25 Front of House Manager Interview Questions and Answers

As the name implies, the front of house manager is responsible for the customer service and overall appearance of the establishment. From greeting guests and seating them to overseeing the waitstaff and ensuring the dining area is clean, the front of house manager is constantly on the go.

If you’re looking to fill this position in your business, you’ll likely be asking interview questions about the candidate’s customer service skills and experience. In this guide, we’ll provide you with some common front of house manager interview questions and answers to help you assess whether the candidate is a good fit for your establishment.

1. Are you comfortable working with a team of people to manage the front of house operations of a business?

Front of house managers often work with a team of people to ensure the success of their business. Employers ask this question to make sure you’re comfortable working in a collaborative environment and that you have experience doing so. If you don’t, share what steps you would take to develop these skills.

Example: “Absolutely. I have extensive experience working with teams to manage front of house operations. In my current role, I lead a team of five people in overseeing the daily operations of the restaurant. We collaborate on tasks such as seating guests, taking orders, and ensuring customer satisfaction. My team works together seamlessly, which has resulted in increased efficiency and improved customer service.

I’m also comfortable delegating responsibilities and providing guidance when needed. I believe that everyone should be given an opportunity to contribute their skills and ideas. This approach has allowed us to come up with creative solutions to problems and develop innovative strategies for improving our services.”

2. What are some of the most important skills for a front of house manager to have?

This question can help the interviewer determine if you have the skills necessary to succeed in this role. You can answer this question by listing some of the most important skills for a front of house manager and explaining why they are important.

Example: “As a Front of House Manager, I believe that the most important skills to have are excellent customer service and communication. It is essential for me to be able to effectively communicate with customers, staff, and management in order to ensure smooth operations.

I also think it’s important to be organized and detail-oriented. As a Front of House Manager, I need to make sure that all tasks are completed on time and that everything runs smoothly. This includes making sure that all orders are taken correctly, that payments are processed accurately, and that any complaints or issues are handled appropriately.

Lastly, I believe that having strong problem-solving skills is key. As a Front of House Manager, I need to be able to quickly identify and resolve any issues that may arise. Whether it’s dealing with an unhappy customer or finding a solution to a staffing issue, I must be able to think on my feet and come up with creative solutions.”

3. How would you deal with a situation where an employee was not meeting your standards?

Front of house managers are responsible for ensuring their employees meet the standards set by management. Interviewers ask this question to see how you would handle a situation where an employee was not meeting your expectations. In your answer, explain what steps you would take to ensure that the employee meets those standards and improves their performance.

Example: “If an employee is not meeting my standards, I would first take the time to understand why. It could be due to a lack of training or resources, or it could be that they are simply having difficulty with the task at hand. Once I have identified the root cause, I can then work on finding a solution. This could involve providing additional training and support, or even delegating tasks to other employees who may be better suited for the job.

I believe in taking a collaborative approach when dealing with any issues in the workplace. I strive to create an open dialogue between myself and my team so that we can all work together to find solutions. By doing this, I am able to ensure that everyone feels heard and respected while also ensuring that our standards are met.”

4. What is your process for evaluating the success of your management strategies?

Front of house managers are responsible for evaluating the success of their strategies and making adjustments as needed. This question helps employers understand your process for assessing how well you’re meeting goals and objectives. In your answer, explain what steps you take to measure performance and make improvements when necessary.

Example: “My process for evaluating the success of my management strategies begins with setting clear goals and objectives. I ensure that everyone on my team understands what is expected of them, and then provide regular feedback to ensure they are meeting those expectations. I also use data-driven metrics to measure performance, such as customer satisfaction surveys or tracking sales figures. This allows me to identify areas where improvements can be made, and take action accordingly. Finally, I regularly review our processes and procedures to make sure we are staying up to date with industry standards and best practices. By taking a comprehensive approach to evaluation, I am able to ensure that my management strategies are successful in achieving our desired outcomes.”

5. Provide an example of a time when you had to deal with a difficult customer.

Front of house managers often have to deal with difficult customers. Employers ask this question to make sure you can handle these situations well. In your answer, try to show that you are able to remain calm and professional in stressful situations. Explain how you would approach the situation if it happened again.

