28 Restaurants and Leisure Interview Questions & Answers
1. What do you feel is the most important characteristic in order to be successful with Company ABC?
How to Answer
It is essential to research Company ABC before your interview. In your research try to find information on their company values and other areas of focus. Tie in those company values with your characteristics.
1st Answer Example
"Through my research on Company ABC I saw a theme surrounding honesty and diligence. I agree that these characteristics are fundamental. In addition to these, I would add a positive attitude and strong listening skills."
2nd Answer Example
Here are some other essential characteristics that you can draw on:
- Disciplined
- Intuitive
- Takes Initiative
- Responsible
- Positive Attitude
- Solid Communicator
2. There are many job options for you in this industry. Why do you specifically want to work with Company ABC?
How to Answer
With many options in the industry for employment, why do you want to work for Company ABC? Talk to the interviewer about your preference for their company.
1st Answer Example
"I am careful to be employed with a company that holds a strong industry reputation. I'd like to work for Company ABC because your training programs are above the industry standard and you have a reputation for treating your employees very well."
2nd Answer Example
"I especially want to work for Company ABC because I have friends who have worked here before with really positive feedback on their experiences. I am looking for a positive work environment where I can stay for a long time to come."
3. In our industry you will come across some difficult customers. How do you handle an upset customer?
How to Answer
Are you able to brush it off when a customer is rude to you, or do you take it personally? Assure the interviewer that you can keep professional composure when it comes to rude or demanding customers.
1st Answer Example
"I have spent many years working in the restaurant, hotel, and other customer service based industries. I do not take it personally anymore when a customer is rude or difficult. I will do my best to make them happy, but I fully understand that you cannot appease everyone."
2nd Answer Example
"I handle an upset customer with utmost care! I listen, and do my best to help fix whatever issue they feel is upsetting them."
4. As an employee with Company ABC you will be required to handle cash and other types of customer transactions. Do you consider yourself a trustworthy and honest person?
How to Answer
Can you be trusted with company money, and company product? Draw on the strength of your references and assure the interviewer that you are a trustworthy and honest employee.
1st Answer Example
"One of my greatest strengths as an employee is my level of honesty and trustworthiness. I have multiple references who will attest to the fact that I am competent and honest. I have experience handling large amounts of cash and have never had a discrepancy."
2nd Answer Example
"I see myself and trustworthy and honest! My integrity has never been questioned, and my most recent supervisor will be happy to give you a solid reference regarding my reliability and transparent approach in the workplace."
5. Have you received any formal industry training in your previous roles?
How to Answer
Many restaurants, hotel, and leisure based companies will have an internal employee training program. Talk to the interviewer about any specialized training you have received in your career.
1st Answer Example
"With Company ABC and Company XYZ I received two-week in-house training which included topics on best-practices, health and safety, and up-selling. They were beneficial training programs. Can you tell me a bit more about your training program here at Company ABC?"
2nd Answer Example
"I am new to the workforce and have not experienced a lot in the way of industry training. I do have my food safety certificate and look forward to gaining even more training through this role with Company ABC."
6. At Company ABC we value our customers and always put them first. Do you agree with the phrase 'The customer is always right'?
How to Answer
'The customer is always right' has been a long-standing mantra for most customer-service based industries like restaurants, hotels, and recreation-based organizations. Do you agree with this mantra? Why, or why not?
1st Answer Example
"Although I believe that the customer is not always right - it's important to treat them as though they are. Within the limitations of health and safety, etc.; I believe it's best to accommodate the customer within reason."
2nd Answer Example
"Some customers are quite impossible to please so I would not go so far to say that the customer is always right. With that said, I do treat every customer with the utmost respect and do put their needs first in all reasonable situations."
7. Do you have any food safety training or health and safety related certifications?
How to Answer
Health and safety is the main priority for most recreation, hotel, and restaurant based organizations. Walk the interviewer through any related training.
1st Answer Example
"I have had training in my past three roles in regards to health and safety, and well as proper food handling. If there is additional training that you require me to participate in, I am happy to do so."
2nd Answer Example
"I am new to the workforce and, having just graduated from High School; I do not have additional training in health or safety. If you have any required coursework related to this position with Company ABC, I am happy to get a head start on that training."
