If you’re preparing for a server role interview, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the potential questions you may be asked. These questions often revolve around your serving skills, customer service abilities, and problem-solving skills. In this guide, we offer 10 common server interview questions and sample responses to assist you in your preparation.
| Job Description | A server, also known as a waiter/waitress, is responsible for taking orders and serving food and beverages to guests in our restaurant. They play an important role in guest satisfaction as they are also responsible for checking on customers to ensure that they are enjoying their meals and take action to correct any problems. |
| Skills | Customer service, Communication, Teamwork, Attention to detail, Physical stamina, Multitasking, Basic math, Patience, Positive attitude, Sales skills |
| Industry | Food services, Hospitality |
| Experience Level | Entry level |
| Education Requirements | No formal education required, high school diploma may be preferred |
| Work Environment | Servers work in restaurants, bars, hotels, and other food-serving and drinking establishments. They often work evenings, weekends, and holidays. The work can be hectic and fast-paced. During busy dining periods, they may be under pressure to serve customers quickly and efficiently. |
| Salary Range | $2.13 to $20 per hour, plus tips |
| Career Path | With experience and further training, servers can advance to supervisory roles such as dining room supervisor, assistant manager, or restaurant general manager. Some servers may decide to transfer to other food-service areas, such as catering coordinator or corporate dining server. |
| Popular Companies | Olive Garden, Applebee’s, Red Lobster, Chili’s, TGI Fridays |
Server Interview Questions
Can you describe a time when you had to deal with a difficult customer? How did you handle the situation?
How to Answer:
When answering this question, you should focus on how you used your problem-solving and interpersonal skills to resolve the issue. Explain the situation, what actions you took, and the result of your actions. It’s important to show that you can stay calm under pressure and are committed to providing excellent customer service, even in challenging situations.
Example:
Yes, I recall an instance at my previous job where a customer was upset because their meal was not cooked to their satisfaction. I politely listened to their complaints, validated their feelings, and apologized for the inconvenience. I then offered to have the meal remade or replaced with something else from the menu. The customer chose to have a different dish instead. After their new meal was served, I checked back to make sure they were happy with it. By the end of their visit, the customer thanked me for handling the situation so well and left a positive review online. This experience taught me the importance of patience, understanding, and quick problem-solving in maintaining customer satisfaction.
How do you handle working in a fast-paced, high-stress environment, such as a crowded restaurant during peak hours?
How to Answer:
The interviewer is interested in your ability to stay calm, focused and organized under pressure. Emphasize your ability to prioritize tasks, communicate effectively with your team, and maintain a positive attitude. If you have specific examples from your past work experience, be sure to include them.
Example:
During my previous job at a busy city center restaurant, I often had to manage multiple tables during peak hours. I learned to stay calm and organized by prioritizing tasks and working closely with my team. For example, during a particularly busy evening, I noticed that one of my tables was getting agitated because their food was late. I immediately communicated with the kitchen staff, found out the cause of the delay, and informed the customers. They appreciated my prompt communication and the situation was resolved without any further issues. I believe that effective communication and teamwork are key to managing stress in a fast-paced environment.
How do you ensure the accuracy of a customer’s order?
How to Answer:
The interviewer wants to know how attentive you are to details and how you ensure customer satisfaction. Share a system or method you use to ensure that you get orders right. You might talk about repeating orders back to customers, using written notes or a specific software to track orders, or working closely with the kitchen staff.
Example:
I believe that communication is key to ensuring order accuracy. When I take an order, I make sure to write down everything, including specific requests or modifications. After taking the order, I repeat it back to the customer to confirm. I also communicate closely with the kitchen staff to ensure that the order is prepared exactly according to the customer’s request.
Tell me about a time when you had to balance multiple tasks at once. How did you prioritize?
How to Answer:
When answering this question, it’s important to show the interviewer that you are capable of multitasking effectively. Discuss a specific example when you had to juggle multiple responsibilities and explain how you managed it. Be sure to highlight your ability to prioritize tasks based on their importance and urgency.
Example:
In my previous role as a server at a high-volume restaurant, I often had to balance multiple tasks at once. One busy evening, I was managing several tables, inputting orders into the system, and ensuring that the food was served in a timely manner. I prioritized tasks based on their urgency. For instance, getting orders into the system was my top priority because it ensured that the kitchen could start preparing the food. Next, I focused on serving the food while it was still hot. Despite the pressure, I was able to effectively manage all my tasks and ensure customer satisfaction.
How do you manage to stay organized and ensure that each customer receives their correct order when the restaurant is busy?
How to Answer:
The candidate should focus on their organizational skills and techniques they use to keep track of multiple orders. They should also mention their ability to multitask and stay calm under pressure. Additionally, the ability to communicate effectively with kitchen staff to ensure accurate order preparation should also be highlighted.
