25 Barista Interview Questions & Answers
1. Tell me about a time when you mixed up a clients' order. How did you fix the situation?
How to Answer
Everyone makes mistakes; no one is perfect. The interviewer knows that too and is asking this question to see how you handle situations when you make mistakes. Give an example that demonstrates how you took responsibility for your error and fixed it. Also, include what you learned from the experience as a result. Sometimes learning from our mistakes allows us to gain some valuable tools.
1st Answer Example
"When I first started my current job, I was a bit overwhelmed with the variety of drinks our customers ordered. One day, I mixed up three orders in a row. It wasn't because I didn't know how to make the drinks. It was because I wasn't actively listening, due to nerves. I made a Caf? Mocha instead of a Caf? au lait. Then, a Frappuccino instead of a Caramel Macchiato. I apologized profusely and quickly repaired the situation by making the correct drinks and offering to pay for the ones I made in error. Now, I am sure to actively listen to every customer as they place their specific orders."
2nd Answer Example
"Luckily I have never mixed up an order related to a food allergy; however, in my first year as a server, there were a couple of instances where I forgot how a customer wanted their steak done or the accompaniments they chose. I started to write down my orders, and then as I learned the menu and gathered memorization and recall techniques, I was able to better rely on my memory. Of course, when I have mixed up orders in the past, I assume the blame, apologize, and repair the situation as soon as possible."
2. Is compensation the most important factor for you when taking a new job?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know how much emphasis you put on pay when considering a new position. In addition to compensation, there are many other factors to a fulfilling career. These other factors may include:
- work/life balance
- amount of travel involved in the role
- overall medical and health benefits
- amount of vacation time
- the type of customers you would be working with
- career growth opportunity
- the company's reputation
- overall workplace culture
Talk to the interviewer about other factors that are important to you when considering a new job. If you are not sure on details for this role, you can ask!
1st Answer Example
"Several factors are important to me when taking a job. Compensation is a driving component but so is the workplace culture, benefits, and location. I am looking to have an easier commute than I currently experience."
2nd Answer Example
"I am earning my way through University right now, so the two most important factors to me are flexibility in my schedule, and the opportunity to earn a fair wage. I am available evenings and weekends but come next semester; I will be available during most afternoons."
3. How do you get along with others at work?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to gauge if you can maintain healthy relationships in the workplace. They want to know more about the dynamics with your coworkers. Think about what you enjoyed about some of your relationships with past coworkers. Excellent communication, sense of humor, and support are all great qualities that make co-worker relationships healthy and harmonious.
1st Answer Example
"I get along great with my coworkers. I try to maintain a positive attitude and be supportive, whether I am offering to assist someone who is overwhelmed, or if I am taking time to listen to someone who is having a bad day."
2nd Answer Example
"I am a people person who can find a way to get along with nearly anyone. When it comes to odd coworkers, I've learned to be glad I don't live with them! If they're negative, the longest I'm with them at any one time is about 5 hours. I can handle most anyone for that length of time."
4. How do you prevent stress from your personal life entering your professional life?
How to Answer
One of the most significant problems between employees and employer is that outside influences, and stressors, begin to affect work performance and outcomes. Assure the interviewer that you understand the importance of keeping your cool, and your focus, in the workplace. Discuss the action that you take to ensure professionalism is present at all times.
1st Answer Example
"Responsibilities management is the key for me when it comes to preventing stress from creeping into areas where it should not. I use a planning app to track my assignments at university, my responsibilities at home, and my work schedule. I promise to myself that I will not postpone a work obligation or a school assignment. This method has always worked very well for me."
2nd Answer Example
"I get a workout in every morning before I head to work. This morning workout is a great stress reliever and assurance that I come to work with a clear mind."
5. What tools do you need to deliver excellent customer service?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to ensure that you are set up for success, should you be the successful candidate. There are many tools that you could use excel in your job but remember - the most significant tool you possess is an excellent attitude and a great team backing you. Discuss with the interviewer what you think you will need to deliver exceptional service to their customers.