8. This position requires you to work around children. Is there any reason why you would not agree to a full criminal background check?
How to Answer
For many recreational, hotel, resort, and restaurant based organizations you will need to be vetted before gaining the position. Assure the interviewer that you can pass a criminal record check. If you have a criminal record, this is the time to disclose it.
1st Answer Example
"I am happy to participate in a full criminal background check. I have a clean record."
2nd Answer Example
"I will disclose to you that I received a DUI in 2014 but do not have any other marks on my criminal record."
9. Some positions with Company ABC require you to be available on weekends, evenings, and holidays. Is there anything in your schedule preventing you from being available?
How to Answer
Being in this particular industry will require you to be flexible in your availability. Assure the interviewer that you can handle the schedule associated with this role.
1st Answer Example
"I am accustomed to working a wide range of shifts that include evenings, weekends, holidays and a large amount of voluntary overtime. I enjoy working and am happy to work whenever required."
2nd Answer Example
"I am very flexible with my schedule except for Wednesday evenings, when I attend my night courses. Other than that evening, I am willing to accommodate any of your scheduling needs."
10. At Company ABC we focus on hiring individuals who want to grow with us. Where do you see yourself in the next 2-5 years?
How to Answer
Hiring new team members is an expensive endeavor. Assure the interviewer that their investment in you would be worth it. Refer to your previous tenure and talk about your company loyalty. How does Company ABC fit in with your future career plans?
1st Answer Example
"You can see in my resume that I have strong loyalty and tenure. My career plans include growing with Company ABC in a management based role as I prove my skills. I would be happy to find a long-term fit with your company."
2nd Answer Example
"2-5 years from now, I would like to be supervising or managing a team of my own. I feel like I am progressing at a rate that will make this a possibility."
11. At Company ABC we put a lot of focus on grooming our star players into leadership roles. Do you have any interest in a management role with us down the road?
How to Answer
Assure the interviewer that you have an interest in being groomed into a leadership role down the road. What potential do you see for yourself with Company ABC?
1st Answer Example
"After researching the culture at Company ABC I am very interested in forging a career in management with you. I feel that I am a natural leader and would be proud to grow my career with your company."
2nd Answer Example
"I would love to see myself growing into a more prominent leadership role within your organization. My career goals align very nicely with your company's goals which helps me to see a great long-term fit here."
12. At Company ABC we invest a lot of time into our loss prevention program. What would you do if you caught a co-worker stealing?
How to Answer
Most professional organizations have a loss prevention program in place. Assure the interviewer that you are willing to be an active participant when it comes to preventing theft within their organization.
1st Answer Example
"If I caught a co-worker stealing, I would report the incident immediately. I am sure that Company ABC has loss prevention steps in place and I would be sensitive to those procedures before reacting to the perceived theft."
2nd 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."
13. Are you of legal age to serve alcoholic beverages to our patrons?
How to Answer
Most establishments based in recreation, restaurant, resort, or hotel will serve alcoholic beverages. In most states, it is not legal for a hiring manager to ask the age of the interviewer but they do need to ensure that you are legally able to serve alcoholic beverages. Do not feel pressured to disclose your age. A simple yes or no answer is sufficient.
1st Answer Example
"I am not yet of legal age to serve alcohol but assure you that I am capable in every other area of the position."
2nd Answer Example
"I am of legal age to serve alcohol, yes. I did bring ID with me to this interview if you need a copy."
14. Tell me about yourself.
How to Answer
When an interviewer asks an open-ended question like this, it can be difficult to know where to begin...and end! This question haunts many individuals who may have accidentally gone a little too in-depth into their personal lives. It happens. Keep your reply light, and work relevant. Share how you became interested in this career path and what you enjoy about it. This question offers an excellent opportunity to describe yourself by discussing the strengths and qualities that you bring.
1st Answer Example
"I am a competitive individual who is driven and likes to win. In addition to my successful sales career, I also spend time playing competitive sports. I give back by volunteering at the local animal shelter and working for a variety of annual fundraisers in our community."
2nd Answer Example
"A bit about me - I love to travel, read, and conduct research. I am a recent grad from Columbia University and have spent the past 12 months traveling the world. It was the best experience that I could have given myself as I was able to learn so much from seeing how the rest of the world lives. I returned to the US just last month and have been actively looking for work the past couple of weeks. I am looking forward to getting into the routine of a career again."
