A List of the Top Qualities Hiring Managers Are Looking For When Filling Front of House Positions
While your resume is an essential step in the application process, the extent of your skillset is hardly showcased on paper. Impressing the hiring manager during your in-person interview will be what lands you that job.
Employers are looking for more than just good work experience in your interview. That natural ability to talk to people with genuine enthusiasm and confidence is what working in the front of the house is all about and, ultimately, what brings in the big bucks.
If you’re trying to land a new job in the front of house and need some help preparing for the interview—we’ve broken down the top five qualities hiring managers are looking for, so you can nail that interview.
Preparedness
Prep work is all part of the job, right? Consider this the mise en place for your interview!
Doing a little research and knowing a bit about the company goes a long way in making a solid impression. You’re not expected to know the entire history of the restaurant or bar, but coming to the interview with some general knowledge is vital. Not only does it make you look good, but it can help you develop a genuine answer to the inevitable question, “Why do you want to work here?”.
Interviewers appreciate it when you demonstrate you’ve prepared ahead of time because it gives them a sneak peek of your readiness to work if hired.
Willingness to Adapt
Not everyone is cut out for working in such a fast-paced environment. Hiring managers will be on the lookout for applicants who can literally hit the floor running and multitask effectively. Just remember that each company has a different way of doing things. Prior experience is great, but employers will favor folks who can adapt and learn their way.
Show the interviewer that this old dog can learn new tricks by going into this new experience with an open mind and attitude.
Accountability
Restaurant skills can be taught, but taking accountability for your actions cannot. With floors running short, employers are looking for quality folks they can trust with their business. Accountability means you are responsible for your actions, behaviors, and performance.
It always hurts the ego to screw up a cocktail or run food to the wrong table, but everyone makes mistakes. In the long run, it will help the team if you own up to the blunder and learn from it instead of trying to cover it up. The chef will find out when he has to make another steak for table 7 again anyways.
You can display an aptitude for accountability in the interview by showing up on time, dressing professionally, or sharing the lessons you’ve learned from past mistakes.
Communication Skills
In a restaurant, you will need to be able to communicate effectively with the pass as well as with customers. Good communication within your team allows for the gears of the restaurant machine to run smoothly, especially during the rush.
Exhibit your communication skill set by actively listening to the interviewer when they are talking and responding with a clear and concise answer.
Personality
Working in a restaurant allows you to be yourself more than any other job, so don’t be afraid to let your personality shine during your interview. This job is all about getting along with people after all—just remember to stay friendly and professional. The interviewer wants to get to know you while seeing how well you would vibe with the rest of the team.
Always start with a genuine smile and a firm handshake when introducing yourself to the interviewer. Try to take a deep breath and relax. Go into the interview confidently knowing that you are fun to work with and you are a badass at your job!
Considering these five qualities before your next interview will give you a broader understanding of what the hiring manager is looking for and could give you an advantage. Remember, you wouldn’t have gotten this far if you didn’t have potential.
