32 Chipotle Interview Questions & Answers
1. How do you handle stress?
How to Answer
Are you someone who is able to handle stress on the job? How do you manage the stressful times? Talk to the interviewer about your ability to manage pressure in the workplace.
1st Answer Example
"I handle stress very well and when you call my references, they will attest to this fact. When I am under pressure on the job, I focus on the task at hand and make sure to not get distracted. Staying on deadline is very helpful and I will delegate when necessary to alleviate some stress."
2nd Answer Example
"Stress is part of any demanding job and I have learned to embrace it. I take good care of myself and prioritize my workload to maintain a healthy balance in my stress levels."
2. What is your favorite item from Chipotle?
How to Answer
This is more of a fun question we have thrown into the mix. Probably won't be asked at a real interview, but you really never know at Chipotle! The reason for a question like this, and you should be prepared for a random question about the company. Is they want to know if you are a customer or not. This plainly tells them if you enjoy Chipotle and you eat there.
1st Answer Example
"My favorite item is definitely a burrito bowl. I get white rice, chicken, corn salsa, and guac! It's my all-time favorite."
2nd Answer Example
"A chicken quesadilla! I know it's not exactly on the menu but I love ordering this."
3. Tell me about your experience in training and coaching others.
How to Answer
Coaching and training experience may not be required for this role, but they are abilities that are always valued by an employer. Briefly explain the experience that you do have in training, and coaching, in the workplace.
1st Answer Example
"In my last position, I trained new hires on how to use our applicant tracking system. It was a very cool experience because it showed me that I love to teach and train. I am good at explaining how things work. It required a lot of patience, but it helped me to recognize my leadership potential."
2nd Answer Example
"I have been a part of the interviewing and on-boarding team in numerous organizations. Whether I am training formally or not, I am always the go-to for shadowing and mentorship. It's something that I am really passionate about. I love to see others succeed and help them do so. I've done this in each company I've worked for and wouldn't have it any other way. "
4. What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
How to Answer
If you are a part of any organizations, sports teams or clubs, talk about your involvement. Share the role you play and your contribution as well as what you enjoy about it. If you enjoy other activities like writing, hiking or spending time with friends, talk about those too. This question gives the interviewer a chance to get to know you. They are interested in learning about your personality and what motivates you. If any of your outside activities relate to this position, definitely share the skills you have learned and the similarities.
1st Answer Example
"I spend a lot of my free time volunteering at the local animal shelter. I think that it is important to give back to your community, whenever possible."
2nd Answer Example
"I absolutely love to read in my free time, and spend as much time as I can doing that. I can be found reading anything from a 19th century piece of British literature to the latest dystopian fantasy novel. My absolute favorite thing to do is to travel and couple it with reading: on the beach, on the plane, or just read about the cool intricacies of the place I'm visiting."
5. Do you have reliable transportation?
How to Answer
Even if you're not expected to drive for the job, you will need to have some form of reliable transportation. If you take the bus or ride a bike, that works too! Simply share that you have the means to get to work consistently and on time.
1st Answer Example
"I have reliable transportation. My vehicle is well maintained and I am comfortable with the amount of travel required to get to your office every day."
2nd Answer Example
"I take public transit; however, I find it to be very reliable. I was late to work only once last year and that was due to a snow storm which stalled all of our employee's commute - including those with personal vehicles. Rest assured, I am reliable and will always come to work on time."
6. How many days were you absent from work last year?
How to Answer
A part of being a diligent employee is to ensure that you are always on time and present when expected. It's great to even be 10 minutes early rather than just showing up right on the dot. Talk to the interviewer about your attendance.
1st Answer Example
"I had zero unexcused absences last year. In total, I took 12 vacation days out of my 15 allotted days. I was sick just 2 and those were accompanied by a note from my Doctor. Once I was late due to a terrible snow storm and I always try to be 10 minutes early for my shift."
2nd Answer Example
"I cannot recall the exact number but I think it was around 3 days total. All absences were excused and with notice."
7. Tell me about a time when you had to lead a team. What was your biggest success factor?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to hear about a time that you led a team, with a positive outcome. Highlight for the interviewer the primary factors that made your leadership style a success. Your example could come from the workplace or perhaps a time when you led a group project during your post-secondary studies.
1st Answer Example
"Just last month I was asked to lead our day shift employees when my boss was away on sick leave. I took charge for two weeks and the experience was quite positive! I believe the biggest success factor was that I tried to emulate his leadership style and did ask his help when I wasn't sure what to do. I feel this experience really prepared me for a leadership role. I am excited to take on a team lead role again."