1st Answer Example
"The main thing that I will require, to deliver exceptional customer service, is great training. The better I know the products, processes, and overall feel of the coffee shop, the more effectively I will be able to help your customers."
2nd Answer Example
"To deliver excellent customer service all I truly need is a great attitude! Aside from that, I appreciate having a company that empowers me to make decisions that benefit the company and serve the client at the same time."
6. What would you do if a customer asked you about the ingredients in a food or beverage, and you were unsure of the answer?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to know if you are an independent thinker with the ability to find answers for yourself, when necessary. Explain that you would take the time to try and figure out the solution, but you are not afraid to ask questions if you need to. Also, show the interviewer that you understand the importance of giving the correct information when it comes to food and beverage ingredients. Food allergies and sensitivities are no joke!
1st Answer Example
"If I had a customer ask me about a product that I didn't know enough about, I would find the answer for them before giving a potentially false answer. I am okay with admitting when I don't know something, and I love to learn new things. Of course, I would find the answer quickly by asking my manager or finding it within the company's internal resources."
2nd Answer Example
"My rule of thumb is never to say 'I don't know.' I always say 'I will find out.' This process of finding an answer could include researching our menu online, or asking a more tenured employee for help."
7. How important is it to keep the barista station clean during your shift?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to hear that you understand it is essential to keep the barista station clean and tidy at all times. Tell the interviewer that it is imperative to keep the barista station clean during your shift for a variety of reasons.
From a health perspective, it is essential to keep it sanitary. From a work environment perspective, everyone enjoys working in a tidy environment. From a customer perspective, customers want to know their beverages are made in a well-kept sanitary environment; it creates a level of respect for the customer.
Be sure to mention where you have noticed a barista keeping their station clean. Did you see the barista at your local coffee shop wiping down the counter frequently during your last visit?
1st Answer Example
"I noticed the last few times, visiting your coffee shop, that the barista station is much cleaner than many other local coffee shops. It's vital that a station is clean and tidy so that all health codes are met and exceeded, and so that customers feel comfortable and willing to return time and time again."
2nd Answer Example
"I am a clean and tidy person, and I also have food safety training so you can rest assured that I would uphold your high standards of cleanliness. I have been to a few coffee shops in the area, and your shop is by far the cleanest. I would be very proud to work here."
8. What is the first thing you noticed when you walked into our coffee shop?
How to Answer
Many interviewers will ask this question to see how observant and engaged you are. If you are genuinely interested in working for this coffee shop, you will have noticed some of the great things about them when you first entered the building. Keep your response light and positive! This question is not the time to begin criticizing or offering suggestions on how to improve.
1st Answer Example
"The first thing I noticed when walking into your coffee shop, was that your employees are all cheerful, the store is clean and well stocked, and organized. I appreciate that there is so much care that goes into the appearance, and ambiance of this coffee shop. I look forward to being a part of it!"
2nd Answer Example
"The first time I walked into your shop I noticed that you have a lot of nice options for product upselling such as coffee beans, gourmet teas, biscuits, and other delicious food items. Customers want choice, and you certainly offer that."
9. If a customer said they wanted a double double, what are they referring to?
How to Answer
In the coffee world, there is specific lingo that is attached to certain coffee shops and franchises. A double-double is a term that originated from Tim Hortons, meaning double cream and double sugar. Show the interviewer that you are familiar with the coffee lingo by giving other favorite examples.
"If a customer were to order a 'double-double' I would know they are asking for double cream and double sugar. This order makes a regular drip coffee sweet, and creamy. Many terms come from other coffee shops, just like some people will order a grande, I know they are using the Starbucks terms for a 16-ounce coffee drink."
1st Answer Example
"If a customer were to order a 'double-double' I would know they are asking for double cream and double sugar. This order makes a regular drip coffee sweet, and creamy. Many terms come from other coffee shops, just like some people will order a grande, I know they are using the Starbucks terms for a 16-ounce coffee drink."
2nd Answer Example
"I am not familiar with the term double-double, but if I had to guess, I would think it means two cream and two sugar. There are many coffee terms that I am aware of, and I will be sure to learn others as I have further barista training."