Example:
When the restaurant gets busy, I always make sure to remain calm and organized. I write down each order clearly and double-check it before sending it to the kitchen. I also try to keep a mental map of my tables and which customers ordered what. For larger parties, I use a numbering system to keep track of who ordered what. I also communicate closely with the kitchen staff to ensure that each order is prepared correctly. I believe that staying organized and maintaining clear communication are the keys to ensuring that each customer receives their correct order, even when things get hectic.
Can you describe how you handle special dietary requests or allergy concerns from customers?
How to Answer:
The interviewer wants to assess your ability to cater to diverse customer needs. Share your experience dealing with special dietary requirements or allergies and how you ensure the customer’s safety. Mention any specific methods or techniques you use, such as double-checking with the kitchen or using separate utensils. Show your understanding of the importance of this issue and your commitment to customer service.
Example:
In my previous role, I had a lot of experience dealing with customers who had dietary restrictions, from allergies to vegan or gluten-free diets. I made it a practice to know our menu intimately, so I could make knowledgeable recommendations. If I was unsure about an ingredient, I would always double-check with the kitchen. I also made sure to communicate these special orders clearly to the kitchen staff to avoid any mix-ups. I understand the serious consequences that can arise from dietary restrictions, so I take great care to ensure the safety and satisfaction of our customers.
How would you handle a situation where a customer is unhappy with their meal and wants to send it back?
How to Answer:
The interviewer wants to see your customer service skills and your ability to handle challenging situations. A good answer would show empathy towards the customer, communication skills in addressing the issue and a solution-oriented approach. Mention how you would apologize to the customer, communicate the issue to the kitchen staff, and ensure that the customer’s needs are met swiftly.
Example:
First, I would apologize to the customer for the inconvenience and assure them that their satisfaction is our top priority. I would ask them to explain what was wrong with the meal and if they would like a replacement or something else from the menu. Then, I would communicate this to the kitchen staff clearly and quickly, to ensure their new meal is prepared as soon as possible. Once the new meal is served, I would check back with the customer to make sure they are happy with it. I believe clear communication and swift action can turn a negative experience into a positive one.
Describe a time when you had to handle a large party or group at your previous job. How did you ensure everyone was satisfied?
How to Answer:
When answering this question, focus on your ability to manage tasks efficiently, your attention to detail, and your ability to maintain a friendly and professional demeanor even when dealing with a large group. Discuss specific strategies or techniques you used to ensure that all customers were satisfied, such as periodically checking in with each person to make sure they had what they needed, patiently answering questions, and dealing with any issues promptly and professionally.
Example:
At my previous job, I often handled large parties, especially during holiday seasons. One memorable instance was a group of 20 people for a birthday party. To ensure everyone was satisfied, I started by introducing myself to everyone and taking their drink orders. I made sure to remember each person’s name and drink order, which I believe made them feel valued and cared for. I then took their food orders and double-checked to ensure I got everything correct. I also made regular rounds to refill drinks and check if anyone needed anything else. Despite the size of the party, I managed to serve everyone efficiently, and the party was a success. The customers were happy with the service, and the birthday celebrant even left a generous tip.
How do you handle mistakes or errors made during service?
How to Answer:
The interviewer is looking for your ability to admit mistakes, take responsibility, and correct the situation. They want to see you can handle the situation professionally and calmly, without getting flustered or upset. You should speak about the importance of apologizing to the customer, rectifying the mistake promptly, and learning from the experience to avoid similar errors in the future.
Example:
Mistakes are inevitable, but it’s how we handle them that counts. If I make a mistake, I admit it immediately and apologize to the customer. I would then correct the mistake as quickly as possible. For example, if I delivered the wrong dish, I would apologize, take the dish back, and ensure the correct dish is prepared and served promptly. I believe it’s essential to learn from these situations to prevent them from happening in the future.
Can you explain how you would deal with a situation where you have multiple tables requiring your attention at once?
How to Answer:
The interviewer wants to understand how you prioritize tasks and manage your time efficiently. Explain your system for handling multiple tables, and give an example if possible. Describe how you ensure all customers feel attended to and receive excellent service, even when you are busy.
Example:
If I have multiple tables requiring my attention, I prioritize based on their needs. If a table just sat down, I would greet them quickly and let them know I will be back in a moment to take their order. If another table is ready to check out, I would print their bill and let them know I’ll be back to collect it. I always try to make sure each table knows they are a priority and I’m doing my best to attend to their needs promptly. For example, once during a busy shift, I had five tables to attend to. I made sure to keep a mental note of where each table was in their dining experience and prioritize my tasks accordingly. Despite the rush, all my tables were satisfied with their service.