Example: “I recently had to deal with a difficult customer at my current job. The customer was very unhappy about the wait time for their order and began to raise their voice in frustration. I quickly stepped in and apologized for the delay, explaining that we were doing our best to get their order out as soon as possible.

I then offered them a complimentary drink or appetizer while they waited, which seemed to help calm them down. After that, I stayed close by and monitored the situation to make sure it didn’t escalate further. In the end, the customer left happy and satisfied with how I handled the situation. This experience taught me the importance of staying calm and professional when dealing with difficult customers.”

6. If hired, what would be your priorities during your first few weeks on the job?

This question helps employers understand what you consider important and how you plan to make an immediate impact. Prioritizing your goals for the first few weeks of employment can show that you are eager to get started and have a clear idea of what you want to accomplish in your new role.

Example: “If I were hired as a Front of House Manager, my top priority during the first few weeks would be to get to know the team and build relationships with them. This is essential for creating an effective working environment where everyone can collaborate and work together efficiently.

I would also take the time to familiarize myself with all the processes and procedures in place at the business. This will ensure that I am up-to-date on any changes or updates that have been made since I last worked in this role. Finally, I would review customer feedback and use it to identify areas of improvement within the front of house operations. By doing so, I can ensure that we are providing the best possible service to our customers.”

7. What would you do if you noticed a decrease in sales compared to last year?

Front of house managers are responsible for increasing sales and revenue. Interviewers ask this question to see how you would handle a challenging situation like a decrease in sales. In your answer, explain what steps you would take to increase sales or find out why there was a decrease in sales.

Example: “If I noticed a decrease in sales compared to last year, the first thing I would do is analyze the data. This would involve looking at the number of customers served, average ticket size, and any other relevant metrics that could help me identify potential areas for improvement.

Once I have identified potential areas for improvement, I would then develop an action plan to address them. This would include implementing strategies such as increasing marketing efforts, improving customer service, or introducing new menu items.

I would also work closely with my team to ensure they are aware of our goals and objectives so that everyone is working together towards achieving them. Finally, I would monitor progress on a regular basis to make sure we are meeting our targets and adjust our strategy if necessary.”

8. How well do you understand our company’s mission statement and values?

The interviewer may ask this question to assess your understanding of the company’s mission statement and values. This is an important part of being a front of house manager because you will be responsible for ensuring that all employees uphold these standards. Your answer should show that you have read the company’s mission statement and understand how it relates to its day-to-day operations.

Example: “I understand your company’s mission statement and values very well. I have read through the documents you provided, and I am familiar with the core principles that guide your organization. Your mission is to provide exceptional customer service while delivering quality products and services in a timely manner. This resonates with me because it reflects my own personal values of providing excellent customer service and ensuring that all tasks are completed efficiently.

Furthermore, I believe that having strong organizational values is essential for any successful business. I strive to uphold these values by treating every customer with respect and courtesy, as well as making sure that each task is completed accurately and on time. I also take pride in creating a welcoming environment where customers feel comfortable and valued.”

9. Do you have any experience working with a budget for the front of house area?

Interviewers may ask this question to see if you have experience working with a budget and how you might handle one in their establishment. Use your answer to highlight any previous experience managing a budget for the front of house area, including what type of software or tools you used to do so.

Example: “Yes, I have extensive experience working with a budget for the front of house area. During my time as Front of House Manager at my previous job, I was responsible for creating and managing an annual budget for the entire department. This included allocating funds to cover staffing costs, purchasing supplies, and maintaining equipment. I also worked closely with other departments to ensure that our budget aligned with their needs and expectations.

I am very familiar with cost-effective strategies and understand how to maximize resources while still providing excellent customer service. I am confident that I can help your business meet its financial goals while ensuring that customers receive the highest level of service.”

10. When was the last time you attended a training program related to hospitality?

Interviewers ask this question to see if you are committed to your career and want to improve yourself. They also want to know how often they need to train you on new things. Your answer should include a specific training program, the date you attended it and what you learned from it.

Example: “I recently attended a training program related to hospitality at the end of last year. The program was focused on customer service and how to create an exceptional experience for guests. I learned about different strategies to ensure that customers are satisfied with their visit, such as providing personalized attention and offering helpful advice. I also gained insight into how to handle difficult situations in a professional manner and how to address customer complaints.”

