Answer:The answer to this question will reveal if the candidate will strive to increase sales rather than be complacent with every customer’s order. A waiter needs to be comfortable upselling and therefore must be aware of everything the restaurant offers so they can present their tables with options. You want your waitstaff to be friendly and social but also effective salespeople to help drive up your bottom line.
3: What can you do to help the restaurant be successful?
Answer:
You want your applicant to look beyond individual goals and consider organizational growth. A candidate should mention they give their diners great respect along with outstanding service. Waiters should aim to spread a positive reputation for the restaurant, leading their patrons to encourage others to dine there as well as keep their customers returning in the future. This will help drive business and help in the success of the establishment.
4: How would you handle a dissatisfied and potentially angry customer?
Answer:
A waiter should be able to maintain their calm composure while facing adversity with a potentially angry customer regardless of whether they made a mistake or not. You want your candidate to display that they are willing to help all people, even if they are unfriendly. This requires a waiter to be able to not take things personally and put their emotions aside when they are serving their customers.
5:Would you be able to pick up shifts with little notice when the restaurant is short-staffed?
Answer:
You are looking for a candidate who can be flexible with their hours in order to help the restaurant during times of need. When the establishment is full but there is limited staff, you want to have a waiter who can step in to contribute to the success of the place. This question will help you see if the candidate is willing to take on extra responsibilities to help others.
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6: Are you available to work long shifts?
Answer:
Waiting often requires working long hours while standing, and a good waiter must be able to deliver quality service without feeling fatigued. You can use this question to identify candidates who understand the job requirements and have the stamina and temperament for the role. A skilled waiter candidate should demonstrate an understanding of the role and flexibility with their time and schedule.
7: What is your experience with customer service, and how does that relate to this position?
Answer:
I have worked in customer service for three years, which has equipped me with strong interpersonal skills and the ability to handle various customer requests. This experience directly relates to the waiter position as it involves providing excellent customer service and ensuring a positive dining experience.
8:Describe your last dining experience and how it could have been improved.
Answer:
During my last dining experience, the food was delicious, but the service was a bit slow. It could have been improved by having more attentive waitstaff to ensure a quicker and smoother dining experience for the customers.
9: What do you know about our main competitors?
Answer:
I’ve researched your main competitors, and while they offer similar menus, your restaurant distinguishes itself with its unique ambiance and attention to detail. This sets you apart and provides a competitive edge in the market.
10:What are some food trends that you’ve recently noticed?
Answer:
Plant-based diets and sustainability are growing trends in the food industry. Many restaurants are now offering more vegetarian and vegan options, as well as sourcing their ingredients locally to reduce their environmental impact.
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