34 Hotel Manager Interview Questions & Answers
Table of Contents
- 1. Adaptability Questions
- 2. Career Goals Questions
- 3. Communication Questions
- 4. Compatibility Questions
- 5. Competency Questions
- 6. Customer Service Questions
- 7. Direct Questions
- 8. Discovery Questions
- 9. Experience Questions
- 10. Job Satisfaction Questions
- 11. Leadership Questions
- 12. Management Questions
- 13. Performance Based Questions
- 14. Salary Questions
- 15. Scenario Based Questions
- 16. Trust Questions
Adaptability
1. There may be a time when our hotel manager will need to represent us to the public. Talk about your public relations experience.
How to Answer
A hotel manager is the face of the hotel to the public and is responsible for presenting the best possible image to the community. The interviewer needs to know that you will not avoid opportunities to promote the hotel or seek our business opportunities. Discuss your ability to network and publicize the property.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"In my previous position, I approved all media packages and determined when and how often we would advertise. In addition, I was a member of the Chamber, and several local service clubs, like Optimist and Rotary. I believe in getting out into the community to promote as much as possible."
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I believe that promoting the hotel is vital to the occupancy rate. I would take advantage of every opportunity to keep our presence in front of the consumer. In addition, we would use as many third-party providers as possible."
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
Career Goals
2. At this hotel chain, we tend to promote from within the company. What is the next progression you would like to see in your hospitality career?
How to Answer
The interviewer knows that a promise of advancement could be a primary motivator for you to pursue a career with them. Reassure the hiring manager that you are interested in continuing your career path with this company, and will work hard to do so.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I'm interested in having a long career with XYZ company. What are the next levels beyond hotel manager? I would welcome any opportunity to advance."
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
2nd Answer Example
"I hope to have an opportunity to advance in the near future, perhaps to Regional manager."
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
Communication
3. Our Hotel Manager must show a willingness to listen to the customer. Share with me your ability to do so. What are some ways you have learned to listen to a guest?
How to Answer
No hotel chain impresses everyone every time. There are moments when guests are not satisfied no matter how hard the employees work. The interviewer needs to know how you might respond to this situation, ultimately wanting to be confident that you will be the consummate professional even if a guest is rude or has unrealistic expectations. Reassure the hiring manager that you want to receive feedback and that you take it seriously.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"I go over our online reviews every morning so that I can correct any issues that guests might have had. I contact them directly so that I can apologize if needed, and offer some kind of perk to keep them as our customers. When guests are in front of me, I never interrupt, but allow them to vent completely about their issue. I have found that most guests just want to be heard, not confronted."
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
Compatibility
4. This position will require you to work nights and weekends. What is your availability?
How to Answer
The needs of the guest are not 9-5, but 24/7. This means that a hotel manager may need to work odd and long hours. The interviewer needs to know that you are willing to put in the number of hours that may be needed, covering for absent workers or just supervising others. Reassure the interviewer that you are able to work whenever is needed, even if it means weekends or after midnight.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"I am used to working all the time. The job I have now makes me cover for any employee that does not show up. So some days I am in housekeeping and others I am at the front desk. I will have no problem working whenever I need to."
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
Competency
5. Tell me a few things you know about our hotel.
How to Answer
Regardless of the hotel chain, you may be applying for, it is always a good idea to do some online research. This is an opportunity for you to share with the interviewer any research that you have done. Talk about one or two things that might have impressed you about the hotel or the chain you are applying for.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I love the fact that Hotel XYZ cares about its guests. You can see that this particular hotel exceeds in providing wonderful service to its customers. You have so many glowing comments on the internet. I also love that you have locations all around the world, so your reputation extends almost everywhere."
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
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Competency
6. Each day in your position as a hotel manager, you will receive reports on performance. What is the best indicator if a hotel is doing well?
