New! No-hassle virtual interviewing free on Indeed

There's no software to download or meeting links for you to manage. Here's how it works.

Step 1

Post your job

Reach the world's largest pool of job seekers when you post on Indeed. As candidates apply, you can connect with them on the platform.

Step 2

Schedule a conversation

Our virtual interview experience is the default when you schedule time with your candidate.

Step 3

Connect with your candidate

When the candidate accepts your interview invite, you'll both get an email with a link to your video conference. Open the link to test your connection, and get started. It's that easy.

Get started

Banquet Server Interview Questions

Post a Job
Are you a job seeker? Find jobs
  1. Tell me about a time in which checking with a customer to make sure they were enjoying their meal helped you to resolve a problem. See answer
  2. Do you have any experience memorizing menus or writing down diners’ food orders as a banquet server? See answer
  3. Tell me about a time where you had to prepare a dish for patrons as a banquet server. See answer
  4. Tell me about a time in which you effectively kept service areas stocked with supplies for diners, such as silverware and napkins. See answer
  5. What methods do you use to keep tables and counters clean when serving banquets?
  6. Due to a miscommunication among the kitchen staff, you’ve given the wrong dish to a customer. How do you handle this?
  7. Personality can have a major impact on this job. Tell me about the qualities that make you a great banquet server.
  8. In your previous job, tell me about your responsibilities.
  9. What are your protocols for maintaining cleanliness during an event?
  10. Another banquet server criticizes your performance. How do you handle it?
  11. We value our patrons. What is your approach for developing customer relationships?
  12. Tell me about your experience in operating culinary equipment such as coffee machines, food processors and mixers.
  13. Describe the quick cleaning and deep cleaning methods you use to maintain a sanitary event area.
  14. Presentation is an important part of this job. What are the things you double-check before a shift starts.
  15. This job requires physical dexterity. How do you stay fit for this job?
Show more questions Show fewer questions

6 Banquet Server Interview Questions and Answers

Q:

Tell me about a time in which checking with a customer to make sure they were enjoying their meal helped you to resolve a problem.

A:

The ideal candidate must be able to make polite conversation with each guest that sits down at the table. Focus on how the applicant determined what the problem was and how quickly they were able to solve it by using interpersonal skills. An individual with experience talking to banquet diners is more likely to solve problems quickly and without the assistance of upper management. What to look for in an answer:

  • Recollection of an example with ease
  • Genuine concern for guest-related issues
  • Sophisticated interpersonal skills

Example:

“After asking the customer if they were enjoying their meal, I was informed that it was missing key elements. I was able to correct this problem by apologizing and providing a complimentary dessert along with a new entree.”

Q:

Do you have any experience memorizing menus or writing down diners’ food orders as a banquet server?

A:

Some banquet server positions do not require them to memorize or write down the diner’s order; however, it is an excellent skill to have as a banquet server. If the applicant can remember customers’ orders, it is likely they can memorize menus and explain ingredients in daily specials. Focus on the applicant’s tone and confidence when providing their response. What to look for in an answer:

  • How they memorize or record diners’ food orders
  • Knowledge of vast menus and entree ingredients
  • Confidence in their skills

Example:

“At my previous banquet server position, I memorized the entire dinner menu. I always inform customers of ingredients in our entrees so that I can lower the risk of allergic reactions.”

Q:

Tell me about a time where you had to prepare a dish for patrons as a banquet server.

A:

Banquet servers are typically required to make less elaborate entrees for diners, including omelets, milkshakes and even french fries. The ideal candidate should know how to cook meals with prepared ingredients for customers. Identify what types of meals the candidate has cooked in the past, and focus on what meals your company requires banquet servers to prepare. What to look for in an answer:

  • Experience with preparing simple dishes for patrons
  • Willingness to learn how to make a variety of meals
  • Working knowledge of how to operate kitchen equipment

Example:

“I have prepared everything from cheeseburgers to milkshakes for diners. As a banquet server, I learned how to operate a professional blender and a flat top grill.”

Q:

What method do you use to keep tables and counters clean when serving banquets?

A:

The ideal candidate should have exceptional cleaning techniques as they are regularly cleaning up after diners. Identify any quick cleaning methods the applicant mentions as well as any deep-cleaning methods. Does the applicant keep a cleaning rag in their apron when serving? The applicant’s answer should help you determine if they are aware of the cleanliness of the dining and serving area. What to look for in an answer:

  • An understanding of the importance of a clean workspace
  • Ability to clean up spills quickly
  • Knowledge of quick cleaning and deep-cleaning methods

Example:

“In my last position, I would carry four rags and a cleaning spray in my apron. Whenever a spill occurred on the banquet table or dining table, I would wipe it up before moving onto my next task.”

Q:

Tell me about a time in which you effectively kept service areas stocked with supplies for diners, such as silverware and napkins.

A:

An excellent banquet server is always thinking ahead. The ideal applicant will have experience keeping service areas stocked so that diners can eat their meals without running out of silverware, straws or napkins. Focus on the candidate’s ability to convey their story. Do they show awareness of why keeping service areas stocked is vital for time management as a banquet server? What to look for in an answer:

  • An understanding of the importance of time management
  • Experience stocking service areas
  • Awareness of the supplies needed to keep service areas fully stocked

Example:

“At my previous position, I checked the service areas five times per shift because I wanted to ensure that supplies never ran low. I realized early on that preparing before the dinner rush helped increase my efficiency.”

Q:

Due to a miscommunication among the kitchen staff, you've given the wrong dish to a customer. How do you handle this?

A:

Banquet servers should be able to handle setbacks and deliver superior customer service. An employer can use this question to identify candidates with the necessary abilities to maintain and build relationships with patrons. A skilled banquet server candidate would articulate a sensible approach for dealing with the problem.

A candidate's answer should emphasize:

  • Ability to build a relationship with a customer even in a difficult situation
  • Evidence of being a dependable worker for large events
  • Strong communication, problem-solving and customer service skills

An example answer to this question could look like this:

Example:

"I would inform the customer immediately of the issue and apologize even if they have not noticed they received the wrong dish. Next, I would bring the patron the correct dish and check to ensure they are satisfied with it. After getting permission from the shift manager, I would offer the customer a complimentary menu item of their choice, apologizing again for the mistake."

Post a Job
Are you a job seeker? Find jobs
Ready to get started? Post a Job

Explore Interview Questions by Title

A-C D-H I-L M-P Q-S T-Z
No search results found

    *Indeed provides this information as a courtesy to users of this site. Please note that we are not your career or legal advisor, and none of the information provided herein guarantees a job offer.