Describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision in the kitchen. How did you approach it?

Sample answer to the question

One difficult decision I had to make in the kitchen was when we received a large order for a catering event, but one of our key ingredients was missing. I approached the situation by first assessing our available ingredients and brainstorming alternative options. I quickly communicated the issue to the kitchen staff and we worked together to come up with a substitute ingredient that would still deliver a great taste. We adjusted the recipe and taste-tested it to ensure it met our standards. The event was a success and the clients were happy with the food. This experience taught me the importance of adaptability and quick thinking when faced with unexpected challenges.

A more solid answer

As a kitchen supervisor, I have encountered numerous difficult decisions in the kitchen. One specific example was when a supplier delivered the wrong type of fish for an important dinner service. I immediately realized the error and knew we couldn't serve the incorrect fish to the customers. I gathered my team together and explained the situation, emphasizing the importance of maintaining high standards and customer satisfaction. We quickly brainstormed alternative menu options that could be prepared with the available ingredients. I assigned tasks to each team member and closely monitored their progress to ensure the dishes were executed correctly. Additionally, I communicated with the front-of-house staff to inform them of the menu change and manage customer expectations. The dinner service ran smoothly, and customers praised the new dishes. This experience showcased my leadership and team management skills, effective communication with both kitchen and front-of-house staff, as well as my attention to detail in maintaining food quality and customer satisfaction.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides a more comprehensive response by including specific details and examples. It demonstrates the candidate's leadership and team management skills, effective communication, problem-solving, attention to detail, and adaptability. However, it could further improve by discussing the candidate's ability to work within budget and cost controls, as mentioned in the job description.

An exceptional answer

One challenging decision I faced as a kitchen supervisor was when we had an unexpected equipment malfunction during a busy lunch service. The grill, which was essential for cooking burgers and sandwiches, suddenly stopped working. I quickly assessed the situation and identified the problem: a faulty gas connection. Instead of shutting down the entire operation and disappointing customers, I immediately sought help from the maintenance department and enlisted the support of additional kitchen staff to assist with alternative cooking methods. I efficiently communicated the issue to the waitstaff, informing them of potential delays in food preparation. While the waitstaff managed customer expectations, I supervised the improvised cooking methods, ensuring quality and consistency. The maintenance team swiftly resolved the equipment issue, and we smoothly transitioned back to the regular cooking process. Despite the temporary setback, we managed to maintain customer satisfaction and minimize any negative impact on our business. This experience highlighted my ability to remain calm under pressure, problem-solve efficiently, and work collaboratively to overcome unexpected challenges.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer goes above and beyond by describing a more challenging and complex situation in the kitchen. It showcases the candidate's ability to handle high-pressure situations, problem-solve efficiently, work collaboratively, and effectively communicate with both kitchen staff and front-of-house. The answer also demonstrates adaptability and adhering to health and safety regulations by involving the maintenance department and ensuring quality and consistency during the alternative cooking methods.

How to prepare for this question

Reflect on past experiences in the kitchen where you faced difficult decisions. Consider examples that demonstrate your leadership, problem-solving, and adaptability skills.
Think about how you can incorporate specific details and examples into your response to provide a comprehensive answer.
Review the job description and highlight any relevant skills or qualifications mentioned. Make sure to address those skills in your response.
Practice your response to ensure it flows naturally and includes all the necessary information.

What interviewers are evaluating

Leadership and team management
Effective communication
Problem-solving
Attention to detail
Adaptability and the ability to work under pressure