How to Answer
A good hotel runs good numbers. The interviewer needs to know that you have had experience with these kinds of reports and whether you will be able to identify your performance. Reassure the hiring manager that you recognize the need for statistics and that you know how to grade your hotel's performance so that you can correct any issues.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I believe in a high occupancy rate and a good avg rate per room. These are the two statistics that will tell you how a hotel is doing. A high occupancy rate with a high avg room rate means a lot more profit for the hotel. A low occupancy rate or a low room rate spells trouble. Both have to be maintained effectively."
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
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Competency
7. Describe for me your ability to multitask.
How to Answer
A hotel manager must be an effective multitasker because there is a great deal of stuff to manage. The interviewer needs to know that you can handle the myriad of responsibilities you will face. Reassure the hiring manager that you have the capability to handle multiple stressors.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I love structure, but have had to teach myself how to multitask and delegate. I try to make a list each morning of what is vital and important so that I can maximize my ability to get tasks done."
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Competency
8. The hotel works with a Point of Sale (POS) system to process payments. Share with me your experience in this area.
How to Answer
The hotel must work with a POS system to process credit cards and cash payments. The interviewer needs to know that you are familiar with these payment processing utilities.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I have extensive experience with our POS system which may not be exactly the one your hotel uses, but I am sure it is similar. I should have no problems adapting."
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Competency
9. Loss prevention is part of your responsibility as a hotel manager. What measures do you put in place to prevent theft?
How to Answer
The interviewer needs to know that you can get a handle on loss prevention to keep employees and guests from stealing.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"We charge each guest an incidental charge which we refund if nothing gets taken from the room. If a problem arose, I would have all managers check purses and employees' belongings at the end of each shift so that we can make sure that nothing is walking out of the loading dock."
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
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Customer Service
10. What is your best customer service skill?
How to Answer
In any service industry, the needs of the guests should be paramount. The interviewer is asking this question to get a sense of your priorities and your focus. Think about your customer service skills and what might set you apart from others. Be confident in your abilities as you share.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I have several strong customer service skills, but my best is my ability to listen to the customer. If you don't hear them, then how can you help them? I work hard to put myself in the guest's shoes and try to look at things from their perspective. It helps me be empathetic and solution-driven."
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
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Direct
11. We are in the process of setting up second interviews. Is there a time that works best for you?
How to Answer
Congratulations. If the interviewer is asking about a second interview, then it means you have made it past the first round. Be flexible with your schedule. Show enthusiasm that the hiring process is moving forward.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I would also be interested in scheduling another interview. I am available any day of the week other than Thursday."
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Discovery
12. The position of hotel manager requires a knowledge of both front and back of the house. Share with me your exposure to both areas?
How to Answer
A good manager will have experience in both the front and back of the house. Share with the hiring manager your knowledge of each part of the business needs to function to ensure a quality stay for the guests, and how they need to work in tandem to achieve this goal.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I started out in the front of the house working my way up from the front desk. As an assistant general manager, my boss made me work for four weeks in every department, housekeeping, kitchen, dining room, maintenance, and banquets so that I could learn what goes on in the back of the house. It taught me a lot and allows me to be very flexible in how each department should be run."
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Discovery
13. What do you like the most about the hotel industry?
How to Answer
A hotel manager needs to be a person committed to the idea of hospitality. The interviewer needs to know that the applicant is passionate about providing services to guests and committed to making them happy. Share with the hiring manager how you got started in the hotel business and what about it made you choose it as a career. this is a great opportunity for you to share some of the passion that drives you each day.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I think what I like most is the daily interaction I have with both the staff and our guests. I love to be a positive influence on their days and I know that helping them whether in business or on a pleasure trip is a big part of our responsibility."
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Experience
14. Diligent building management is an important part of protecting our hotel's profit margins. Share your experience in helping to maintain building efficiencies.
How to Answer
One of the largest expenses a hotel manager has to control its energy costs and utilities. The interviewer needs to know that you will be conscious of the various ways to control these expenses. Reassure the hiring manager that you are aware of these costs and how they affect the bottom line. Be confident in your ability to make energy management a priority.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I dislike seeing the lights left on in the offices after the employees are gone. I often walk the property a couple of times a day, turning off lights that do not need to be on, turning off faucets all the way, and adjusting A/C units. These actions seem small but they save a lot of money over the year."