15. What questions do you have for me?
How to Answer
It's always a great idea to have questions ready for the interviewer. Review the company website and other online resources to ensure the questions you are asking are not mundane, or redundant. The last thing an interviewer wants to hear is a list of items you could have found the answers to from merely watching a video on their company site!
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?
1st Answer Example
"Yes, I would like to know what is the company's primary goal for this position in the next 12 months?"
2nd Answer Example
"Thank you for asking - I do have a few questions. What is top of mind when it comes to filling this role? Also, what types of career growth opportunities would follow this position? And lastly, do you have internal candidates who are also interviewing for this position?"
16. Why did you leave your last job?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know why you chose to move on from your most recent position.
An excellent response would be to say, =I was ready to take on a new challenge," or "there was no room for growth in that position."
It's always best to draw attention to what you are moving onto rather than focusing on what was wrong with what you left. It's understandable to want a new challenge or to desire to learn new things. So share what you're interested in getting out of this unique opportunity!
If you left involuntarily, explain why and be willing to admit fault. Show what you learned from the situation and how you want to prevent that issue from happening again.
1st Answer Example
" or "
2nd Answer Example
"Unfortunately I was laid off from my last position because the location where I was based, was shut down. It was one of the quieter locations in the city. I was offered the opportunity to work at the Northern location; however, transportation deemed too difficult."
17. Do you consider yourself a team player?
How to Answer
The answer to this question should always be, yes! No matter where you work, you need to be a team player, to help your company achieve its goals. Be prepared with an energetic and enthusiastic, 'Yes, I am!'
Expand on this answer by sharing your philosophy on the importance of teamwork and being an active part of a team. Show the interviewer you understand that it takes a group of people for a company to achieve its goals, and you recognize that each person is a piece of the puzzle.
1st Answer Example
"I recognize that there may be days where I need to perform duties outside of my usual job description to help out. For instance, in my current role, I may occasionally need to spend additional time mentoring and coaching new employees to ensure they fit in with the team. This responsibility creates a tighter timeline for my other important deadlines; however, I see that the end goal is to create a well-oiled machine and that cannot happen without everyone being equally trained."
2nd Answer Example
"I would certainly say I'm a team player. I've been in organized sports my entire life, so I know that without a team, you can't accomplish very much. I value the relationships I have formed from working in teams throughout my life, not to mention how much I have learned from my coworkers when collaborating across departments or the hierarchy of the organization. All in all, I know the importance of a team and I work very well in a collaborative environment."
18. Tell me about your leadership qualities.
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know what you consider to be strong leadership qualities. When describing leadership qualities, try to avoid general terms and give some unique ideas.
A great leader is someone who people naturally want to follow. They have exceptional interpersonal skills and the ability to build relationships with nearly any personality type. A respected leader will take ownership of their mistakes and will always lead their team by example. True leaders see the importance of motivating others and recognizing even the smallest achievements. With which of these qualities do you most identify?
1st Answer Example
"I have taken many workshops and courses to improve my leadership skills over the years. My leadership qualities are best summed as dedicated, attentive, and motivating. I like to recognize my employees' small wins because that motivates them to continue achieving."
2nd Answer Example
"To me, a leader is someone who is enthusiastic, knowledgeable, adaptable, and open. A leader wants to nurture others to their fullest potential, and that is something I have enjoyed doing since childhood."
19. What are your salary expectations?
How to Answer
The best way to discuss your salary expectations is to use your current earnings as an example. Be open, and honest. Transparency is the best choice when salary based questions arise.
1st Answer Example
"Currently, I earn a base salary of $45,000 per year plus a potential 20% annual bonus. Last year my earnings were $52,000, and I would like to stay in the same range or slightly higher."
2nd Answer Example
"I am currently making $30,000 per year plus tips. I am looking for compensation that is aligned with the role and provides an opportunity for growth."
20. Do you feel that you are currently paid what you are worth?
How to Answer
Many employees will look for new work if they feel that they are underpaid and underappreciated. Talk to the interviewer about your current compensation and whether or not you think it is fair.
If you feel you are currently paid what you are worth: 'I feel that my current employer pays me fairly; however, I would like to see an increase in pay with an increase in responsibilities.'
