20 Frequently Asked Questions for Waitress Interview

December 21, 2023 · 18 min read

Find out what skills and qualities interviewers want from a waitress during interview, what questions they may ask, and how to answer them well.

Waitressing is a special and hard job. Waitresses take orders, serve food and drinks, and clean after customers. They also handle tough customer situations.

If you want to be a waitress, you’ll probably have a job interview. To get ready, we’ve collected some of the usual questions in waitress job interviews, with example answers.

Common Waitress Interview Questions
FAQs
Conclusion
References
Recommendations

Common Waitress Interview Questions

Here are some common waitress questions you should expect in an interview.

Are you comfortable working in a fast-paced environment?
Describe how you would help other waitresses if they need assistance on their tables.
Describe your experience with cashiering and POS systems.
Do you have any questions for us about the position?
Have you ever encountered a situation where the customer was wrong, but you still had to remain diplomatic?
How do you handle difficult customers?
How often do you think you should check in with customers?
How well do you handle stress?
How would you handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with their food or beverage?
If a customer asks you a question about the menu, how do you respond?
Provide an example of a time when you went above and beyond for a customer.
There is a problem with a customer’s order. What do you do?
We want our waitresses to be friendly and approachable. How would you make customers feel welcome?
What are your greatest strengths as a waitress?
What do you think makes a great waitress?
What is your experience with food service?
What makes you stand out from other candidates?
What would you do if you noticed another waitress struggling to handle their tables?
When would you use good judgment on the job?
Which restaurant concepts have you worked with in the past?

#1. Are you comfortable working in a fast-paced environment?

Being a waitress can be hectic, especially when it’s crowded. Employers want to know if you can handle a fast-paced environment and do multiple things at once. In your answer, describe how you cope with high-pressure situations and what methods you use to keep track and focused.

Example: “Yes, I love working in fast-paced environments and I have a lot of practice in them. As a Waitress, I’ve learned menus quickly, remembered orders, and served customers effectively. This has improved my multitasking skills which keep me organized and alert even when the restaurant is full. I’m also great at solving problems, which helps me deal with any challenges that come up during busy hours.”

#2. What are your greatest strengths as a waitress?

This question lets employers know more about your character and how you would fit in with their team. When answering, consider some strengths that match the job description or make you a good server.

Example: “My best strengths as a waitress are my accuracy, customer service skills, and pressure handling. I have a lot of experience in the restaurant industry and know how to serve customers well. My accuracy makes sure orders are correct and fast. I can also give friendly and useful suggestions when customers want recommendations.”

#3. How would you handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with their food or beverage?

This question tests your interpersonal skills and problem-solving abilities when dealing with unhappy customers. In your answer, emphasize your customer service skills and ability to fix problems.

Example: “I know how vital it is to offer excellent customer service and make customers happy. If a customer is displeased with their food or drink, I would first say sorry for the trouble and ask them what they didn’t like. This helps me understand their issue and find the best solution. After getting all the details, I would then work with the kitchen staff or barista to decide what to do. Depending on the case, this could mean changing the item, giving a discount, or adding free items. I aim to make the customer leave content and pleased with their experience.”

#4. What is your experience with food service?

This question lets you showcase your food service experience and how it applies to the job you want. If you were a waitress before, explain what you did and how it made you ready for this job.

Example: “I have over five years of food service experience. I began as a hostess at a local restaurant and then became a waitress soon. There, I learned a lot about the industry, like how to serve customers well, describe menu items, and manage big groups of customers. I also served as a catering server for an event planning company for two years. This taught me more about the details of food service, like arranging buffets and plated meals, making drinks, and serving all guests quickly and effectively.”

#5. Provide an example of a time when you went above and beyond for a customer.

This question shows if you are ready to do more for their customers. They want to see that you are passionate about your job and will ensure each customer has a wonderful experience. When answering, give an example from your past job where you did more than expected for a customer.

Example: “I recall a time when I was a Waitress at my previous job. One day, a customer was unsure what to order. He asked for my opinion and I explained all his choices in detail and made sure he knew everything on the menu. After hearing him out, I recommended a dish that suited him well. He loved it and thanked me for my assistance. As a bonus, I gave him a free dessert since he was happy with his meal. He was grateful and said he would come back again. This taught me how valuable it is to do more for customers and serve them well.”

#6. If a customer asks you a question about the menu, how do you respond?

This question tests your menu knowledge and ability to answer customer questions. Your answer should demonstrate that you can answer questions confidently, emphasize your food service experience, and create a positive customer experience.

