How well do you get to know the customers that visit your establishment?

"It depends on the clientele. I develop a good sense of who enjoys having a relationship with the staff and the restaurant and who are just looking to keep to themselves. For the people who enjoy having a good relationship with us, I get to know about their jobs, kids, their interests like sports or movies. When people see that I care about them as individuals and not just as dollar signs, they tend to come back more often, and they are more generous with their gratuities too."

Customer relationships help an establishment thrive by motivating the customers to keep coming back. The interviewer wants to hear that you understand this. Even small talk about recent football games or community events is a great way to get to know your regulars and new customers. Discuss how you get to know the customers in the current establishment for which you work.

"I enjoy getting to know my customers so I do ask them questions about their life, what brought them in that day, or if they have any favorite cocktails they would like to try. I keep the conversation light and friendly, so they want to return when they feel like having some downtime."