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Experience
15. Our hotel facility includes an extensive food and beverage outlet. What experience do you have in food and beverage management?
How to Answer
Many hotels have restaurants, bars, or banquet facilities attached. Part of your responsibility as the hotel manager may be supporting the food and beverage manager. The interviewer needs to know that you have the expertise to support these needs. Assure the hiring manager that you have the ability to successfully help run their hotel's F&B facilities.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"In my current position I have supervised chefs, restaurant managers, and catering staffs. While our facility is not as large as yours, I am confident in my ability to make a positive impact on operations and profit margins."
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Experience
16. Have you ever been in an emergency situation involving a hotel guest?
How to Answer
As a hotel manager, there is always the possibility you will be faced with some sort of emergency situation; fire, flood, robbery, etc. The interviewer needs to know that you have the capability of handling these kinds of situations with a calm demeanor. If you panic during a fire, your staff, and guests' safety will be at risk. Think about a time when you had to make decisions that were life and death situations. Be confident in your ability to handle these pressures.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"At the property I manage, we had a fire in the kitchen one night. I ran to the back of the restaurant just in time to see the grill go up in flames. We evacuated the hotel and the restaurant called the local fire department and made sure that everyone was all right. I felt like a traffic cop that night, but by clearly giving instructions, we made it through with a minimum amount of hassle."
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Experience
17. This position requires you to work with online travel shopping companies like Expedia. How familiar are you with working with these kind of third-party partners?
How to Answer
In this day and age, many customers prefer to book their reservations with third-party applications from their smartphones or computers. Applications like Expedia or Hotels.com often negotiate rates with hotels before posting them online. Reassure the hiring manager that you have the capability to monitor these applications in order to ensure that they are being maximized.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"In my previous position, I have worked with many third parties to provide discounts, like AAA or AARP. In the last several years, third-party booking sites have grown exponentially, so I have had to learn how to work with them. I have no problem bringing my expertise in these areas to work in your hotel setting."
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
Experience
18. What are three qualities you look for in a hotel that will make you say, this is a nice hotel?
How to Answer
The interviewer is giving you an easy question to open the door for you to separate yourself from the pack. Think about some of the great hotel experiences you have had, and what set them apart. Elaborate on them without going into a great amount of detail Be passionate about what you think a good hotel experience is, and how important it is to provide it.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"Our customers pay their hard-earned money for a clean and safe and friendly environment. First, I look for the friendliness of the staff. Are they going out of their way to be helpful and courteous? Second, I want a clean place to stay. Are the public areas clean and free of dust and dirt? Are the rooms cleaned and fresh? Finally, how safe is the place? Is security present? Are their cameras installed? I think that we have a responsibility to ensure that our guests' stay was as pleasant as possible."
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
Experience
19. How often do you stay at other hotels, and what have your experiences been like?
How to Answer
Every hotel chain has its own set of policies and procedures, but the interviewer wants to know how much experience you have actually had, not just what may be printed on a resume. This question is designed to get you to talk about some of the experiences you have had from a guest's perspective. Reassure the hiring manager that you know what it is like to travel and be on the receiving end of someone else's customer service skills.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I travel constantly and am always on the lookout for how other hotel chains treat their guests. Some of the best experiences I have had I have tried to incorporate into our hotel. The worst, I have notified their corporate office so that the company can take steps to improve their customer service. I feel that they cannot correct a problem they do not know about."
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Experience
20. What was your first position in the hotel industry?
How to Answer
The interviewer is attempting to get a bit of background here. Think about your first job in the hotel business and elaborate on it. Think of this as an opportunity for you to brag on your abilities a bit, and share how you rose into management. Be passionate about your skillset and what your rise in career status has taught you.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I started as a front desk clerk and then worked my way into management, first as an assistant Front desk manager, and eventually to assistant general manager. I have learned so much over the years, but I guess it all comes down to seeing a satisfied guest."