10. What is a Caf? Breva, and why can it be challenging to make?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know that you understand the difference between a cappuccino and a Breva. Sometimes, there are minimal differences between drinks, but a great barista is just like a bartender - able to know the small nuances between drinks. If you know how to make a Caf? Breva, walk the interviewer through it, and discuss why you believe it's harder to make than some drinks. If you do not know how to make a Caf? Breva, that is okay. It's then important you express to the interviewer that you are eager to learn.
1st Answer Example
"Rather than using milk, a Caf? Breva uses half and half. Sometimes, a Caf? Breva is ordered with half-and-half as well as regular milk. From my experience, this drink can be a challenge to prepare since it's more difficult to get half-and-half to foam. It's best to steam and froth the half-and-half to around 150 degrees, then allow it time to set."
2nd Answer Example
"I am not familiar with a Caf? Breva, but my best guess is that it is close to a cappuccino. There are many drinks that I know, and many I have yet to learn. I am eager to become a top barista and look forward to learning more!"
11. Tell me about a time when you received criticism from your manager. How did you react?
How to Answer
This question is another way for an interviewer to ask you what your weaknesses may be. When you are thinking about examples of criticism, it's best to show that you want to grow as an employee and that you can handle constructive criticism professionally. Feedback from a manager helps you learn and improve the quality of your work. Give examples that would not make you exempt from the role. For instance, if you are interviewing to be a barista, you do not want to mention that your manager said you were terrible at interacting with customers!
1st Answer Example
"In my most recent performance review, my manager asked me to be a bit less chatty with the customers. I understand that we need to speed up the line, especially at peak times like in the mornings. With that said, they also appreciate the fact that I remember customers' names and work to make a genuine connection with them. I now continue to be my friendly self, but I am better at moving the line along."
2nd Answer Example
"It's important that I take manager feedback and implement it right away. This strategy is best for becoming better at my job, resulting in career growth. The last time I received criticism from my manager, he asked me to learn a greater variety of drinks. After that, I started to watch YouTube videos from renowned baristas. These videos helped, and my manager quickly noticed the difference in my confidence behind the counter."
12. Would you give someone you know a free coffee?
How to Answer
You understand that ethics are fundamental in a place of business, and the interviewer wants to hear that you will appropriately charge each customer for their order. The response to this question should always be no, you would never give away free product, even if it were a simple cup of coffee.
1st Answer Example
"My friends know my job is more important than free coffee. If a friend asked me to do something that selfish for them, I wouldn't even be their friend. I have strong ethics, and you can fully trust me to be responsible and honest."
2nd Answer Example
"Giving away product, no matter how inexpensive, is still stealing. If I wanted to treat my friend to something, I would do so as a paying customer, when I was not on shift. You can rest assured that I am honest and ethical. My references will attest to this as well."
13. Name for me the main types of coffee beans.
How to Answer
If you are a real coffee nut, you likely know there are a variety of beans available. The interviewer wants to know how much experience you have with coffee. How you respond will show the hiring authority how much training will be necessary if you are selected for the job. Share what you know. If you don't know a lot, that is okay! It's important to show you have a genuine willingness to learn.
1st Answer Example
"From my research and training I know there are four main types of coffee beans including Arabica, Robusta, Excelsa, and Liberica. The woody taste and rarity of Liberica beans mean they are not as popular, or readily available. Arabica is the most common bean used in North American coffee shops, accounting for around 60% of the coffee brewed today."
2nd Answer Example
"I am not a coffee expert; however I do know that Robusta and Arabica are the two types of coffee beans most often found brewed in coffee shops today. Robusta is as its name suggest - robust flavor and hearty. Arabica is more delicate and best for coffee drinkers who like a smooth coffee without cream or sugar."
14. How well do you remember names?
How to Answer
Most coffee shops love creating and establishing a friendly relationship with their customers. Remembering names is an essential part in having this. If you have experience doing this, definitely share it with the interviewer! This question shouldn't make or break your interview. If you are terrible with names, admit that. At least say you are practicing techniques you found on youtube and trying to become better at remembering names.