2nd Answer Example
"Our company had a contest last month to see who could up-sell the most menu add-ons, and I was asked to be our team lead for the challenge. I really enjoyed that responsibility and we ended up winning the reward in the end because my team increased sales by the highest percentage."
8. When a problem arises, what are your first reactions?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know if your reactions to problems reflect maturity and professionalism. How you react will greatly determine how you fit with their existing team.
Perhaps your computer crashes and you realize you may have just lost all of your hard work. Or maybe you are limited on time and have a deadline rapidly approaching. Demonstrate to the interviewer that you take a very methodical approach to problem solving, rather than reacting in an impulsive way when a problem occurs.
1st Answer Example
"When a major problem arises, my first instinct is to take a step back and absorb what just happened. I then go into "
2nd Answer Example
"I have taught myself to become much calmer with my first reactions when problems arise. Now, I will step back and review my options for solving the problem rather than allow myself to become frustrated."
9. How do you respond to problems that require a quick solution?
How to Answer
Making decisions about complex problems isn't always easy. It takes practice and experience learning what sorts of decisions yield the best results. Problems that require you to act quick can be emergency situations, like knowing where the fire extinguisher is and grabbing it fast enough to put out small grease fire in the company kitchen. Other quick decisions could be if you are asked to take on a new responsibility and only given five minutes to decide if it's something you are prepared to take on. Going with your gut is a skill, and the more you learn to trust your intuition, the easier it can get to make these kinds of decisions. Demonstrate that you are confident and willing to sometimes take a risk when necessary.
Answer Example
"I respond well in emergency and fast-moving situations that require intuitive decisions. I was raised to trust my initial response so, I do just that! One recent example was when we had a kitchen fire in my previous place of employment. Many of the staff panicked but I relied on my training, found the fire extinguisher, put the fire out, and made sure that everyone was okay and uninjured."
10. When have you spoken up for cause, knowing that it would directly look unfavorable on you, because it was the right thing to do?
How to Answer
Every manager wants a team player who will not resist company policy or argue about every detail of the work load. However; a time may come when you need to speak up about something and it may not look the best on you. Talk to the interviewer about a time that this may have happened to you on the job.
1st Answer Example
"For the most part, my company abides by all labor regulations. In the case of overtime, they did not abide by the regulations and I had to speak up for my team. The company was not happy about it because it cost them a lot of money but, in the end, they realized that they were in error."
2nd Answer Example
"I stuck up for an employee who was being bullied in the workplace. They were not fitting in, and perhaps their personality was a bit off-putting; however, nobody deserves treatment like that. My co-workers didn't like being called out but eventually they came around. All in all, it was worth it to speak up."
11. Have you ever taken the fall for a situation, where it was really not your fault, in order to protect a coworker?
How to Answer
Taking the fall for a situation, in order to protect a coworker, is a tricky situation. It can show teamwork but it may not be the most honest thing to do. Talk to the interviewer about your thoughts on taking the fall for something you did not do.
1st Answer Example
"I do not believe in 'taking the fall' for people based on protecting them. Transparency is always a good idea and if something went wrong then it needs to be addressed in order to prevent it from happening again. When it comes to clients, I will apologize on behalf of the company for errors. In that case, I will do what it takes to protect the company's reputation."
2nd Answer Example
"I have taken the heat for a situation that was not my fault. Honestly, it wasn't anyone's fault and I understand that sometimes the blame needs to land somewhere when corporate is looking for answers."
12. We have had concerns with employee theft recently. What would you do if you caught a co-worker stealing?
How to Answer
Some businesses have trouble with employee theft and they need to make sure that they are hiring someone who is honest and trustworthy. Talk to the interviewer about the steps you would take if you caught a co-worker stealing.
1st Answer Example
"I am sure that you have an internal policy for employee theft so I can assure you that I would follow the required steps to report the theft. I am a trustworthy person with a strong track record of honesty with my previous employers."
2nd Answer Example
"If I caught an employee stealing, I would report the incident immediately. As a previous manager I really understand the value in employee honesty."
13. Do you think honesty is always the best policy?
How to Answer
Is honesty always the best policy? Talk to the interviewer about your thoughts on honesty in the workplace.
1st Answer Example
"Sometimes full disclosure can damage someone's self esteem, and reality isn't always best expressed in full and can be self-indulgent based on the person's intention. In those instances, honesty isn't always the best policy."
2nd Answer Example
"I was raised to always be honest so yes - I do believe that honesty is the best policy. It's best to be honest and tell the truth whenever possible."
