-free needs?
Within the restaurant industry, there exists a wide array of allergens and unique dietary restrictions that individuals adhere to. Consequently, it becomes imperative for waitresses to possess the knowledge and skills to accommodate such customers effectively. An exceptional candidate would possess experience in identifying the constituents of dishes featured on the menu and comprehending the dietary limitations associated with various regimens.
Potential response:
During my previous tenure as a waitress, I consistently emphasized the vegetarian or vegan options among the specials and extended my assistance in discovering dishes that align with specific dietary requirements. I am well-versed in offering substitutions to tailor a meal to meet the specific needs of each patron.
Why do you think teamwork is important for a restaurant to be successful?
In order for a restaurant to maintain its efficiency and productivity, it is crucial that all employees collaborate and function as a cohesive team to ensure seamless order management. The presence of waiters and waitresses who truly comprehend the significance of teamwork and its role in the success of a restaurant is paramount.
Potential response:
I firmly believe that teamwork holds immense importance in the context of a restaurant, especially considering the fast-paced and demanding nature of the environment. As a waitress myself, I have always deeply appreciated the support of my past colleagues, who would assist in delivering orders to tables when I was occupied with another task.
Conclusion
Stay on top of your game by being fully prepared for your waiter/waitress job. Here are some of the best 20 questions and their potential responses that will help you crack your upcoming interview.
