How to Conduct a Successful FOH Staff Interview

Hiring the right front-of-house (FOH) staff is crucial for creating an exceptional dining experience and ensuring customer satisfaction. Conducting effective interviews plays a vital role in identifying the best candidates who align with your restaurant's values and deliver top-notch service. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to conduct a successful FOH staff interview:

• Prepare for Success: Before the interview, review the job description, candidate resumes, and create a list of relevant interview questions. This will help you evaluate their skills, experience, and suitability for the position.

• Create a Welcoming Environment: Set the stage for a comfortable and positive interview experience. Greet candidates warmly, introduce yourself and the interview panel, and explain the interview process.

• Assess Communication Skills: Effective communication is essential for FOH staff. Ask candidates about their experience in customer service roles, how they handle challenging situations, and their ability to work within a team.

• Gauge Industry Knowledge: Evaluate candidates' knowledge of the hospitality industry and their understanding of your restaurant's concept. Inquire about their familiarity with the menu, their ability to make recommendations, and their knowledge of common food allergies and dietary restrictions.

• Evaluate Problem-Solving Abilities: Pose scenario-based questions to assess candidates' problem-solving skills. For example, ask how they would handle an upset customer or resolve a conflict between team members.

• Emphasise Customer Focus: Customer satisfaction is paramount in the hospitality industry. Inquire about candidates' approach to delivering exceptional service, handling customer feedback, and going above and beyond to exceed expectations.

• Cultural Fit Assessment: Evaluate whether candidates align with your restaurant's values and culture. Ask about their work ethic, their ability to adapt to fast-paced environments, and their passion for the industry.

• Provide an Opportunity for Questions: Allow candidates to ask questions about the role, work environment, career growth opportunities, and expectations. This demonstrates their engagement and helps you assess their genuine interest in the position.

• Take Notes and Compare: After each interview, make detailed notes to help you remember each candidate's strengths, weaknesses, and overall impression. This will assist you in making informed decisions during the selection process.

• Follow-Up and Feedback: After conducting interviews, provide timely feedback to candidates. This fosters a positive candidate experience and reflects your professionalism as an employer.

Conducting effective FOH staff interviews is a critical step in building a high-performing team. By following these guidelines and evaluating candidates thoroughly, you can select the right individuals who will contribute to the success of your restaurant and create memorable dining experiences for your guests.

• How many interview rounds should I conduct for FOH staff positions?

  It's recommended to conduct at least two interview rounds. The first round can focus on assessing basic qualifications and fit, while the second round can delve deeper into specific skills and scenarios.

• What qualities should I look for in FOH staff candidates?

  Look for candidates who demonstrate excellent communication skills, a customer-centric approach, adaptability, teamwork, problem-solving abilities, and a genuine passion for hospitality.

• Should I conduct reference checks for FOH staff candidates?

  Yes, conducting reference checks can provide valuable insights into a candidate's work history, performance, and reliability. It helps verify the information provided during the interview process.