1st Answer Example
"I have been practicing techniques to become better at remembering names. I know I can make an excellent barista, considering my robust background in customer service, and remembering customer names is the cherry on top! I am sure to repeat the customers' name immediately after asking for it, helping to commit the name to memory."
2nd Answer Example
"I recently read the book, 'How to Develop a Brilliant Memory Week by Week' by world memory champion Dominic O'Brien. I learned a lot about how the brain responds to basic memory training and can say that I have seen an improvement. I am much better at remembering names than the average person."
15. When you visit our coffee shop, what do you order?
How to Answer
The interviewer would like to know that you have visited their coffee shop and that you are familiar with their menu, ambiance, and overall offering. It is vital that you go to this coffee shop before your interview, even if it is not directly in your neighborhood. If the interviewer asks you this question, and you respond with 'I have never been here before' it gives the impression that you are not engaged in the process. Share what you order, what your favorite menu item is, and how often you go there.
1st Answer Example
"This coffee shop has been my go-to stop since moving into this neighborhood five years ago. Most mornings I come and order a regular mocha latte and breakfast panini. It's the best start to my day, and it helps that your baristas are always so friendly and cheerful."
2nd Answer Example
"I visited your coffee shop for the first time last month. The wonderful experience that I had is what prompted my application in the first place! I loved my Americano, and the blueberry muffin was to die for!"
16. What do you think are the primary tasks of a barista?
How to Answer
Surprisingly enough, many people will apply for jobs even when they do not understand the scope of the work. The interviewer would like to know that you genuinely understand what it takes to be a barista. Some of the more common tasks of a barista include:
- Take customer orders
- Make specialty coffee drinks
- Serve pastries and other menu items
- Describe menu items to customers
- Create to-go orders
- Clean and tidy the prep areas and coffee shop
- Upsell new products and promote seasonal menu items
- Deliver exceptional customer service
Show the interviewer that you have a full understanding of the work by referring to the job posting or job description, discussing how you are excited about the opportunity and responsibilities.
1st Answer Example
"From your job posting, I believe the primary tasks of this role will be to deliver the best customer service possible, take and create specialty coffee and tea drinks, while also upselling other items such as pastries and breakfast sandwiches. I look forward to learning everything that required of me in this role."
2nd Answer Example
"I understand that a barista is a very busy role, requiring one to take orders, remember the small details of a drink, upsell customers on new or seasonal products, all while keeping the shop tidy and organized. I look forward to the buzz of working here, and learning even more of the responsibilities of a barista."
17. Are you able to work a few hours straight without taking a break?
How to Answer
Baristas stay very busy, and there are times when you will not have a break between customers. The role of a barista is physically demanding, and you will be standing up most of your shift. Think about a time when you needed to work a few hours in a row without a break. Share where you were working, what your job was, and how long you would typically go without a break.
The key is to show the interviewer that you can remain positive about hard work, even when you may be tired. Discuss that you understand the need to be a team player and work a few hours straight without a break to keep up with customer demand.
1st Answer Example
"At my last position we were allocated one fifteen minute break for every three hours. Typically, on days where we happened to be understaffed, I would skip my break to help the team out. I am physically fit and have no problem being on my feet for most of my shift."
2nd Answer Example
"I understand that baristas work very hard and spend most of their shift on their feet. I have worked as a bartender in the past, which is very similar in its physical demands. I can work a six-hour shift without taking a long break. I find that I thrive off of the energy of others, in a busy customer-driven environment."
18. Since you have never worked in a coffee shop before, how do you know you will like it?
How to Answer
The interviewer is trying to understand more about your desires when it comes to your job and workplace environment. Your response will help the interviewer understand how much training you will need if hired for the job, and if being trained as a barista is best for you. If you have worked in customer service, restaurants, or retail-based roles, share where you worked, your job title, your day-to-day responsibilities, and how long you worked there. Be sure to mention how that work aligns with the requirements of this role.
1st Answer Example
"Although I have not worked in a coffee shop before, over the last month, I have been practicing the craft of making lattes and other fun coffee drinks, at home. I love fancy coffee! I have been a regular at your establishment, and when I saw the job opening, I knew this would be an excellent opportunity for me. I do have customer service experience from my part-time role as a hostess and believe that my training would lend itself very well to the standards you uphold here."