11. We want to improve our customer service scores. What ideas do you have for doing so?

Front of house managers are responsible for improving customer service scores. They do this by implementing new ideas and strategies that improve the overall experience customers have with a restaurant. When answering this question, make sure to highlight your ability to think creatively and implement change.

Example: “I believe that customer service is the foundation of any successful business. My experience as a Front of House Manager has taught me how to create an environment where customers feel valued and respected. I have several ideas for improving our customer service scores.

Firstly, I would focus on training staff in effective communication techniques. This includes teaching them active listening skills, so they can better understand customer needs and provide appropriate solutions. Secondly, I would ensure that all employees are knowledgeable about the products and services we offer, so they can answer customer questions quickly and accurately. Finally, I would implement systems to track customer feedback, so we can identify areas of improvement and take action accordingly.”

12. Describe your experience with using POS systems.

Front of house managers are responsible for managing the restaurant’s point-of-sale system. This includes ensuring that servers and bartenders enter orders accurately, taking payments from customers and reconciling cash registers at the end of each shift. Interviewers ask this question to determine whether you have experience using POS systems and how comfortable you are with technology. In your answer, explain which systems you’ve used in the past and what you like about them.

Example: “I have extensive experience with using POS systems. I have been working as a Front of House Manager for the past five years, and during that time I have become very familiar with various types of POS systems. I am comfortable setting up new systems, troubleshooting any issues, and training staff on how to use them.

I understand the importance of having an efficient and reliable POS system in place. It helps streamline operations, improve customer service, and increase sales. I have implemented several successful strategies to maximize the efficiency of our POS systems, such as creating detailed reports and tracking data to identify areas of improvement.”

13. What makes you stand out from other candidates for this position?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your qualifications and how you can contribute to their team. Before your interview, make a list of all the skills and experiences that qualify you for this role. Focus on highlighting your soft skills such as communication, teamwork and problem-solving abilities.

Example: “I believe my experience and qualifications make me an ideal candidate for this position. I have been working in the hospitality industry for over 10 years, with the last 5 years as a Front of House Manager. During that time, I have developed strong leadership skills and a deep understanding of customer service excellence.

My team-building abilities are also noteworthy. I am able to motivate staff members and create a positive work environment. I have implemented successful strategies to increase efficiency and productivity while maintaining high standards of quality. My ability to think quickly on my feet and remain calm under pressure has enabled me to handle challenging situations effectively.

In addition, I have extensive knowledge of food safety regulations and health codes. I am well-versed in POS systems and can easily train new employees on how to use them. Finally, I am passionate about providing exceptional customer service and creating memorable experiences for guests.”

14. Which restaurant or hospitality businesses have you worked for in the past?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your experience and background. They want to know what you’ve learned from previous employers, how much you’ve grown as a professional and if you’re familiar with their business or industry. When answering this question, try to focus on the skills you’ve developed throughout your career that will help you succeed in this role.

Example: “I have worked in the restaurant and hospitality industry for over 10 years. I started my career as a server at a local Italian restaurant, where I quickly gained experience in customer service and managing front of house operations. After that, I moved on to work as a bartender and then a manager at a high-end steakhouse. At this position, I was responsible for overseeing all aspects of the front of house staff, from training new employees to ensuring excellent customer service. Most recently, I was employed as a Front of House Manager at a popular chain restaurant. During my time there, I implemented several successful initiatives to improve customer satisfaction and streamline operational processes.”

15. What do you think is the most important aspect of customer service?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you prioritize your responsibilities as a front of house manager. Your answer should show that you understand what customers value most and are willing to provide it in your establishment.

Example: “The most important aspect of customer service is creating a positive experience for the customer. This means providing excellent service that exceeds their expectations and leaves them feeling valued and appreciated. To do this, I believe it’s essential to have an understanding of the customer’s needs and preferences, as well as being able to anticipate any potential issues before they arise. It’s also important to be friendly and approachable so customers feel comfortable coming to you with questions or concerns. Finally, having an efficient system in place to handle customer requests quickly and accurately is key to ensuring a great customer experience.

