20 Shake Shack Interview Questions and Answers

When it comes to interviews, Shake Shack is known for their all-natural burgers. But what about their company-specific interview questions?

Whether you’re a first-time job seeker or an experienced professional, nailing the interview is key to getting the job you want. And when it comes to Shake Shack, knowing the right answers to their company-specific interview questions can make all the difference.

In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most common questions Shake Shack asks in their interviews, and give you some tips on how to answer them. With these insights in hand, you’ll be one step closer to landing the job you want at Shake Shack.

Shake Shack Interview Process

The interview process at Shake Shack is generally pretty quick and easy. Most applicants will be interviewed by a manager, who will ask them basic questions about their experience and availability. Some applicants may also be asked to do a work sample or assessment. Overall, the interview process is fairly straightforward and should not take more than a few weeks.

1. What do you know about Shake Shack?

This question is a great way to see if the candidate has done their research on the company. Shake Shack is known for its high-quality burgers, fries and shakes, so it’s important that you know what makes this restaurant unique.

Example: “I have been to Shake Shack once before, but I remember how delicious the food was. The burger had a nice char on it, which made it taste even better. I also really enjoyed the crinkle cut fries because they were seasoned perfectly. I think that your commitment to quality ingredients sets you apart from other fast food restaurants.”

2. Do you have experience working in a fast-paced environment?

Shake Shack is a popular restaurant that often has long lines. The interviewer wants to know if you have experience working in a fast-paced environment and how well you can handle it.

Example: “I worked at a coffee shop for two years, so I am used to the hustle and bustle of a busy workday. At my last job, we had a lot of customers during peak hours, but I was able to keep up with the pace. I also learned some tips and tricks to help me serve more customers faster.”

3. How would you handle an upset customer?

Shake Shack is known for its high-quality food and customer service. The interviewer may ask this question to assess your conflict resolution skills, communication abilities and problem-solving skills. In your answer, demonstrate that you can empathize with customers and use your problem-solving skills to find a solution to their issue.

Example: “I would first apologize to the customer and try to understand what they are upset about. Then I would take ownership of the situation and offer them a free meal or shake as an apology. If it was something more serious, like a long wait time, I would make sure to follow up with the customer after their visit to ensure everything was satisfactory.”

4. Would you consider yourself detail oriented?

Detail orientation is an important skill for any Shake Shack employee. The company requires all employees to follow its detailed procedures and guidelines, which are outlined in a handbook that’s available online. Your answer should show the interviewer you can be detail oriented by explaining how you have been in the past.

Example: “I am definitely detail oriented. I always make sure to follow my manager’s instructions exactly as they were given. In my last job, I was responsible for making sure our restaurant met health code standards every day. This required me to check each station of the kitchen for cleanliness and proper food storage temperatures. It also meant checking the dining room for spills or other issues. I found this task very rewarding because it made me feel like I was contributing to the overall success of the business.”

5. If hired, how much time can you commit to the position?

Employers ask this question to make sure you are serious about the position and that you can commit enough time to it. Shake Shack is a fast-paced environment, so they want employees who can work quickly and efficiently. In your answer, let them know how many hours per week you would be able to work. If you have availability for more than one shift, mention which ones.

Example: “I am available to work full-time during the week from 10am until 2pm and 5pm until closing. I also have availability on weekends from 11am until 3pm.”

6. Why should we hire you over another candidate for this position?

This question is a great way for employers to learn more about your qualifications and how you can benefit their company. When answering this question, it’s important to highlight the skills that make you an ideal candidate for the position. You should also be prepared to answer questions regarding any gaps in employment or other information they may ask about during the interview process.

Example: “I believe I am the best candidate for this position because of my previous experience working as a server at a local restaurant. In this role, I learned valuable customer service skills and developed my ability to work well with others. I have excellent communication skills and enjoy interacting with customers. I would love to use these skills to help Shake Shack grow its business.”

7. Describe your work ethic.

Shake Shack is a fast-paced environment where employees are expected to work quickly and efficiently. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the right attitude for their company. In your answer, explain that you’re willing to do whatever it takes to get the job done. Explain that you’re a hard worker who’s always looking for ways to improve.

Example: “I’m someone who likes to stay busy. I thrive in environments where there’s always something new to learn. At my last job, I was often the first person in the office and the last one to leave. I like to take on as many tasks as possible so that everyone else can focus on what they do best. I also believe that if we all work together, we can accomplish anything.”

8. Tell me about your previous food service experience.

Interviewers may ask this question to learn more about your previous experience and how it relates to the position you’re applying for. If you have no prior food service experience, consider talking about a time when you worked in another customer-facing role.

Example: “I’ve been working as a server at a local restaurant for the past two years. I enjoy interacting with customers and making sure they have an enjoyable dining experience. In my current position, I also learned how to manage inventory and work within tight deadlines.”

9. Have you ever had to deal with a difficult coworker? How did you solve it?

Shake Shack wants to know that you can work well with others and resolve conflicts. This is a great opportunity for you to show your communication skills, problem-solving abilities and conflict resolution skills.