Example: “When a customer has a menu question, I always give them correct and useful information. First, I pay attention to their question so that I know what they want. Then, I describe the item in detail, including any ingredients or methods that they might care about. Finally, I recommend other items that suit their preferences or needs. I aim to make each customer happy with their experience.”

#7. What would you do if you noticed another waitress struggling to handle their tables?

This question shows how you cooperate with your colleagues and help each other. Your answer should give a specific example of when you helped a colleague before, but it can also show any leadership skills you have that make you a good team member.

Example: “If I saw another waitress having trouble with their tables, I would help them first. I know it can be hard to handle many tables at once and I always offer help when needed. I have a lot of experience in the restaurant industry and understand how vital it is for customers to get great service. I would also talk to the other waitress to see what help they need. If they are struggling with orders or customer requests, I could do those tasks for them. Or, if they just need some more time, I can look after their tables until they’re back.”

#8. How well do you handle stress?

This question checks if you can cope with the stress of being a waitress. You need to handle stress well to serve your customers and keep your cool. Employers want to see that you can deal with the pressure of waitressing. In your answer, show how you remain calm under pressure. Give an example of a time when you had a stressful situation at work.

Example: “I’m used to working in high-pressure environments, so I don’t mind stress. I know that waitressing can be challenging and fast, but I’m sure that I can keep calm under pressure and manage any situation. I can also think fast and make choices in the moment if needed. Plus, I always ask for help when I need it and work with my team to do the job well.”

#9. Do you have any questions for us about the position?

This question shows if you researched the company and job. They want to see that you really want to work for them, so prepare some questions about their business or the role.

Example: “Yes, I have some questions. First, what restaurant is it? Casual or fine dining? Second, how many tables will I serve? Third, what training will I get before starting? I’m the right person for this job as I have a lot of restaurant experience. I’m organized and fast when ordering and delivering food, and always polite and professional with customers. I can work in casual and fine dining. I’m eager to hear your answers and learn more about the role.”

#10. When would you use good judgment on the job?

This question tests your judgment skills on the job. Employers want to see that you can make smart decisions as a waitress. Give examples from your past experience where you showed good judgment and how it helped your team or company.

Example: “Judgment is crucial for any job, but especially for waitressing. I know that the customer is always the priority and that I must make them happy at the restaurant. So, I show good judgment in everything I do. For instance, if a customer waits too long for their order, I will check on them and ensure things are fine. I also show good judgment with tough customers. I stay polite and professional while trying to fix any problems they have.”

#11. We want our waitresses to be friendly and approachable. How would you make customers feel welcome?

This question checks if you can be friendly and helpful with customers. When answering, think of what your previous managers praised about your customer service skills. Use specific examples from past experiences that show how you would use those skills in this role.

Example: “I know how to make customers feel welcome and I have the skills for it. As a waitress, I offer excellent customer service by being friendly and approachable. I greet each customer with a smile and ask about their day. This creates a warm atmosphere for them to enjoy their meal. I also chat with my customers and learn what they like and dislike about the restaurant. I use this to customize their experience. This way, I make sure all our guests are happy and comfortable while dining with us. Lastly, I always thank customers for coming and show our gratitude.”

#12. Describe your experience with cashiering and POS systems.

This question checks if you have experience with cashiering and POS systems. Employers want to see that you can do these tasks, as they are part of the role. When answering, be truthful about your experience. If you have none, say that you’re eager to learn.

Example: “I have a lot of experience with cashiering and POS systems. I was a Waitress for five years, where I took orders, rang up customers, and handled payments. I learned different POS systems, like Square, Clover, and Toast. I can use each system to process payments quickly and correctly. I also follow the right steps for cash handling, like giving change and receipts. My experience taught me how these systems work, which helps me serve customers well.”

#13. What makes you stand out from other candidates?

This question shows your qualifications and how you can help their team. When answering, emphasize a skill or experience that sets you apart from other candidates. You may also want to say something that matches the job description.

Example: “My experience and customer service make me different from other candidates. I was a waitress for five years, so I know how to serve customers well. I have good communication skills which help me talk to customers and make them happy. I am also organized and careful when ordering and checking accuracy. I make sure each order is fast and quality. I always do more to make customers pleased with their experience.”

#14. Which restaurant concepts have you worked with in the past?

This question shows your experience level. If you worked with a specific restaurant concept, say what you liked and disliked about it. If not, you can still answer by describing the types of restaurants you worked in.

Example: “I worked with different restaurant concepts before. I began as a server at an Italian restaurant, where I learned customer service and large orders. Then, I worked at a fast-casual Mexican restaurant, which taught me high-paced work. Next, I worked at a fine dining steakhouse, where I improved my table service. Lastly, I worked at a seafood restaurant, where I learned seafood dishes.”