14. Rate your communication skills from 1-10 with proper examples backing your given rating.
How to Answer
Being able to communicate is crucial at Chipotle. If you have ever been in line ordering a burrito, you'll often hear the employees communicating back to the kitchen on their current food levels. If there isn't proper communication between the line workers and the kitchen, it's likely they will run out of food items and lose sales. When answering a question about communication, be confident in your answer. Be sure to say you have strong communication skills. When answering this particular question, keep your answer above a 7.
1st Answer Example
"I rate my communication skills as a 9/10 as I will, on occasion, have times when I am not as clear as I would like to be. My supervisor and co-workers will attest to my clear and concise communication skills. Because I am an open leader, my team will let me know if I need to clarify anything."
2nd Answer Example
"My verbal communication skills are strong; however, I would say that my written communication skills are not as strong. I simply don't have the experience when it comes to email communication, for example. For this reason, I would rate my communication skills as a 7/10."
15. Are you a leader or a follower?
How to Answer
For Chipotle, there may not be a right or wrong answer to this question. If they ask this interview question, it may just be them trying to get to know you better. Answer honestly, so they know the candidate they are interviewing. A good leader takes initiative, listens and communicates well with others. A good follower is good at following directions and working hard to accomplish tasks. Both have great qualities. Depending on the role, it may be more important for you to instigate solving problems and creating innovative solutions, or it may be more important to get the work done. Share some of your strengths to show you have qualities in both categories.
1st Answer Example
"It depends on the situation. I am good at listening and following directions, but I am also great with people and working as a team to solve problems. I would say I have qualities of both, and I know I would rise to the occasion if given a leadership opportunity."
2nd Answer Example
"I can be a follower when necessary; however, I am naturally a leader at heart. I like to mentor others and am a good example to new employees."
16. What questions do you have for me?
How to Answer
Don't let this question catch you by surprise! After you do your research on the company, write down some questions that came up for you. Next, review the company website, watch videos and read articles and press releases to see if any of those questions can be answered through those resources. Interviewers love to hear intelligent questions about their company culture, the work environment, awards and community involvement. They like to be praised for the ways you are impressed by their innovation, reputation, and impact on their industry. Be strategic in your questions. If you still have uncertainties about the position that need to be clarified, this is an opportunity to get those answers as well.
Answer Example
"Here are some sample questions:
- When would you like to have this position filled?
- How long has this role been vacant?
- Is this a replacement search or a newly created role?
- What is your favorite part about working here?
- What is the company's primary goal for this position in the next 12 months?
- Is there anything from my background and experience that I can clarify for you?
- What do you see as the biggest change in this industry over the past 3 years?
- Is there any reason why you would not hire me?"
17. We have some strong competition at Chipotle. What do you think makes us stand out?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know what attracts you to a role with Chipotle. This answer should be easy to create because Chipotle has many unique features to its restaurant. Specifically, non-GMO ingredients used. They were one of the first casual dining restaurants to feature mobile purchasing and having your order ready before you arrived. Their ingredients seem to be fresher than other similar restaurants. You can choose your own things about Chipotle that stand out for you.
1st Answer Example
"I believe that Chipotle stands out above its competitors because it has an incredible reputation for quality food and strong customer service. I'd like to work for an organization that takes quality and service as seriously as you do."
2nd Answer Example
"Through my research of Chipotle I have found that you stand out most by your great online reviews and unique brand marketing strategies on Instagram and Twitter."
18. Do you have experience in corrective discipline and terminations?
How to Answer
Terminations and corrective discipline measures can be very difficult to do but, with experience, they do get easier. Talk to the interviewer about the extent of your experience with terminations and discipline.
If you do have the experience: "I have been a part of individual terminations and group lay-offs throughout my career. I am comfortable with these types of tasks."
1st Answer Example
"I have been a part of individual terminations and group lay-offs throughout my career. I am comfortable with these types of tasks."
2nd Answer Example
"If you do not have the experience: "I have not been in a position to perform terminations or hold corrective discipline meetings; however, I would be willing to perform these types of tasks with a small amount of training and research."
19. When you suffer a setback, how does that emotionally affect you and your work?
How to Answer
Everyone handles the stress and disappointment of setbacks differently. Discuss with the interviewer how you typically cope with setbacks in the workplace.
1st Answer Example
"Experiencing a setback is always disappointing, and can be a bit disheartening, but I understand that it happens from time to time. If I experience a major setback I will take a few moments to debrief with my manager and discuss what I could have done differently. Then, I move on!"
