Can you provide an example of a time when you had to resolve a problem or issue under pressure?

Sample answer to the question

One time, I was working as the Executive Chef at a busy restaurant during the dinner rush. Suddenly, the gas went out in the kitchen, meaning we couldn't cook anything. The staff panicked, but I remained calm and quickly assessed the situation. I immediately contacted the gas company to report the issue and estimate the repair time. In the meantime, I gathered the team and assigned them alternative tasks. We quickly adapted and started preparing cold dishes and salads. I also collaborated with the front-of-house staff to inform customers about the situation and offer them alternative menu options. Despite the pressure, we were able to maintain a high level of service and customer satisfaction. Once the gas was restored, we seamlessly transitioned back to our regular menu. This experience taught me the importance of staying calm under pressure and finding creative solutions to unexpected challenges.

A more solid answer

I had the opportunity to demonstrate my problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure during my time as the Executive Chef at a popular restaurant. On one occasion, we had a sudden power outage during the lunch rush, leaving us unable to use our kitchen equipment. With a packed restaurant and hungry customers, it was critical to find a solution quickly. I immediately gathered my team and organized a meeting to discuss the situation. We decided to utilize gas burners and portable grills to prepare a limited menu of grilled and roasted dishes. I assigned specific tasks to each team member to ensure a smooth execution. Despite the unexpected setback, we were able to maintain quality and timely service, minimizing customer dissatisfaction. This experience taught me the importance of adaptability, resourcefulness, and effective communication in resolving problems under pressure.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides more details and specific actions taken by the candidate in the given situation. It highlights the candidate's adaptability, resourcefulness, and effective communication skills. However, it can be further improved by adding specific outcomes or results achieved as a result of the candidate's problem-solving skills.

An exceptional answer

As an Executive Chef at a renowned fine dining establishment, I encountered a significant challenge when we experienced a sudden and major malfunction in our oven system just hours before a fully-booked evening service. The situation demanded immediate action, and with limited time available, I quickly assessed the options at hand. Leveraging my strong network within the culinary industry, I contacted a nearby restaurant and arranged to borrow their spare oven system. Despite the logistical challenges, I managed to coordinate the transportation and installation of the borrowed oven system in record time. I then gathered my team and efficiently recalibrated our prep schedule to account for the delayed start. Through effective communication and collaboration, we successfully executed a flawless dinner service, delivering exceptional culinary experiences to our guests. This experience solidified my problem-solving abilities, resourcefulness, and poise under pressure, further enhancing my confidence in managing unexpected situations in high-stakes environments.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer provides a highly detailed and specific example, showcasing the candidate's exceptional problem-solving skills, resourcefulness, and ability to remain composed under pressure. The candidate's ability to leverage their network and arrange for a borrowed oven system demonstrates their strong industry connections and creativity in finding solutions. Additionally, the candidate emphasizes effective communication and collaboration, highlighting their leadership and teamwork abilities. This answer exceeds expectations by showcasing the candidate's outstanding performance in resolving a challenging situation.

How to prepare for this question

Reflect on past experiences in professional and personal contexts where you had to resolve problems or issues under pressure.
Consider the specific challenges faced in those situations and the actions you took to address them.
Highlight the outcomes or results achieved as a result of your problem-solving skills and ability to work under pressure.
Demonstrate your adaptability and resourcefulness by mentioning any creative or innovative solutions you implemented.
Practice articulating your experiences and actions in a concise yet detailed manner, ensuring that you emphasize the evaluation areas mentioned in the job description.
Additionally, familiarize yourself with the culinary industry's common challenges and potential issues that may require problem-solving skills and the ability to work under pressure.

What interviewers are evaluating

Problem-solving skills
Ability to work under pressure
Adaptability