Everyone likes the feeling of being wanted. Show enthusiasm! Don’t appear to be what we in the business call a “shopper” or a “tire kicker”. The “What can you do for me?” approach to interviewing, even in this full-employment economy, gets you a quick exit to the front door. (Sometimes the back door, if you’re particularly offensive).
Always make certain that the company with which you are interviewing feels like they are your first choice, no matter what other companies are involved in your job search. Be certain you have researched their website, have recently eaten in their restaurant and can comment on how much you love their concept.
In the hospitality industry, the hiring manager is judging you on many levels. Your experience is important but as this is a service industry, your attitude and personality play a huge role in determining if there will be a job offer.
Often you will be asked to work “a day in the life” of a restaurant manager as part of the interview process. Be certain to pick up a broom and help, greet the customers, clean the trash off the parking lot and be friendly with the crew.
Attitude goes a very long way in the hospitality industry when the final candidate is selected for the position.
September 16th, 2009 at 8:05 AM
This is so true. I went on an interview and the guy told me about another candidate that was qualified but they weren’t interested because of his personality. Especially in the restaurant industry this is important as it is a service business.
September 16th, 2009 at 8:06 AM
I guess this is important but sometimes it’s hard to be yourself on an interview. I get so nervous.
September 16th, 2009 at 8:06 AM
I agree with Nancy. You do your best but your history and qualifications should count for more than personality.
September 16th, 2009 at 8:09 AM
I love these tips and the whole hiring workshop on your website Patrice. There are many books written where you have to pay for the same info that Patrice gives us for free. Thanks!
September 27th, 2009 at 8:45 PM
You know it’s so true. I recently worked with a restaurant recruitere from another agency and they did nothing to help me get ready for the interview. I don’t think I really needed help, it just would have been nice if they had offered.
September 27th, 2009 at 8:46 PM
It’s kinda funny and I agree because sometimes you don’t know what you don’t know until someone tries to help you.
September 29th, 2009 at 12:28 PM
Do you ever get the feeling it’s not going good in an interview? Not if you follow this advice! This is about the 3rd article I have read on this website about interview tips. They work. Some are common sense and others you can’t find out from anyone, unless they have a close relationship with the hiring company. Great tips, thanks..keep em’ coming.
October 1st, 2009 at 10:06 AM
You think these tips are good, when I spoke to a recruiter he had a ton of tips to help me.
October 1st, 2009 at 1:42 PM
Great tips, with so may people looking for jobs, you have to stand out somehow!
October 7th, 2009 at 1:39 PM
Nancy is right, it’s hard to be yourself on an interview. Especially if you feel like your not connecting with the interviewer. I’m normally a laid back stress free type of guy, but when I interview I sit up straight, I think I’m to attentive, and I feel stiff and tense. I need more tips I guess.
October 13th, 2009 at 11:34 AM
If you have any questions about interview and what not to do, watch the office space interview! “It’s not that I’m lazy, I just dont care.” Not the greatest interview answer!
November 1st, 2009 at 10:29 AM
This is good advice and anyone that wants more tips should go to the Hiring Workshop on this website.
November 2nd, 2009 at 5:34 PM
Thanks for the great info…I have an interview this Friday and I will be using this information!
December 15th, 2009 at 9:57 PM
I just visited your website with all the tips of each stage of an interview and all I can say is Thank You! You give away for free what Gecko was selling on their website! lol Your company is great!
December 21st, 2009 at 1:13 PM
Walter is right, these are great interview tips for free. And here’s the best part if you actually contact a recruiter with Patrice and Associates, the help you with your resume too! They help me, and it’s all free!