2nd Answer Example
"I have a friend who works at your coffee shop and, the way she describes the workplace culture, the loyal clients, and the close-knit family feel of your team, how could I not love working here! I am looking for a fast-paced job where I can keep busy and feel like I am part of something positive."
19. Some people are very intense about their coffee orders! If you could not make a customer happy, what would you do?
How to Answer
It is essential that you can turn most customers around; however, this will not be the case 100% of the time. The interviewer would like to see that you have the sense to offer a solution while keeping the company's best interest in mind at the same time. Discuss what you would do to make sure a customer was taken care of while keeping in mind that, at times, situations need escalating to upper management. Also, there may be times when customer satisfaction cannot be achieved. Talk about how you come to terms with that.
1st Answer Example
"You win some; you lose some and one of the first things I learned while training as a barista, was that you would have an upset customer at times, no matter how hard you try. In these instances, I will ask my manager to step in and help. Usually, a fresh face with fresh ideas will be enough to help a customer to ease up a bit."
2nd Answer Example
"If I could not make a customer happy I would escalate the situation to my manager, or another coworker who was perhaps better with customer dispute resolution. I understand that you cannot make everyone happy at all times, but I will certainly try my best. I do make great coffee and can follow even the most complicated instructions very well."
20. How well is your memory? Have you ever had to memorize a list of items before?
How to Answer
Baristas learn very quickly how to memorize a list of products and customer orders while they multi-task through making beverages and cafe items. Interviewers want to hear that you are confident you can take on the task of memorizing a list of things to ensure you will be successful in your job. Often, being positive about taking on the mission is half the battle! Tell the interviewer if you are accustomed to memorizing a list of items. Next, share that you look forward to memorizing lists of items and customer orders as a barista.
1st Answer Example
"I believe my memory is above the norm. At my last position, I had to memorize the entire menu before I even attended my first serving job. I am happy to do the same here if you have any take-home material for me."
2nd Answer Example
"I am good at memorizing menu items. I know it makes the job easier, the more drink items I can commit to memory. I am motivated and excited to get started, so, I have already taken the time to comb through your online menu, learning the basics."
21. How do you define good customer service?
How to Answer
Every customer related job position you are interviewing for, will like have at least one question focused on when you have delivered excellent customer service. You should come prepared to talk about at least three times when you have gone above and beyond the call of duty to help a customer.
Excellent customer service goes beyond doing precisely as your expected, and it's more than having a smile on your face when the customer is looking. Excellent customer service means that you actively seek out the opportunity to deliver more than the standard. It means thoroughly listening to your customers when they tell you what they need. Also, it equals offering support when your customer may be a little bit in over their head. Be sure to echo the jargon used on the coffee shop website and social media accounts when it comes to keywords related to their customer service mantra. Keep your answer brief but ensure that it packs a punch.
1st Answer Example
"I define good customer service as actively seeking out opportunities to give the customer a better experience than they expect. I was working at a restaurant, and one of my customers had a food allergy, a broken wrist, and rowdy kids. I made sure the kitchen was cautious with her food order, and I took some time to entertain the kids. I did my best to make the experience as easy for her as possible. She was pleased with her experience and told my manager too."
2nd Answer Example
"Kate Zabriskie, the author of Business Training Works, once said, 'The customers' perception is your reality.' To me, this means that if my customers think that I do not care about them, or that their experience wasn't friendly, then they are correct. Excellent customer service starts with proper training and setting high standards for your front-line workers from the get-go."
22. How well do you handle multiple tasks at once, while remembering names of customers and their complicated drinks?
How to Answer
Baristas need to multi-task well to do their jobs properly. Time is not a luxury for a barista; you won't be able to complete one drink at a time before starting on your next beverage. The interviewer needs to see that you can finish multiple drinks simultaneously at a fast-paced, while also having an ear open for your next order. Think back to a previous time when you did numerous tasks at once, without dropping the ball.
