HR Templates | Sample Interview Questions
Host Or Hostess Interview Questions and Answers
Use this list of Host Or Hostess interview questions and answers to gain better insight into your candidates, and make better hiring decisions.
Host Or Hostess overview
When interviewing for a Host or Hostess position, it's important to assess the candidate's customer service skills, ability to handle high-pressure situations, and their overall demeanor. A friendly and welcoming personality is key, as well as the ability to multitask and manage reservations efficiently.
Sample Interview Questions
What do you enjoy most about working in a customer-facing role?
Purpose: To gauge the candidate's passion for customer service.
Sample answer
“I love meeting new people and making their dining experience special. It's rewarding to see happy customers leave with a smile!
How do you handle a busy night with a long waitlist?
Purpose: To assess the candidate's ability to manage stress and multitask.
Sample answer
“I stay calm and organized, keeping guests informed about wait times and ensuring they feel valued while they wait.
Can you describe a time when you turned a negative customer experience into a positive one?
Purpose: To evaluate problem-solving skills and customer service excellence.
Sample answer
“Once, a guest was upset about a long wait. I offered them a complimentary drink and kept them updated, and they left happy and appreciative.
How do you handle phone reservations and walk-ins simultaneously?
Purpose: To understand the candidate's multitasking abilities.
Sample answer
“I prioritize efficiently, ensuring phone reservations are noted promptly while greeting walk-ins with a warm welcome.
How do you keep the atmosphere lively and welcoming for guests?
Purpose: To see how the candidate contributes to the restaurant's ambiance.
Sample answer
“I greet everyone with a smile and engage in light, friendly conversation to make them feel at home.
️ ️ How do you handle a situation where a guest is unhappy with their table?
Purpose: To assess conflict resolution skills.
Sample answer
“I listen to their concerns and do my best to accommodate their preferences, ensuring they feel heard and valued.
What strategies do you use to remember regular customers and their preferences?
Purpose: To evaluate memory and attention to detail.
Sample answer
“I make mental notes and sometimes jot down key details about regulars to ensure they feel recognized and appreciated.
How do you maintain a positive attitude during a long shift?
Purpose: To understand the candidate's stamina and positivity.
Sample answer
“I focus on the positive interactions with guests and remind myself of the importance of my role in their dining experience.
How do you handle a situation where the restaurant is overbooked?
Purpose: To assess crisis management skills.
Sample answer
“I communicate clearly with guests, offering alternatives like the bar area or a later reservation, and keep them updated on wait times.
How do you add a personal touch to your interactions with guests?
Purpose: To see how the candidate personalizes customer service.
Sample answer
“I try to remember small details about guests and use their names whenever possible to make them feel special.
🚨 Red Flags
Look out for these red flags when interviewing candidates for this role:
- Lack of enthusiasm or interest in customer service.
- Inability to handle stress or multitask effectively.
- Poor communication skills.
- Negative attitude or demeanor.
- Inflexibility in handling guest requests or complaints.