How to Ace a Waitress Interview

Score the job with some interview pointers.

If you have been summoned to a restaurant for a waitress interview, congratulations. The interview is where the rubber meets the road. You can seal the job or blow the opportunity, so be prepared. Whatever the type of restaurant, the basic elements will be the same. You need to present your best side, show off your experience and capabilities and make a strong and enthusiastic first impression to beat the competitors.

Instructions

1. Research the establishment. Go to the establishment's website. Learn about its history, locations (if more than one), menu and other characteristics. Find out who it caters to. Visit the establishment as a customer if you can. Checking out a restaurant in person gives you insight into the food, but in addition the atmosphere and dress of the staff. You may even notice things that might stand improvement. Note these well.

2. Practice your interview. Have a friend help. Be able to talk fluently regarding experience. Have some stories where you have really improved something or made a difference in prior jobs. Prepare an answer regarding weaknesses. Don't say you work too hard. Think of something true for you, something plausible but not too dire, and speak to how you overcame it. Have an answer for why this establishment is your desired place of work.

3. Dress sharply and conservatively. You can emulate employee dress (for those on the floor, not kitchen staff), if they aren't uniformed. In any case, be immaculately clean and well pressed. You are better overdressed than underdressed. Avoid strong scents.

4. Arrive ahead of time. Being late on interviews is not good. Have a backup plan for transportation. An auto breakdown would be most inconvenient. You will also be more relaxed. This is critical. The interview begins immediately. You want to be cool and positive.

5. Use your prepared answers. If you get something unexpected, allow yourself a second. Better to take a second, remain cool and provide a thoughtful response than to rush in. Don't talk too long. Answer questions directly, without extensive elaboration. Keep your attention on the interviewer, even if it's a busy environment.

6. Stay positive. Do not speak badly of others. This goes for former employers. Even if you had problems, find a way to talk about silver linings.

7. Follow up with a thank you note or email. You can address something in the interview, where you were asked for information you did not have, or talk briefly and correct a response you feel you flubbed.

References

• Restaurant Jobs: Interview Tips
• Hospitality HR: Interview Questions