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Job Satisfaction
21. What kind of benefits package are you looking for?
How to Answer
Talking about benefits such as health insurance or 401k plans can be important parts of an interview. If the hiring manager is asking this question, then he is attempting to open the door for a frank conversation about what you may need. Use this time to gather information and support the decision you are trying to make.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"The hotel chain I work for now offers a complete package of medical, dental, vision, and retirement savings plans. They also offer life insurance and short-term disability. I would be interested in finding out more information about what your company offers."
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Leadership
22. Hotel staff often reflect the characteristics of their leader. Talk about your leadership characteristics and how you set the tone for your team.
How to Answer
A hotel manager must set the tone for the culture of its property. The interviewer is trying to get a read on your leadership skills in order to determine if you will be a good fit. Talk with the hiring manager about your leadership style and what techniques you use to motivate those under you.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I believe in treating people fairly, but firmly. I want to be compassionate, but I also demand excellence. So I used different techniques with different employees. Some staff you can ask something of, and they will do it. Some have to be guided more closely."
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
Leadership
23. A hotel manager has to know how to lead others. Describe your leadership philosophy.
How to Answer
Being an effective hotel manager means that you must lead others to provide guests with the best experience possible. The interviewer needs to know that you have the ability to lead and manage employees well. Reassure the hiring manager of your leadership philosophy by elaborating on a couple of key components. Be confident as your share. This is your opportunity to shine.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I believe that a hotel manager is just that: managing a hotel and its staff. I believe in coaching my employees to excellence just as if I were doing their position myself. A hotel manager cannot do everything, so that means tasks have to be delegated and then supervised. I try to be patient with employees and treat each person as I would want to be treated."
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Leadership
24. Can you handle employee training responsibilities?
How to Answer
Building a quality staff to work in a hotel is not just about hiring the right people, it also means that the staff has to be well-trained. The activity of training requires the attention of the hotel manager. The interviewer needs to know what experience you have had in this regard because it will be crucial to your success. Think about training experience you have led or managed and how you may have overseen the effort.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I believe that each person in your team should know exactly what is expected of them. Then you must demonstrate not just what to do, but how to do it. Training classes are held weekly in the place where I work, and I believe in review and repeat so that our employees never forget."
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Management
25. The hotel manager is responsible for hiring and firing decisions. Share with me any experience you have in this area.
How to Answer
The Hotel Manager will be responsible for hiring decisions so that he can build the best team possible. The interviewer needs to know that you have experience in team-building and employment practices.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
Answer Example
"I have had extensive experience in the human resources department and believe that I am capable of hiring a quality team. I am not afraid to discipline or even fire someone who is not performing well. Our guests pay too much money for their hotel experience for us to waste our time tolerating underperforming employees."
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
Management
26. Part of your responsibility as a hotel manager is cost control. Share a time when you made a positive impact on the bottom line.
How to Answer
Cost control management is an important part of being a hotel manager. The interviewer needs you to understand that containing costs will be a necessary part of the job. Think about a time when you were involved in the process of controlling expenditure control. Be confident in your skillset and attention to detail.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"In my previous job, we worked at finding a purveyor for toiletries that allowed us to reduce our expenses by about 14%. I was happy to have worked with the head of their company to negotiate the best deal we could."
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Performance Based
27. A hotel manager must ensure every detail is perfect for their guests. How do you maintain keen attention to detail?
How to Answer
A big part of a hotel manager's responsibility is to walk around the property and observe. This requires an attention to detail that exceeds the employees. The interviewer needs to know that you realize that this kind of management must happen. Be confident in your ability to observe and adhere to policies.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I am not the kind of manager who will be stuck in their office all day. I like to be out and about walking the property, observing the interactions that the staff have with guests, even meeting guests themselves. I am not afraid to correct an employee if I need to."
