F&B professionals: 7 key interview questions to prep for

Preparing for an upcoming interview for an F&B position? You’ve come to the right place then. You won’t go wrong with our “Interview Cheat Sheet” series, where we highlight industry-specific interview questions, complete with our insights into what each question really means, and the best way to answer each.

Let’s get started!

1. What do you enjoy most about working in F&B?

What it means

The interview wants to know what it is about the profession that motivates you and keeps you inspired.

Best way to answer

Drawing from personal experience, talk about the aspects of F&B you find stimulating, e.g. the social interactions, the products or service, rewards vs challenges, etc. Make it personal and specific - this shows passion and authenticity.

2. What are the essential qualities to be successful in F&B, in you opinion?

What it means

It's a subtle way to get a read on your personality and values.

Best way to answer

Identify a few attributes and share your thoughts on why you think they're important. You could also cite an example of a previous manager who embodied these qualities well, whose footsteps you follow in.

3. How important is customer service to you?

What it means

It goes without saying that customer service is possibly the key driving factor in building brand satisfaction and loyalty in the service industry. This question allows the interviewer to gauge your attitude towards customer service and your aptitude for it.

Best way to answer

Acknowledge that customer service can be daunting - human beings are, after all, complex creatures and often difficult to please. This shows a genuine side to your personality, rather than showing artificial enthusiasm for a difficult task. Instead, share your perspective on why good customer service is instrumental for continued business growth.

4. What makes you the right person for this job?

What it means

The interviewer wants to know what makes you a better candidate than your fellow peers vying for the same position. This is your opportunity to sell yourself and be memorable. Keyword being memorable.

Best way to answer

Think about a specific example which demonstrates your unique skills and strengths that set you apart from the crowd. Maybe you have a natural flair for soothing irate customers, or you have an impressive track record in F&B Sales (or whichever specialisation applies to you). Cite a few examples that clearly illustrate your competence and professionalism.

If you've managed to find out about the company's most pressing concerns, this would be the perfect chance for you to suggest solutions and ideas to solve those issues. Show off your creative problem-solving skills, and you'll definitely make a lasting impression.

5. Why do you want to work for this organisation?

What it means

Your potential employer wants to know your motivation for wanting to work with them. Are you merely looking for a job and paycheck, or do you share their passion and work culture?

Best way to answer

You'll need to have done due diligence on the company to answer this well. Show the interviewer that you're familiar with the company's operations and goals by referencing these facts and connecting them with your personal career goals and aspirations. If the company is active in non-profit activities or environmental initiatives, for example, highlight these activities as sources of inspiration for you.

6. What would you say are the biggest challenges of working in F&B and how do you deal with them?

What it means

The interviewer is looking to identify your weaknesses and evaluate how you perform under pressure.

Best way to answer

Cite examples where you were faced with stressful situations and the steps you took in handling them. Don't be afraid to be honest. Tell them about the areas you struggle with most, and what you're doing to address your shortcomings. What matters is to show initiative and willingness to improve and progress.

7. What is your most noteworthy achievement to date?

What it means

The interview wants to see how you sell your achievements, and your application of your skills.

Best way to answer

Think about a specific example which demonstrates your strengths and skills as an F&B professional. If possible, cite an example where you set a new record or introduced a new process that increased the team's sales or productivity for the quarter/year. Be as detailed as possible and include the steps you took to overcome obstacles you encountered along the way.

Final tip: Relax, keep your answers genuine, and ask questions where necessary. You've got this.

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