As Front of House Manager, I am confident that I can provide all these elements of customer service. My previous experience has given me the skills needed to understand customer needs, build relationships, and create an efficient process for handling customer inquiries. I look forward to bringing my expertise to your team and helping to create a positive customer experience.”

16. How often do you make inventory checks?

Front of house managers are responsible for ensuring that the bar or restaurant has enough supplies to serve customers. Interviewers ask this question to make sure you have experience with inventory management and can complete these tasks efficiently. In your answer, explain how often you perform inventory checks at previous jobs and what steps you take to ensure accuracy.

Example: “I believe that inventory checks are essential to ensure the smooth running of any front of house operation. I make sure to conduct regular and thorough inventory checks at least once a week, or more if necessary. During these checks, I take into account all aspects of the restaurant’s supplies, including food, beverages, linens, and other items. I also keep track of stock levels and order new items when needed. Furthermore, I am always on the lookout for ways to reduce waste and maximize efficiency in our operations. Finally, I use an organized system to record all inventory information so that it is easily accessible for future reference.”

17. There is a decrease in sales compared to last year. What is your strategy to improve sales?

Front of house managers are responsible for increasing sales and ensuring the success of their establishments. Interviewers ask this question to see if you have a plan in place to increase sales at their establishment. In your answer, explain how you would implement strategies that help increase sales.

Example: “My strategy to improve sales would be multi-faceted. First, I would ensure that customer service is top notch and that customers are being treated with respect and kindness. This will help create a positive atmosphere in the restaurant and encourage repeat business.

I would also focus on creating promotions and discounts to draw in new customers while still offering value to existing ones. For example, I could offer a loyalty program or discounted meals for large groups.

In addition, I would use social media to promote our restaurant and its offerings. By creating engaging content and utilizing targeted advertising, we can reach potential customers who may not have heard of us before. Finally, I would analyze our current menu items and make adjustments as needed to better meet customer needs.”

18. What methods do you use to motivate employees?

Front of house managers often need to motivate their employees. Employers ask this question to see if you have experience motivating others and how you do it. In your answer, explain what motivates you and then give an example of how you motivated someone else in the past.

Example: “I believe that motivation is key to a successful team. I use a variety of methods to motivate my employees, depending on the individual and the situation.

One method I find particularly effective is positive reinforcement. By recognizing and rewarding good performance, I can encourage my staff to continue doing their best work. This could be in the form of verbal praise or tangible rewards such as bonus pay or extra time off.

Another way I motivate my staff is by providing them with opportunities for growth and development. I like to give my employees challenging tasks so they can learn new skills and gain experience. I also provide them with feedback and guidance so they can improve their performance and reach their goals.

Lastly, I make sure to create an environment where everyone feels valued and respected. I strive to foster a culture of collaboration and open communication, which helps to build trust and loyalty among my team members.”

19. Describe a time when you had to take initiative and go beyond your job description.

Front of house managers are responsible for ensuring their team is performing well and that customers have a positive experience. Employers ask this question to see if you’re willing to take on additional responsibilities when necessary. In your answer, explain how you helped solve the situation and what steps you took to ensure it didn’t happen again.

Example: “I have always been a proactive and motivated employee, so I often take initiative to go beyond my job description. For example, when I was working as a Front of House Manager at a restaurant, I noticed that the customer service could be improved. To address this issue, I took it upon myself to create an in-depth training program for our staff on how to provide exceptional customer service. This included teaching them about proper etiquette, communication techniques, and conflict resolution strategies.

The results were immediate; customers began leaving positive reviews online and we saw an increase in repeat business. My efforts didn’t go unnoticed either; my supervisor praised me for taking the initiative and going above and beyond what was expected of me. Taking initiative is something I strive to do in all aspects of my work, and I believe it is one of my greatest strengths.”

20. What is the most challenging aspect of managing a front of house team?

This question can help interviewers understand how you handle challenges and what your priorities are. Your answer should show that you know how to overcome challenges and use them as opportunities for growth.

Example: “The most challenging aspect of managing a front of house team is ensuring that all guests have an enjoyable experience. This requires me to be constantly aware of the customer’s needs and expectations, as well as being able to anticipate any potential issues before they arise. I need to ensure that my team is properly trained and motivated so that they can provide excellent service to our customers. It also involves making sure that everyone is following proper safety protocols and adhering to company policies. Finally, it is important for me to stay up-to-date on industry trends and best practices in order to keep our team competitive and successful.”