1st Answer Example
"While I was working at my last job, a busy burrito chain, I was constantly aware of my surroundings while completing my main function, which was preparing burritos for customers. While I was preparing burritos, I would be checking food supplies and vocalizing to the cook our orders, dietary restrictions, and special instructions. I would also have to keep my station clean while doing all my other tasks. This restaurant was an open environment which means that customers could see into my station, as well as the kitchen. This set up meant, on top of all the stress and the buzz, I needed to be friendly and engaging with the customers at all times."
2nd Answer Example
"I have worked at popular coffee shops, as a barista, for the past six years. My memory is excellent, and I have a great mental capacity when it comes to storing and recalling many small details at one time. This attention to detail includes customers names, their preferred drinks, their special requests, and any food sensitivities such as nuts and dairy. I like the fast pace that comes with being a barista and welcome any challenge that will come my way in this bustling coffee shop."
23. What is the difference between a Macchiato, a Latte Macchiato, and a Cappuccino?
How to Answer
Before your interview, you should study a few of the most common drinks a barista will be asked to make. It can be hit or miss if an interviewer will ask direct questions like this, but it's best to come prepared anyways. Knowing these basic drinks will show you are either a coffee fan, or you care enough about the interview to come ready beforehand.
1st Answer Example
"The difference in these drinks may be the ingredients, or something as simple as how they are layered. For instance, a latte macchiato is steamed milk, then espresso, then milk foam. A cappuccino has espresso, then steamed milk, and then milk foam. The same ingredients, just a different order! To make a macchiato, take your espresso and top it off with a small amount of steamed milk."
2nd Answer Example
"I understand, as a coffee lover, that there are small but significant differences in these drinks. It takes a lot of work to learn them all; however, I can say with confidence that I know how to prepare the majority of drinks on your menu. When it comes to a macchiato versus a latte macchiato, and a cappuccino, it's primarily the order of how the ingredients are layered in the cup. A macchiato is the simplest, just espresso and a small amount of steamed milk. A latte macchiato holds steamed milk first, and then espresso topped with milk foam. Where a cappuccino starts with espresso, topped with steamed milk, then milk foam."
24. How do you make a Caf? Latte?
How to Answer
It is essential that, before your interview, you perform some research on the most popular coffee drinks. If you can study the menu at this particular coffee shop, that is a great strategy! The hiring authority wants to hear that you have some knowledge of coffee products. Share, in as much detail as you can, how to make a latte. On another note, as you likely know, the primary difference between a caf? latte and a caf? au lait is the name. Caf? latte is the Italian version, and caf? au lait is the French version. Sometimes, a caf? au lait does not have foam. Be prepared for trick questions on variations of drinks!
1st Answer Example
"To make a latte, you pour brewed espresso into the coffee cup. Next, you take steamed milk and use a spoon to hold back the foam while you pour the milk into the espresso. The final step is to add the foam onto the top of the poured beverage."
2nd Answer Example
"I recently learned how to make an incredible latte at home, without an espresso machine! I make a strongly brewed coffee to start. Then, I froth milk using my at-home milk frother. Next, I heat the mild for a few seconds in the microwave. Next, I pour the warm milk into the espresso, holding back the foam. Lastly, I spoon a small amount of the foam on top. I realize that some people prefer lots of foam! Garnishes could include a sprinkle of nutmeg or cocoa powder."
25. Would you be upset if a customer ordered three drinks and left without tipping?
How to Answer
The interviewer wants to see that you will approach work with a joyful attitude, rather than showing up with a chip on your shoulder. Baristas understand that not receiving a tip is part of the nature of the job. Share that while tips are a nice perk of being a barista, you know that not everyone tips at the coffee shop.
1st Answer Example
"No, I would not be upset if someone left without tipping. Many people do not tip their barista, and I have noticed at places like Starbucks, there is no tip option on the debit machines when you pay by card. I make sure not to factor in tips as part of my required income, so I am happy and thankful for any tips I make!"
2nd Answer Example
"In my current barista role, I would say that 40% of customers tip. I genuinely do not believe that it's a common practice for most people since a coffee shop stop is usually a quick grab and go. I am appreciative of any tips; however, I would never expect them."