20 First Watch Interview Questions and Answers

When it comes to interviews, every company has their own unique process. First Watch is no different. If you’re interviewing at First Watch, you can expect to be asked questions about your experience in the restaurant industry, as well as your availability and flexibility. You may also be asked behavioral interview questions, such as “Tell me about a time when you had to deal with a difficult customer.”

No matter what kind of questions you’re asked, it’s important to be prepared. In this article, we’ll give you a rundown of some of the most common questions asked in a First Watch interview, so you can go into your interview with confidence.

First Watch Interview Process

The interview process at First Watch is generally pretty casual. They mostly ask questions about prior work experience and how you would handle a stressful situation. For server positions, they are mostly interested in positive minded people with energetic personalities. The interview process for waitress positions is usually pretty simple and easy. It usually only takes about ten minutes. For operations manager positions, there is usually a phone interview with HR followed by an interview with the director of operations and then a final interview with the regional manager. For dishwasher positions, sometimes the manager is too busy to interview and will cancel or not show up. In that case, one of the waiters may try to reschedule but it doesn’t always happen. For food server positions, the interview is usually pretty straightforward and to the point. They will ask about why you want to work there and what qualifications you have. For host positions, the interviewer will usually go over what a day working at the restaurant is like. For cook positions, the interview is usually just a conversation about experience and background. For server positions, the interview is usually pretty fast and friendly. They will ask about previous serving experience and if you have a positive attitude. For customer service representative positions, the interview is usually pretty short and smooth. However, sometimes

1. How would you approach a customer who was unhappy with their food?

This question can help interviewers understand how you handle customer complaints. It’s important to be empathetic and respectful when handling a complaint, even if the customer is being rude or unreasonable.

Example: “I would first apologize for their dissatisfaction with their food. I would then ask what they didn’t like about it so that I could make sure we don’t serve that dish again. If there was something wrong with the order, I would offer them a discount on their next visit. If they were just unhappy with the taste of the food, I would explain that everyone has different tastes and opinions.”

2. What is your experience working in the restaurant industry?

This question is an opportunity to share your experience with the interviewer. If you have previous experience, it’s a great time to highlight any skills or qualities that helped you succeed in your past roles.

Example: “I worked as a server at a local restaurant for three years before coming to First Watch. I learned how to work quickly and efficiently while still providing excellent customer service. I also developed my communication skills by interacting with customers of all ages and backgrounds. These experiences taught me valuable lessons about working in a team environment and managing stress.”

3. Give an example of when you had to solve a problem that wasn’t straightforward. How did you handle it?

First Watch is looking for employees who can solve problems and think creatively. This question helps employers understand how you approach a problem, as well as your thought process when solving it.

Example: “At my previous job, I had to handle a situation where one of our servers was having an off day. The server wasn’t paying attention to the customers’ needs and forgot several orders. When this happened, I went over to the table and apologized for the mistake. I offered them a free dessert or drink on us to make up for the inconvenience. They were happy with that solution and we didn’t lose any business because of the incident.”

4. Describe a time when you worked under pressure, how did you perform?

This question is a great way to assess how well you perform under pressure. It’s important for employers to know that you can handle stressful situations and still produce quality work. In your answer, try to describe the situation in detail and explain what actions you took to overcome it.

Example: “When I was working as a server at my previous job, we were extremely busy one day. We had more customers than servers, so I volunteered to help out with some of the tables. One table ordered an appetizer, entree and dessert all at once. I knew I would have to multitask between each course while also taking care of other tables. I stayed calm and focused on getting everything done quickly and efficiently.”

5. Tell me about a time when you were able to resolve a conflict between two customers or employees. How did you do it?

The interviewer may ask you this question to assess your conflict resolution skills. This is an important skill for any restaurant employee, as conflicts can arise between customers and employees or among staff members. In your answer, try to demonstrate that you are able to listen to both sides of the story and come up with a solution that benefits everyone involved.

