How to Answer: What makes an interviewee stand out, in your opinion?
Advice and answer examples written specifically for a Restaurant Manager job interview.
18. What makes an interviewee stand out, in your opinion?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know more about the aspects of an interviewee that impress you. You want to show a balance of being a sound decision maker, when it comes to hiring, without appearing to be a pushover or - the opposite - someone who is too difficult to please. List one unique thing you look for when interviewing. Make sure to express that you never go off of 'just a hunch' but instead, you look for specific qualities in an incumbent.
Written by Rachelle Enns
Entry Level
"If you are new to hiring, here are some items to look for when vetting new employees:
- Existing knowledge of the business, or company's vision
- Strong references
- Strong tenure in previous roles
- Positive language use vs. negative (IE: I can versus I can't)
- Willingness to learn or continue education and training
- Ability to take responsibilities for their mistakes
- Shows ambition and interest in their professional future
- Ability to wear many hats and take on new responsibilities
- Knows how they like to be recognized for a job well done"
Written by Rachelle Enns
Answer Example
"To me, a stand out interviewee is someone who has fully researched the background of the restaurant, our menu, and the workplace culture. If they come prepared for the interview, they are showing me that they are engaged in the process and excited about the opportunity."
Written by Rachelle Enns
Experienced
"In my opinion, how the person shows up dressed for the interview, says it all. I am looking for someone who shows pride in their appearance and looks like they want to be there. Also, before any interview, I give clear instructions to the future interviewee. If they follow those steps, it shows me they can clearly follow instruction and pay attention to detail. These instructions include coming to the interview with references in hand, a copy of their ProServe certificate, and a cover letter."
Written by Rachelle Enns