Can you give an example of a time when you went above and beyond your job responsibilities?

Sample answer to the question

One example of a time when I went above and beyond my job responsibilities was when I noticed that the dining area was running low on supplies during a busy lunch service. Instead of waiting for someone to instruct me, I took the initiative to restock the condiments, napkins, and utensils without being asked. This allowed the wait staff to focus on serving the guests without having to worry about running out of essential items. Additionally, I saw that one of the tables needed to be cleaned urgently, so I quickly wiped it down and reset it for the next group of diners. By taking these extra steps, I ensured that the guests had a seamless dining experience and helped to maintain the overall cleanliness and organization of the restaurant.

A more solid answer

An instance where I went above and beyond my job responsibilities was during a busy evening shift. I noticed that the wait staff was struggling to keep up with multiple tables, so I proactively stepped in to support them. I took orders from a few tables, ensuring that guests were promptly attended to and their orders were accurately relayed to the kitchen. By doing this, I helped alleviate some of the pressure on the wait staff and ensured that guests received efficient service. Additionally, I noticed that one of the guests had a special dietary restriction, and I took the initiative to speak with the chef and coordinate a modified meal that met their needs. This showed my attention to detail and commitment to providing exceptional customer service. Overall, my willingness to go the extra mile and take on additional responsibilities helped create a positive dining experience for both guests and staff.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides a more detailed example of going above and beyond job responsibilities and incorporates specific skills mentioned in the job description, such as good communication, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment. It also demonstrates teamwork and customer service skills. However, it could be further improved by including specific outcomes and results of the candidate's actions.

An exceptional answer

I can recall a particular instance where I truly exceeded my job responsibilities. During a special event at the hotel, we were understaffed and facing a high volume of guests. I took charge of the situation by coordinating with the chefs, wait staff, and management to ensure the smooth flow of service. I organized a detailed timeline for food preparation, ensured that the dining area was clean and presentable at all times, and personally attended to the needs of VIP guests. Despite the challenges, I managed to create an enjoyable and unforgettable experience for the guests, receiving numerous compliments and commendations from both guests and the management. This experience demonstrated my exceptional organizational skills, ability to handle pressure, and commitment to delivering exceptional customer service.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer goes above and beyond by showcasing a situation where the candidate not only took on additional responsibilities but also demonstrated exceptional skills and accomplishments. It highlights their ability to handle pressure, strong organizational skills, and commitment to delivering exceptional customer service. By mentioning specific outcomes and commendations, the answer creates a compelling narrative of the candidate's exceptional performance.

How to prepare for this question

Reflect on past experiences where you took initiative or went beyond your job responsibilities.
Choose an example that aligns with the skills and traits mentioned in the job description.
Highlight specific outcomes or accomplishments that demonstrate the impact of your actions.
Practice articulating your example in a concise and engaging manner.
Emphasize your willingness to learn and adapt to new tasks, as mentioned in the job description.

What interviewers are evaluating

Initiative
Attention to detail
Teamwork
Customer service