2nd Answer Example
"I understand that setbacks happen from time to time. I don't enjoy setbacks but I do take them as a learning experience. If I face a setback in the workplace I will often ask for help to recover the time, if a deadline is in front of me. If it's a difficult customer who shook me up, I will take a breather outside for a moment. There is always a healthy way to cope."
20. When have you been asked to perform a function or complete a task in which you had little or no experience in doing?
How to Answer
Have you ever had to take on a task or a role that you felt was over your experience level? Talk to the interviewer about a time when you have dealt with this type of situation. What was the outcome, and what did you learn?
1st Answer Example
"When my manager went on unexpected medical leave for 3 months last year I was asked to step into her position in the interim. I knew the basics but was certainly not trained on the specifics of the role. I was able to take it on successfully by leaning on my team, reading a lot of company manuals, and asking many questions. Once my manager returned she was very please with the progress that I made and I was awarded a promotion."
2nd Answer Example
"When I was a hostess in my last position, one of our servers called in sick at the last minute on a busy Saturday night. My boss put me into a server role with very little training. It was intimidating but I felt a rush at the same time. The night was successful and my tips were a great reward!"
21. At Chipotle, our restaurants are open evenings and weekends. What are your preferred shifts? Do you have any limitations to your availability?
How to Answer
If you have any restrictions in your schedule it is best to bring this up with the interviewer right away. The restaurant industry is fast-moving and nearly always open. When can the manager rely on you to be there?
1st Answer Example
"My schedule is very open with the exception of Monday evenings. I am able and willing to work overtime, and weekends as well."
2nd Answer Example
"I am a team player with very few limitations to my schedule. I do have classes on Monday and Tuesday evenings. Other than that, I am available."
22. Have you taken any Food Safety courses?
How to Answer
Food safety is extremely important at Chipotle! Specifically with how damaging the recent outbreaks were to the company. The interviewer would like to know if you have taken any food specific training or certifications? If you are Food Safety Certified, be sure to bring that certification with you to your interview. If you know of any industry-specific certifications that may be required of you, be sure to address those in the interview.
1st Answer Example
"I have taken Food Safety Level I, II and III. I see that you mention ABC and XYZ in your job posting. I do not have training in these areas; however, I am more than willing to take this training and become certified before my first shift."
2nd Answer Example
"I am happy to take any food safety courses that you recommend. Because this would be my first position in the restaurant industry, I am new to these topics. With that said, I am very confident in my ability to quickly succeed. Are there any courses I could take to better prepare, while you make your hiring decision?"
23. At Chipotle we handle a lot of cash transactions throughout the day. Do you consider yourself responsible and trustworthy? Give me an example.
How to Answer
Assure the interviewer that you are trustworthy and honest. Speak about times in your career that your employers have relied on you. You can also refer to any positive employment references.
1st Answer Example
"When I worked at Company ABC, I was responsible for balancing approximately 10K in cash every day. There was never a discrepancy. I have very strong references who will speak to my honest and reliable character as well."
2nd Answer Example
"I absolutely consider myself honest, trustworthy, and responsible. A great example of my honesty would be the written reference that I have from my most recent employer. Here is a copy for you."
24. Do you see long term career potential with Chipotle? If so, where would you like to see your position go in the next 2-3 years?
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about the ways that you would like to see your career grow with Chipotle. What type of role would you like to grow into?
1st Answer Example
" I would really like to see my experience in leadership grow over the next few years. Chipotle has a strong reputation for developing and promoting their employees which is something that I am really excited about."
2nd Answer Example
"I would really like to see a long term fit with Chipotle. If I could grow with your company I would like to see it turn into a management role that includes a component of human resources. I am currently earning my BA in Human Resources and would love to have an opportunity here when I graduate."
25. How do you manage difficult customers?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to be assured that you can professionally and tactfully handle difficult customers and challenging situations.
1st Answer Example
"I have handled very challenging customers in my previous roles and am able to remain professional through all situations. When I face a difficult customer I find that it is usually due to a breakdown in communication. Because I am a strong communicator, I am able to diffuse most situations."
2nd Answer Example
"When I have a difficult customer I will try to kill them with kindness. It's often difficult for a negative person to continue being negative when they have nothing feeding the fire in the first place."
26. The casual dining industry is very competitive and turnover can be high. Why do you want to work for Chipotle over any of our competitors?
How to Answer
Casual dining has a higher turnover rate than many industries and it's often to no fault of the company. Assure the interviewer that you see a longer term fit with Chipotle.