21. How would you handle a customer complaint or negative feedback in an appropriate manner?

Front of house managers are responsible for ensuring that customers have a positive experience at their establishment. If you’re interviewing for this position, it’s likely that your employer wants to know how you would handle customer complaints or negative feedback in an appropriate manner. Use your answer to show the interviewer that you can respond professionally and effectively to these situations.

Example: “When it comes to customer complaints or negative feedback, I believe that the most important thing is to remain professional and courteous. The first step would be to listen carefully to what the customer has to say and try to understand their perspective. It’s also important to show empathy and apologize for any inconvenience they may have experienced.

Once I have a full understanding of the situation, I will then take appropriate action to address the issue. This could include offering a solution such as a refund or an apology. If necessary, I can also involve my supervisor or other members of management in order to ensure that the customer receives the best possible resolution. Finally, I will follow up with the customer to make sure that their concerns were addressed satisfactorily.”

22. If hired, what changes would you make within the first few months of being on the job?

This question is a great way to see how you plan for change and growth. When answering this question, it can be helpful to think about what you would do differently from the previous manager or what you would add to the current processes.

Example: “If hired as the Front of House Manager, I would make several changes within the first few months on the job. First and foremost, I would assess the current state of operations and develop a plan to improve customer service and satisfaction. This includes training staff in proper customer service techniques, developing systems for tracking customer feedback, and creating an efficient system for handling complaints.

I would also work with other departments to ensure that all processes are running smoothly. This includes ensuring that orders are being processed correctly, that inventory is managed effectively, and that any issues or discrepancies are addressed quickly and efficiently. Finally, I would review the existing policies and procedures and make adjustments where necessary to ensure that they are up-to-date and effective.”

23. Do you have any experience with implementing new policies and procedures?

Front of house managers often need to create new policies and procedures for their team members. This question helps employers understand how you might handle this responsibility in your role as a front of house manager. In your answer, explain what steps you would take when creating new policies or procedures. Explain that you would ensure the policies and procedures were clear and easy to follow.

Example: “Yes, I have extensive experience with implementing new policies and procedures. During my previous role as a Front of House Manager, I was responsible for introducing several new initiatives to improve the customer service experience. For example, I implemented a system that allowed customers to make reservations online, which increased efficiency and improved customer satisfaction. In addition, I created a policy that ensured all staff members were properly trained in customer service etiquette and provided regular feedback on their performance. Finally, I developed an effective communication strategy between front-of-house staff and kitchen staff to ensure orders were processed quickly and accurately. These initiatives have had a positive impact on our business, resulting in increased customer loyalty and higher profits.”

24. Are you comfortable working long hours if needed?

Front of house managers often work long hours, especially during peak dining times. Employers ask this question to make sure you’re willing to put in the extra effort if needed. In your answer, explain that you are committed to doing whatever it takes to ensure a positive experience for customers.

Example: “Absolutely. I understand that in the hospitality industry, long hours are often necessary to ensure a successful operation and happy customers. Throughout my career as a Front of House Manager, I have worked many extended shifts and late nights when needed. I am comfortable with this type of schedule and take pride in ensuring that guests receive the highest level of service no matter what time of day it is. I am also experienced in managing staff during these longer shifts, so they can stay motivated and productive while providing excellent customer service.”

25. How well do you understand different types of food service operations?

This question can help interviewers understand your experience level and how you might fit into their organization. Use examples from your previous work to explain what types of food service operations you’ve worked in, the differences between them and why they’re important.

Example: “I have extensive experience in understanding different types of food service operations. I have worked as a Front of House Manager for the past five years, and during that time I have gained an in-depth knowledge of all aspects of running a successful restaurant. From managing staff to overseeing customer service, I understand what it takes to ensure guests are satisfied with their dining experience.

In addition, I am well versed in the various types of food service operations such as fast casual, fine dining, and buffet style restaurants. I am familiar with the unique challenges each type of operation presents, and I have developed strategies to address them. For example, I have implemented systems to streamline processes in buffets to reduce wait times and improve efficiency.”