When you’re applying for a job – no matter the industry – it’s crucial to know what questions to ask at an interview. Yes, you’re the one being interviewed, but you’re also interviewing a prospective employer. At restaurant jobs in particular, you want to understand exactly what you’re getting yourself into. And have a few questions to ask at an interview is very helpful.
Interviewing for a job can rattle the nerves of even the most experienced candidates, so proper preparation is essential. When crafting responses to common interview questions, you also need to prepare your own questions to ask at an interview.
Not only is it important for you to learn as much as possible about the job to make sure it’s a good fit, you’ll also impress the interviewer by asking a few well-thought questions. This shows your genuine interest in the position, rather than simply viewing it as a way to earn a paycheck.
4 Questions to Ask at an Interview for a Restaurant Job
How are issues with dissatisfied guests resolved?
The hospitality industry is all about catering to guests’ needs. With any luck, you’ll primarily work with happy customers who make your job fun, but every once in awhile you’re bound to encounter a few who are less-than-satisfied. It’s important to know how much freedom you’ll have to make the situation right, because dealing with disgruntled customers is even more frustrating when you’re not able to do much to resolve the issue.
Does the position offer room for advancement?
Many jobs start off at entry-level, but have plenty of room for top talent to work their way up the ladder. For example, a server might be able to advance to head server and eventually grow into a managerial role. If you’re interested in career progression, find out during the interview if this is possible with the position.
How would you describe the company culture?
You already know the job sounds great on paper, but if hired, the company culture can either make or break your level of job satisfaction. Use this opportunity to learn more about the shared values and practices the company operates on, to determine if they align with your own. When you have a job where you fit right in with the team, going to work becomes an enjoyable, fulfilling experience.
How is success measured for this position?
Every company has a different definition of success, so find out what it takes to thrive at this organization. For example, if you’re interviewing for a hotel housekeeper position, find out now whether you’ll be evaluated based on the amount of time it takes you to clean each room or the number of perfect quality checks you receive from your supervisor. This is another way to determine whether or not the job is right for you.