#15. What do you think makes a great waitress?

This question shows if you share their values. They want someone who will do well and serve customers excellently. When answering, think of what makes you a great waitress. Focus on your own skills, not others’.

Example: “I think that great customer service is the key quality of a great waitress. A great waitress should be friendly, attentive, and detailed. They should also predict customers’ needs before they ask. Besides good customer service, a great waitress should also be organized. This means keeping track of many orders and which table they go to. Being organized helps serve orders fast. Finally, a great waitress should be professional. This means dressing well, speaking clearly, and being positive. These qualities show customers that you are serious and committed to giving them the best experience.”

#16. How often do you think you should check in with customers?

This question shows how you balance customer service with other tasks, like ordering or refilling drinks. In your answer, say that you would check in with customers at least once every 15 minutes. Say that you will use a timer to remember when you checked in with each table.

Example: “Checking in with customers is vital for being a great waitress. I want each customer to feel welcome and cared for during their dining experience. So, I check in with customers at least once during their meal. This could be when they sit down, order, or finish their meal. Checking in lets me make sure the customer has what they need and likes their food. It also lets me see if they want anything else. I know how important it is for customers to feel looked after, so I always provide great service by checking in often.”

#17. There is a problem with a customer’s order. What do you do?

This question lets you show your problem-solving skills and customer service. When answering, you can give a specific example of how you solved a similar problem before.

Example: “When a customer’s order has a problem, I make sure the customer feels listened to and respected. I listen to their issues and ask questions to understand what went wrong. Then, I fix the problem fast and well. This could mean giving a new dish or a refund if needed. I aim to make the customer happy and satisfied. I also learn from any mistakes to prevent similar problems later. I think this makes a good experience for customers and staff.”

#18. How do you handle difficult customers?

This question shows your skills to handle difficult situations and customers. In your answer, give an example of how you dealt with a tough customer before. Tell what you did to fix the situation.

Example: “I know that difficult customers can be hard, but I can handle them. I stay professional and polite always, but firm if needed. I listen to their issues and try to solve them. If the customer’s requests are unfair or wrong, I tell them why it can’t be done and offer other options. I make sure the customer is happy with the service.”

#19. Have you ever encountered a situation where the customer was wrong, but you still had to remain diplomatic?

This question shows how you deal with conflict and tough situations. In your answer, tell what you did to fix the situation and keep a good relationship with the customer.

Example: “Yes, I faced a situation where the customer was wrong but I was still diplomatic. Once, a customer wanted their food cooked differently than they ordered. I didn’t get mad or argue, I explained why it couldn’t be done and suggested another option. I was polite and professional the whole time and the customer agreed with me. This taught me to be calm and creative with customers, even when they’re wrong.”

#20. Describe how you would help other waitresses if they need assistance on their tables.

This question shows how you cooperate with your colleagues and help them. When answering, think of a time you helped a coworker before and how they reacted to show that you like helping others succeed.

Example: “I always help another waitress if they need it. I learned from waitressing how teamwork and collaboration make great customer service. I check the situation and see if it’s quick or not. If it needs more time, I offer my help. I want customers to enjoy their dining, so I help other waitresses when they need it. I also make an environment where everyone can ask for help.”

FAQs

How do you introduce yourself in a waitress interview?

The best candidate will show their positive attitude, their teamwork skills, and their desire to learn new skills. Sample Answer: I work hard and I’m always ready to learn new things. I have experience in a fast-paced environment and I can deal with stress well.

Why should I hire you as a waiter?

A good waiter or waitress has experience and great customer service skills, a good eye for detail, and the ability to work fast. They can multitask well and handle tough situations with ease.

Why do you choose to be a waitress?

Example answer: ‘I enjoy being a waitress because I like meeting people and giving great customer care. I love seeing people happy with their food and having fun. I also do well when busy, so a busy restaurant would be good for me.

How do I sell myself as a waitress?

Be truthful about your work history and experience when asked. Show skills you’ve learned that will make you a great team member. If you have industry experience, show certifications or training you’ve got, like alcohol service training.

What are your weaknesses as a waiter?

Answer: My weakness is doing too much at once because I want every customer to be happy and comfortable. But I have to learn to slow down and prioritize so I don’t get stressed.

Conclusion

To prepare for a waitress interview, you should research the common questions and practice your answers.

You should also highlight your skills, experience, and personality that make you a great waitress. By doing this, you can impress the interviewer and increase your chances of getting the job. Good luck!

References

Sfceurope.com – 20 COMMON WAITRESS INTERVIEW QUESTIONS (AND HOW TO ANSWER THEM)
Indeed.com – Waitress Interview Questions