Example: “In my previous role at a family-owned Italian restaurant, I had two servers who were constantly arguing about whose tables they should take when it was time to seat guests. One server wanted to take all the larger parties because she felt like she could make more money from them, while the other server preferred smaller groups so she could spend more time talking to her guests. I talked to each server separately and asked them what their goals were. After hearing their answers, I decided to create a system where each server would get a certain number of large parties per night.”

6. What kind of environment are you most comfortable working in?

This question can help the interviewer determine if your personality and work style is a good fit for their restaurant. You should answer honestly, but also try to highlight any skills you have that would make you successful in this environment.

Example: “I am most comfortable working in an environment where I can be myself and show my creativity. In my last position, we had a lot of freedom when it came to creating new dishes and coming up with unique specials. This led to some really fun ideas that our customers loved. I think I could bring those same ideas to First Watch.”

7. Do you have any experience as a server?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have experience working in a fast-paced environment and how well you perform under pressure. If you do, share an example of a time when you performed exceptionally well. If you don’t, explain what skills you possess that will allow you to excel in this role.

Example: “I worked as a server at a local restaurant for two years while I was in college. During my time there, I learned how to multitask and prioritize tasks so I could provide excellent service to customers. I also developed strong communication skills and customer service skills.”

8. Why do you want to work at First Watch?

This question is a great way for employers to learn more about your personality and values. They want to know that you are passionate about their company, its mission and the work it does. When answering this question, try to highlight aspects of First Watch that excite you.

Example: “I’ve always been passionate about food, so when I saw an ad for First Watch, I knew I had to apply. The restaurant’s commitment to fresh ingredients and local sourcing really resonated with me. I also love how family-friendly the atmosphere is here. It seems like everyone who works here genuinely cares about each other and the customers.”

9. If hired, what would be your first priority on your first day?

This question is a great way to learn more about the candidate’s work ethic and what they value. It also helps you understand how prepared they are for their first day on the job. When answering this question, it can be helpful to think of something that will help your restaurant succeed or improve in some way.

Example: “My first priority would be learning everything I could about the menu and specials. I want to make sure my customers have an excellent experience when they come in, so I’d like to know as much as possible about our offerings. I’m also a big fan of customer service, so I’d spend time talking with staff members to see if there are any ways we can improve our interactions with guests.”

10. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Employers ask this question to see if you have a plan for your career. They want to know that you are motivated and ambitious, so they can be sure you will stay with the company for a long time. When answering this question, make sure you show them that you are passionate about what you do and where you want to go in life.

Example: “I am hoping to become a manager by then. I would love to work my way up through the ranks at First Watch and eventually lead a team of my own. I think it is important to always challenge yourself and learn new things, so I hope to continue working here as I move forward.”

11. When was the last time you were part of a team project and there was conflict within the group, how did you handle it?

This question is an opportunity to show your problem-solving and conflict resolution skills. When answering this question, it can be helpful to describe a specific situation where you were part of a team project that had conflict and how you handled the situation.

Example: “In my last position as a server at a local restaurant, I was part of a large group project with other servers and bartenders. We all worked together to create a new menu for the restaurant. During our planning meeting, we discussed what items would be on the menu and who would prepare them. One of the cooks wanted to make everything from scratch, while another cook wanted to use pre-made ingredients. I helped facilitate a compromise between the two cooks so they could both get what they needed.”

12. Are you available for weekend shifts?

First Watch is a breakfast and lunch restaurant that operates on weekends. Interviewers ask this question to make sure you are available for weekend shifts. In your answer, let the interviewer know which days of the week you are available to work. If you have any flexibility with your schedule, mention it as well.

Example: “I am available every day of the week except Sunday. I would love to work at First Watch because I enjoy working in restaurants where there’s always a lot of activity going on. I’m also excited about the opportunity to learn more about making breakfast and lunch.”