If you do not feel you are currently paid what you are worth: 'I know that I am underpaid compared to my industry colleagues. My company is small, and they do what they can, but this is part of why I am seeking a new position.'
1st Answer Example
"Yes, I believe I am paid accurately by my current company. They are not as reputable in the industry and therefore, pay less for their employees. That is why I am looking elsewhere for a job, to promote myself."
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, I am always striving to add value to an organization. I feel this is the best way to ensure that I receive fair compensation."
21. On a scale from 1 to 10, how honest are you?
How to Answer
Do you feel that you are a sincere person or do you have room for growth? This question could be a tricky one as nobody is always 100% honest. Answer to the best of your ability and back your reply by speaking about your ethics.
1st Answer Example
"I would love to give myself a 10/10 for honesty but truthfully - nobody is 100% honest all of the time. I will give myself an nine because I always do my best to be as honest as possible."
2nd Answer Example
"I put a heavy focus on honesty and trustworthiness in the workplace, as well as in my personal life. Because I strive for complete honesty, I will rate myself as a 10/10. My values are solid."
22. 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! Merely share that you have the means to get to work consistently and on time.
1st Answer Example
"I have reliable transportation. I have a well-maintained vehicle, 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 snowstorm 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."
23. 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 related to this position, definitely share the skills you have learned and the similarities.
1st Answer Example
"My absolute favorite thing to do is to travel. So far, my favorite destination has been Barbados. The beaches are incredible. I also play basketball with my brother most weekends."
2nd Answer Example
"I 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."
24. How do you handle stress on the job?
How to Answer
Are you someone who can handle stress on the job? How do you manage the stressful times? Talk to the interviewer about your ability to control 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 not to 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 embrace it to the fullest. I take good care of myself and prioritize my workload to maintain a healthy balance in my stress levels."
25. Looking at your resume, I see multiple gaps between employments, what were you doing during those gaps?
How to Answer
There are many reasons for having a gap in your resume, and it's best, to be honest about the reasons for the timeline discrepancies.
1st Answer Example
"I had a gap from 2014-2015 while I was on maternity leave and then another for six months in 2015 while I cared for an ailing parent. During that time I was vigilant in keeping up to date on the market so that my knowledge did not become redundant."
2nd Answer Example
"Thank you for addressing this with me. There were a few gaps where I took some time to further my education and attend schooling for additional certification in hospitality."
26. If you had a co-worker call in sick and you were asked to take over their project requiring overtime from you, how would you react? Where do you draw the line when it comes to being a team player?
How to Answer
Show your confidence to your interviewer by explaining your willingness to be part of the team and not being afraid to pick up the slack when needed, but make sure you don't allow someone to take advantage of you.
1st Answer Example
"I will always choose to be a team player. If I had a co-worker call in sick, I would take over what I was capable. The only time I would draw the line would be if I felt I was being taken advantage of. For example, if they were purposefully being inefficient and expecting me to pick up the slack. For the sake of the company, I am always willing to go above and beyond what is expected of me."
2nd Answer Example
"When it comes to being a team player, I draw the line when my co-workers are uncooperative or taking advantage of my kindness. I am always happy to help but will not be walked on."
27. Tell me about a time when you led 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 prepared me for a leadership role. I am excited to take on a team lead role again."
2nd Answer Example
"Our company had a sales contest last month, and I was asked to be our team leader for the challenge. I enjoyed that responsibility, and we ended up winning the reward in the end because my team increased sales by the highest percentage."
28. Do you think it is possible to be a good team member, yet disagree with the leader?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know that you can be diplomatic in the workplace, even when you may not agree with your leader.
Show the interviewer that it is possible for you to be a good team member, yet disagree with the leader from time to time. Explain that you believe everyone is entitled to their own professional opinion, yet capable of maintaining respect for each other at the same time.
Show that even if you disagree with the final decision they make, you support the direction the team is heading.
1st Answer Example
"I think that it is possible to be a great team member, even when disagreeing with the leader. It's all in how you maintain respect for each other despite the difference in opinion."
2nd Answer Example
"Yes, I think it is possible! What makes a great team member is not that they agree with everything but the level of respect and positive thought that goes into the person's communication style. It's okay to disagree you have to communicate your thoughts professionally."