1st Answer Example
"I have researched Chipotle and read a lot on your company culture and customer service philosophy. I would choose you over your competitors because your organization seems genuine, honest, and you do what you can to encourage growth in your employees."
2nd Answer Example
"I want to work for Chipotle first, because you have a well known reputation for strong management, growth opportunities, and fair pay. I would be very happy to build a lucrative career with Chipotle."
27. What do you know about the workplace culture at Chipotle?
How to Answer
Assure the interviewer that you have conducted research on the workplace culture at Chipotle. What do you enjoy about the culture, and how does it align with what you are looking for?
1st Answer Example
"I have spoken to a few people that have worked for Chipotle and they all have great things to say. I am seeking a workplace environment that is collaborative and positive and this role seems like a perfect fit."
2nd Answer Example
"I have researched Chipotle a great deal, before coming in today. On your website, you mention that you have a collaborative culture with a primary focus on 'service-with-a-smile'. This is exactly the culture that I am looking to work in."
28. At Chipotle we offer a strong training program. What aspects of training do you feel you need most?
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about any areas of training that you feel you may be lacking. Some areas to think about: Cash handling, food safety, culinary skills, and burrito wrapping. If you could choose the focus of your training, what would you pick?
1st Answer Example
"If I could choose an aspect of training I would like to learn more about health and safety. My end goal is to gain a leadership position with Chipotle so some training as a team lead would be valuable as well."
2nd Answer Example
"When it comes to training in the restaurant industry, I feel that I could use more training in the operation of point of sale systems. I like to fully understand the software programs and platforms that I work with, to ensure efficiency and faster service for my tables."
29. At Chipotle we encourage education and training for our employees. If you could further your education, what path would you choose, and why?
How to Answer
Talk to the interviewer about your education and training and discuss any areas where you would like to expand your education.
Chipotle, as of now, offers paid-assistance in your education. This can be found on their career blog. I would recommend diving into it further and discuss with the interviewer how this interests you. Most discussions about advanced education will be seen as a positive by the interviewer. If possible, keep your reply related to the career path you are interviewing for. For instance: You want to avoid declaring your desire to be a dolphin trainer when you're applying for a regional sales manager role.
1st Answer Example
"If I could further my education in any way I would choose to expand my knowledge in food and wine pairings. I have always found wine culture to be interesting."
2nd Answer Example
"As I saw on your career blog, I really appreciate that Chipotle encourages continued education and training. That's was so great to hear and one of the reasons that attracted me to apply here! If I could further my education in any way, I would choose to take courses in leadership and management. I would love to end up in a supervisory role later in my career."
30. At Chipotle we have gained a lot of momentum this year using social media marketing techniques. Do you follow us on Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter?
How to Answer
Prior to an interview, you should always fully research the company's online presence and, if possible, follow them on social media. This is also helpful because many companies will post their new openings using their social media platforms. The interviewer would like to know if you are authentically engaged in the Chipotle brand and product.
1st Answer Example
"I know that you have a great social media presence and I do follow your Instagram account. Of course, your posts always make me hungry!"
2nd Answer Example
"I am not involved with social media; however, I can only imagine that your posts are fun and mouthwatering. Should I end up on these social platforms, I will be sure to follow Chipotle."
31. At Chipotle we put a lot of pride in the cleanliness of our restaurants. How important is cleanliness to you?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know that you have an interest in keeping up their high standards of cleanliness. Give examples of times when you went over and above to meet cleanliness standards in your previous role(s).
1st Answer Example
"I am very concerned about cleanliness as it has everything to do with first impressions, and also the health of your customers. In my current position I am always the first to notice anything out of place or in disorder. Rest assured, I would be proud to uphold the cleanliness standards at Chipotle."
2nd Answer Example
"I really appreciate that Chipotle has such a strong focus on cleanliness. I have taken some health and safety related courses and am confident that you will be more than satisfied with my personal standard when it comes to cleanliness."
32. At Chipotle we put a great deal of value on customer service. How would you describe your customer service skills?
How to Answer
Chipotle has a strong reputation for customer service. Make sure you are prepared for a handful of customer related interview questions. Assure the interviewer that you are able to meet their customer service standards. Draw on your references or examples of a time when you went above and beyond for a customer.
1st Answer Example
"Your customer service standards are one of the reasons I was attracted to your company. I am highly trained in hospitality and am a very attentive individual. When you call my references they will attest to my great customer service skills."
2nd Answer Example
"I would describe my customer service skills as consistent, positive, and energetic. As a customer of Chipotle in the past, I really appreciate the value you put on customer service."