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September 16, 2025
Smart Hiring: 8 Interview Questions That Work
Finding experienced hospitality staff is tough. Finding reliable hospitality staff? Even tougher. So what do you do when your best candidate has zero industry experience? You stop focusing on resumes—and start asking the right questions. The truth is, most of the traits that make someone a killer bartender, server, or door host aren’t taught. They’re natural instincts: communication, hustle, grace under pressure, and knowing how to read people. Here are interview questions designed for first-timers—questions that don’t just screen for experience, but spot potential.
1. “Tell me about a time you had to deal with a difficult person.”
Whether it was a retail customer, a classmate, or a coworker, this question uncovers:
- Emotional intelligence
- Patience
- Communication style
- Ability to stay calm when things get tense
You’re looking for self-awareness, not just the story.
2. “What do you do when things get stressful or chaotic?”
Nightlife runs on pressure—especially around last call. Even if they’ve never handled a Saturday night rush, this question reveals:
- Their natural coping mechanisms
- How they prioritize tasks
- Whether they crumble or push through
Look for answers that mention staying calm, asking for help, or organizing themselves.
3. “Tell me about a time you had to learn something new quickly.”
Hospitality is fast-paced. If they can’t pick things up quick, they’ll fall behind. This question tests:
- Coachability
- Resourcefulness
- Whether they panic when they’re out of their depth
Best answers show they wanted to learn, not just that they had to.
4. “What would you do if a customer was upset, but you weren’t sure what went wrong?”
This scenario-based question tests:
- Communication
- Empathy
- Problem-solving without panic
Look for language like “I’d listen first,” “ask questions,” or “get help if needed.” That’s gold.
5. “What do you think makes great customer service?”
Even if they’ve never worked in service, they’ve experienced it. This tells you:
- Their instincts
- What they value
- How they’ll represent your brand
Strong answers mention speed, friendliness, attention to detail, and remembering guests.
6. “Can you give me an example of a time you had to work as part of a team?”
You want someone who plays well with others, especially in tight, high-pressure environments. Good answers show:
- Team spirit
- Communication
- Accountability
Red flag: anyone who only talks about doing everything themselves.
7. “This job means late nights, weekends, and sometimes last-minute schedule changes. Can you handle that?”
You’re not just checking availability—you’re gauging realistic expectations. Be upfront. Let them opt out before they flake mid-shift.
8. “Why do you want to work here?”
Even if they’re new to the industry, they should have a reason. Maybe it’s your reputation, the vibe, the music, or just a foot in the door. Doesn’t matter—what you don’t want is, “I dunno, I just need a job.”
Final Thoughts
Hiring entry-level hospitality staff doesn’t mean lowering your standards. It means learning to spot raw potential—and asking questions that reveal mindset, not just skill.
Great venues are built on great teams. Start building yours from the interview chair.
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