As you gear up to interview for a job in the restaurant or hospitality industry, preparing properly is vital for getting the job.  Knowing why a question is being asked and preparing answers for these 5 common restaurant interview questions will give you an edge over other applicants.  If you know what to expect when interviewing you can put your best foot forward. 

1. Tell Me About Yourself

This question always feels a bit awkward to answer.  But, relevance is key here.  When asked this question the interviewer is looking for your past work experience.  Avoid going into your life story or listing hobbies.  You can always include a few facts about yourself if they will help you stand out.  Stick to responses centered around training and work and education related information.  If you are not comfortable answering this simple question your interviewer may assume you would be uncomfortable conversing with guests.  Let your personality shine by sharing experiences that make you excited, happy and motivated.

2. Why Do You Want To Work in the Restaurant Industry?

You should be able to answer this question with confidence.  Your interviewer wants to make sure you understand the people-oriented industry you are entering.  You should state that you enjoy being around people, prefer a fast paced environment, and can handle accommodating customers.  You want to show that you are cut out for the job.

3. Do You Have Any Prior Experience in the Restaurant Industry?

You should be able to answer this question with confidence.  Your interviewer wants to make sure you understand the people-oriented industry you are entering.  You should state that you enjoy being around people, prefer a fast paced environment, and can handle accommodating customers.  You want to show that you are cut out for the job.

This is a standard interview question.  Often the interviewer is wanting to know how much training you will need before you start the role.  If you have experience, share it!  However, if you do not have any prior experience in the industry, be upfront and honest.  Then focus on related experiences you do have.  If you worked in a grocery store, you have experience with customer satisfaction and taking care of business property.  Though this may be your first restaurant position, you do not lack the skills to be successful.

4. Why Our Restaurant?

If you show excitement about working at a specific restaurant, you are more likely to be committed after you are hired.  With so much competition in hiring people to work in the restaurant industry, your interviewer is particularly interested in why you are applying to work for them.  This is an opportunity for you to show something you noticed or appreciate about their establishment.  Maybe you like the decor, or the variety on the menu.  Or when you have dined there the staff was very friendly.  If you are unfamiliar with the restaurant, spend time researching prior to your interview so you can successfully answer this question.

5. Why Should We Hire You?

With this straightforward question an interviewer is simply looking for your opinion; why would you excel in this position.  Answer with confidence and clarity.  This is a great opportunity to reiterate your strengths and past experience.  Wrap up the interview by authentically sharing why you want to work for the establishment.

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