How would you support the wait staff in serving guests?

Sample answer to the question

As a steward, my main role is to support the wait staff in serving guests. I do this by clearing tables, refilling water glasses, and assisting with any special requests from the guests. I also help in preparing the dining area for new diners by setting tables and ensuring that all utensils and condiments are properly placed. Additionally, I support the kitchen staff by restocking supplies and assisting with food preparation when needed. Overall, I strive to provide excellent customer service and ensure that guests have a pleasant dining experience.

A more solid answer

As a steward, I support the wait staff in serving guests by effectively utilizing my communication and interpersonal skills. I ensure clear and prompt communication with the wait staff to understand their needs and provide assistance accordingly. In a fast-paced environment, I prioritize tasks based on urgency and work efficiently to deliver exceptional service. I have a strong attention to detail and organizational skills, ensuring that tables are properly set, utensils and condiments are readily available, and the dining area is kept clean and organized. I am a team player and collaborate with the wait staff to ensure the smooth flow of service. I am always eager to learn and adapt, readily taking on new tasks and responsibilities to enhance the guest experience.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides more specific details about the candidate's abilities and experiences in each area mentioned in the job description. It highlights their effective utilization of communication and interpersonal skills, efficiency in a fast-paced environment, strong organizational skills and attention to detail, being a team player, and their willingness to learn and adapt. However, it can still be improved by providing more specific examples and achievements related to supporting the wait staff in serving guests.

An exceptional answer

Supporting the wait staff in serving guests is a top priority for me as a steward. Through my exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, I establish a warm and welcoming atmosphere for guests, ensuring they feel valued and attended to. In fast-paced environments, I thrive, prioritizing tasks based on urgency and coordinating with the wait staff for seamless service. My keen attention to detail and organizational skills are evident in my ability to set tables flawlessly, ensuring the proper placement of utensils and condiments. Additionally, I have received commendations for my quick response to guest requests and prompt clearance of tables, maximizing dining turnover. Being a team player, I actively collaborate with the wait staff, anticipating their needs and proactively providing support. Moreover, my enthusiasm for learning and adapting has led me to take on additional responsibilities such as assisting with menu recommendations and alternative dish options to cater to guest preferences. Overall, my dedication to supporting the wait staff and enhancing the guest experience sets me apart.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer goes above and beyond in providing specific examples and achievements related to supporting the wait staff in serving guests. It highlights the candidate's exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment, attention to detail and organizational skills, being a team player, and their enthusiasm for learning and adapting. The answer demonstrates the candidate's dedication and passion for their role as a steward.

How to prepare for this question

Familiarize yourself with the responsibilities mentioned in the job description, especially those related to supporting the wait staff in serving guests.
Reflect on your past experiences in the hospitality industry or similar field where you have supported the wait staff.
Highlight specific examples that showcase your abilities in communication, efficiency, organization, teamwork, and willingness to learn and adapt.
Practice answering related questions in a concise and confident manner.
Research and familiarize yourself with common food safety and hygiene standards in order to provide a comprehensive answer.

What interviewers are evaluating

Communication and Interpersonal Skills
Efficiency in a fast-paced environment
Organizational Skills and Attention to Detail
Team Player
Willingness to Learn and Adapt