Example: “I once had a coworker who was very critical of my work. I tried to be patient with her but she continued to criticize me in front of other coworkers. Eventually, I spoke to her privately about the issue. She apologized and promised not to do it again. After that, we were able to get along much better.”

10. Can you tell me about a time when you worked as part of a team and there was conflict, how did you handle it?

Shake Shack is a team-oriented company, so it’s important to show that you can work well with others. When answering this question, try to highlight your communication skills and ability to compromise.

Example: “I once worked at a restaurant where the kitchen staff was constantly arguing about who should be responsible for washing dishes. I suggested we rotate dish duty each week so everyone would get a chance to do it. This helped alleviate some of the tension between the cooks and dishwashers.”

11. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

This question is a great way to learn more about your potential new employer. Shake Shack wants employees who are committed to the company and its values, so it’s important that you answer this question honestly. If you have plans to move on from Shake Shack in five years, be sure to explain why you would make an excellent employee for the next few years.

Example: “I see myself working at Shake Shack for many years to come. I love the culture of the company and how much everyone cares about each other. I plan to continue learning as much as possible while contributing to the success of the company. In five years, I hope to be managing my own team of employees. I want to help others reach their goals and find fulfillment in their work.”

12. Are you comfortable serving customers alcohol?

Shake Shack is a restaurant that serves alcohol, so the interviewer wants to make sure you are comfortable serving customers who have been drinking. They want to know if you have experience with this and how you handled it in the past.

Example: “I worked at a bar for two years where I served many people alcohol. I am very comfortable talking to customers about what we offer and making recommendations based on their preferences. I also understand that some customers may be more intoxicated than others, so I always remain calm and collected when they come up to the bar.”

13. What is your availability like?

Shake Shack is a fast-paced environment that requires employees to work quickly and efficiently. The interviewer may ask this question to make sure you are available for the hours they need you to be. In your answer, let them know what days of the week you can work and how many hours per day you’re able to work.

Example: “I am available Monday through Friday from 10am until 2pm. I also have some availability on weekends if needed. I’m happy to work any shift as long as it’s during these hours.”

14. Are you currently employed? If so, why are you looking for a new job?

Employers ask this question to make sure you are actively looking for a new job and not just trying to leave your current one. They want to know that you have the drive to find a better opportunity, so be honest about why you are looking for a new job.

Example: “I am currently employed at a local burger joint as a cook. I love cooking burgers, but I feel like there is more out there for me in terms of career growth. I would love to work at Shake Shack because I think it would be an amazing experience to learn from such a successful company.”

15. Have you handled cash before? What training did you receive?

The interviewer may ask this question to see if you have experience handling cash and how much training you received. If you do not have any experience, explain what you would do in that situation.

Example: “I have worked with cash before at my current job where I am a server. We are required to count our tips at the end of each shift and deposit them into the bank. I also had to make change for customers when they ordered food or drinks.”

16. How would you prioritize tasks if you were given multiple assignments at once?

Shake Shack managers are often responsible for multiple tasks at once. The hiring manager may ask this question to see if you can manage your time effectively and prioritize important tasks over less urgent ones. In your answer, explain how you would determine which tasks were most important and what steps you would take to complete them in a timely manner.

Example: “I would first look at the deadlines of each task and decide which one needed to be completed first. Then I would break down each task into smaller steps so that I could work on it throughout the day. This helps me stay organized and ensures that I am able to get all my assignments done by their due dates.”

17. Do you speak any languages other than English?

Shake Shack is a global brand with locations in the United States, London and Dubai. The company wants to hire employees who can communicate effectively with customers from different countries. If you speak another language, let your interviewer know that you are willing to use it when interacting with international customers.

Example: “I am fluent in Spanish. I grew up speaking Spanish at home because my parents immigrated to the United States from Mexico. I also worked as a server at a Mexican restaurant for two years, so I have plenty of experience communicating with Spanish-speaking customers.”

18. What type of management style do you prefer?

Shake Shack is a fast-paced environment where employees must be able to work independently and as part of a team. The interviewer may ask this question to learn more about your management style, how you interact with others and if you would fit in at Shake Shack. To answer this question, think about the different types of management styles that exist and which one you prefer.

Example: “I have worked for both democratic and autocratic managers, and I find that I am most productive when my manager gives me autonomy but checks in on me regularly. This allows me to make decisions quickly while also ensuring that I am meeting company standards.”

19. When was the last time you received feedback on your performance?

This question can help the interviewer get a better understanding of your work ethic and how you respond to constructive criticism. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention any feedback you received in the past year and what steps you took to improve or change your performance based on that feedback.

Example: “I have had two formal reviews at my current job where I was given positive feedback on my performance. However, I also receive informal feedback from customers who often tell me they enjoy my service and appreciate my friendliness.”

20. Tell us about a time where you went above and beyond for a customer.

Shake Shack is a customer-focused company, so it’s important to show that you can provide excellent service. When answering this question, think of a time when you went above and beyond for a customer or client.

Example: “At my previous job, I had a regular customer who came in every day at the same time. One day, he was running late and called me to let me know. I told him not to worry about it and that we would hold his order until he got there. He ended up coming in later than usual, but I didn’t mind because I knew how much he enjoyed our food.”