13. What is your greatest strength/weakness?

This question is a classic interview question that allows you to highlight your strengths and weaknesses. When answering this question, it can be helpful to think about the skills you have developed over time or any personal qualities that make you unique.

Example: “My greatest strength is my ability to multitask. I am able to manage many tasks at once while still maintaining quality work. My weakness would be my perfectionism. While I strive for excellence in all of my work, sometimes I take longer than necessary to complete projects because I want them to be perfect.”

14. What type of manager motivates you the most?

This question can help the interviewer understand your management style and how you would fit into their organization. It’s important to be honest about what motivates you, but it’s also helpful to consider what type of manager you are so that you can match your answer with the person who best fits your preferences.

Example: “I am motivated by a leader who is approachable and friendly. I like managers who make time for one-on-one meetings and who listen to their employees’ ideas and concerns. I think this kind of leadership creates an environment where people feel comfortable taking risks and making mistakes because they know they will be supported.”

15. Provide an example of a time when you had to make decisions about a process without consulting your direct manager.

This question can help interviewers understand how you make decisions and solve problems on your own. Use examples from previous jobs to show that you’re capable of independent thought and problem-solving skills.

Example: “In my last position, I was responsible for ordering supplies for the restaurant. My manager wasn’t available one day when I needed to order new plates and silverware. I had to look at our inventory levels and decide whether we could wait until my manager returned or if we should place an emergency order. I decided to place the order so we wouldn’t run out of plates and utensils during peak hours.”

16. Tell us about a time where you weren’t satisfied with the way something turned out.

This question can help employers understand how you handle challenges and learn from your mistakes. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a time when you learned something new or improved upon an aspect of your job.

Example: “When I first started working at First Watch, I was responsible for making sure the restaurant had enough food on hand to serve customers throughout the day. One morning, I noticed we were running low on some menu items. Rather than ordering more right away, I decided to wait until later in the day to see if any customers ordered those items. Unfortunately, no one did, so I ended up having to order more food that afternoon. After that experience, I learned to always order extra food to ensure we have plenty on hand.”

17. Tell us about a time when someone came to you with a problem, how did you help them?

This question can help the interviewer get a better idea of how you handle conflict and solve problems. Use your answer to highlight your problem-solving skills, communication abilities and leadership qualities.

Example: “When I was working as a server at a local restaurant, one of my coworkers came to me with a problem. She had accidentally overcharged a customer for their meal, but she didn’t know what to do about it. I told her that we should give the money back to the customer and apologize. We did just that, and the customer was very understanding.”

18. What are some goals you have set for yourself?

This question can help the interviewer get to know you better and see if your goals align with those of First Watch. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a few specific goals that are relevant to the position you’re applying for.

Example: “I have always wanted to work in a restaurant where I could make delicious food for others. My goal is to become an expert at making pancakes and waffles so that I can share my knowledge with other employees. Another goal I have is to learn how to use all of the kitchen equipment we have here at First Watch.”

19. Why should we hire you?

This question is a great way for employers to learn more about your qualifications and why you’re the best candidate for the job. When answering this question, it can be helpful to highlight any skills or experience that directly relates to the position.

Example: “I believe I am the best candidate for this position because of my previous experience working in a fast-paced environment. In my last role as a server at a busy restaurant, I learned how to multitask while maintaining excellent customer service. This skill has helped me become an efficient employee who can work well under pressure.”

20. What would you say your leadership style is?

This question can help employers determine if you would be a good fit for their team. They want to know that you are able to lead your team and inspire them to do their best work. When answering this question, it can be helpful to think about what leadership style you have. You can also talk about the qualities of other leadership styles that you admire.

Example: “I believe my leadership style is one of collaboration. I like to get input from everyone on my team before making decisions. This helps me make sure we’re all working toward the same goals. I also find that when I collaborate with others, they feel more invested in the outcome. It’s important to me that everyone feels valued and appreciated.”