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Salary
28. What are your salary expectations?
How to Answer
The salary packages for Hotel Managers are as varied as the number of hotel chains. Having a salary conversation about compensation can be difficult at best, but it is a necessary one to have. The interviewer is asking this question as an open door for you to ask about compensation and what you need. Be respectful and optimistic as you dialogue with the hiring manager. Consider this an opportunity for you to gather information and show a willingness to find an equitable pay plan.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I am open to discussing the pay structure offered by Hotel XYZ. I have earned a base salary plus commission for the past five years, and I appreciate the security and earnings flexibility that comes with this pay structure. Could you share with me how the company structures pay for its hotel managers?"
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Scenario Based
29. Safety is an important issue for guests and employees. What might you do if you encountered an unsafe condition in the hotel?
How to Answer
Once again, the interviewer is giving you a hypothetical situation and asking you to solve the issue. This type of question is designed to give a realistic appraisal of your ability to observe and correct. Reassure the hiring manager that unsafe conditions should never be tolerated or ignored. The safety of the staff dictates that they be corrected immediately.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I believe in safety both for guests and employees. If I encountered an unsafe condition, I would work hard to correct it. I would have an employee close by clean up the spill or move the housekeeping cart that was blocking the stairs. If no employee was present, I would correct it myself."
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Scenario Based
30. How would you handle a situation where the hotel was overbooked and a guest had to be turned away?
How to Answer
There are going to be times as a hotel manager where the property is completely sold out or oversold. At times such as these, the guest has to be transferred to another hotel should a room be found for them. The interviewer wants to assess your ability to diffuse a difficult situation. Reassure the hiring manager that you are able to handle tough circumstances.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I would find them another room at a different hotel and pay for it. Then I would attempt to contact the customer personally to inform them of what had happened and reassure them that we have them set up in a nearby property. Lastly, I would offer to pay for a ride to that hotel should they need it."
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Scenario Based
31. Having great hotel amenities can make a guest's stay even better. What are some provisions you might put in a room to enhance guest experience?
How to Answer
Hotels tend to compete in which offers the best amenities. think about the hotels you have stayed at and determine which amenities might mean the most to a traveler. Reassure the hiring manager that you recognize the need for these items.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"Certainly fast and reliable wifi is a critical amenity that the hotel must provide. Without it, guests will not stay at your hotel. Also, I love how Doubletree often puts homemade cookies in the room. I think that is a wonderful idea."
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Scenario Based
32. How would you handle a noisy hotel guest?
How to Answer
The interviewer is testing your ability to handle a situation by giving you a hypothetical question to answer. Think about what you might do to prevent a noisy hotel guest from disrupting someone else's night's rest. Reassure the hiring manager that you have the capacity to deal with discrepancies while maintaining your professionalism.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"First, I would ask security to call the room to ensure the guest was safe and that an altercation was not occurring. If the phone call did not improve the situation, I would instruct security to go to the room and ask the guests to calm down. If the complaints kept coming, then I the next step would be to ask the guest to remove themselves from the premise. If that request were to be ignored, the next step is to call to police."
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Scenario Based
33. Every hotel guest has a right to privacy. What steps might you take to ensure they have privacy?
How to Answer
The hotel manager handles private information all the time. Think about some ways that you might be able to protect the public display of information to protect and service the guest's interests. Be confident as you share a couple of examples.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"I train my staff to never announce a room number over the desk, but instead to write it down and present it to the customer. I'm also careful with ID of any kind."
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Trust
34. This position requires a background check and drug screen. Do you have any concerns with this policy?
How to Answer
The hotel company is going to run references, do a background check, and drug screen. The interviewer needs to make sure that there are no skeletons in the closet that have not emerged during the interview. Be forthright about any issues that you have. It may cost you the chance at a job, but the hiring manager will appreciate your not wasting their time.
Written by James McMechan on October 5th, 2021
1st Answer Example
"There are no issues that I am aware of. My background check should pass with flying colors and I do not use drugs."
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