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5 Busboy Interview Questions and Answers

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Indeed’s Employer Resource Library helps businesses grow and manage their workforce. With over 15,000 articles in 6 languages, we offer tactical advice, how-tos and best practices to help businesses hire and retain great employees.

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Whether you are preparing to interview a candidate or applying for a job, review our list of top Busboy interview questions and answers.

Hire your next Busboy today.

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Hire your next Busboy today.

Post a job
Our mission

Indeed’s Employer Resource Library helps businesses grow and manage their workforce. With over 15,000 articles in 6 languages, we offer tactical advice, how-tos and best practices to help businesses hire and retain great employees.

Read our editorial guidelines
Create a Culture of Innovation
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How can you help our wait staff work well together as a cohesive team during busy times? 

A busboy is an important player in your business. They will be exposed to your guests more than any other hired worker in your restaurant. It is important to find a busboy able to work well with others so that they make a good impression on your customers. Teamwork is especially important during the breakfast, lunch and dinner rush. What do they know about working as a team? What to look for in an answer:

  • A willingness to cooperate with other staff
  • The desire to represent your restaurant well
  • Practical ideas that support teamwork
Example:

"I'll treat everyone with respect and follow the instructions of my superiors. If an issue arises, I'll try to resolve it quickly or seek help."

Demanding and complaining customers are inevitable. How would you handle a rude guest who is unhappy with their service?

This question aims at understanding the candidate's customer service skills and their ability to show grace under pressure. Your busboy should be able to remain calm and respond to unpleasant customers in a way that seeks to solve their problem when possible. If the busboy cannot resolve the issue, they should be willing to seek out help from someone who can (and without getting overly frustrated). What to look for in an answer:

  • A recognition that guests can be rude
  • Desire to resolve the issue calmly
  • Willingness to ask for help if necessary
Example:

"In my experience, listening to the customer and putting their needs first is the best way to resolve complaints. Also, staying calm is important, and I'll ask for help if I see it's a bigger problem than I can handle."

Do you feel that a busboy is an important job? Why or why not?

Many people see the busboy as an insignificant position. However, the reality couldn't be less true. Busboys are always helping customers, filling up their water, bringing them napkins or making sure they have everything they need. It is an important position. If your candidate doesn't realize that, now would be a good time to inform them. Plus, if you hire them, they will take more pride in their work. What to look for in an answer:

  • An understanding of the importance of a busboy
  • Acknowledgement of their duties
  • Concern for customers and the company
Example:

"Yes, I know it's an important job. A busboy keeps customers happy by filling waters, picking up used plates, bringing napkins and such. No restaurant would succeed without the position."

What is your primary job while you are bussing tables, and how can you do it well?

This question will help you determine the work ethic and efficiency of your candidate. You want a busboy who has an idea of their responsibilities and can demonstrate that they will stay focused on their job while working. They should understand that they are not there to socialize, play on their phones or engage in other non-work-related activities. Also, they should know that their main responsibility is service oriented. What to look for in an answer:

  • Understanding that they are support staff
  • Willingness to serve customers
  • Desire to keep busy and not waste time
Example:

"When bussing tables, I'm there to support the wait staff and help customers. I will stay focused on my job at all times."

How are you able to handle the physical demands of a busboy position?

The answer to this question will demonstrate the physical ability of the applicant. A busboy is required to spend hours walking or standing on their feet all while carrying heavy trays. Plus, they will be working in a fast-paced, demanding environment, keeping up with customers and cleaning tables. A good candidate will understand the physical challenges of a busboy and be prepared to meet them with ease. What to look for in an answer:

  • An understanding of the physical requirements
  • Honesty about their fitness capacity
  • A willingness to push themselves when needed
Example:

"I go to the gym weekly. Plus, I played sports in high school, so I understand what it means to push myself when necessary."

Create a Culture of Innovation
Download our free step-by-step guide for encouraging healthy risk-taking
Get the Guide

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Hire your next Busboy today.

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