20 Tim Hortons Interview Questions and Answers

When you go for a Tim Hortons interview, you can expect to be asked questions about your customer service skills and experience, as well as questions specific to the Tim Hortons brand.

To help you prepare, we’ve compiled a list of sample Tim Hortons interview questions and answers. Read on to learn more about what to expect during your interview and how to craft your own responses.

Tim Hortons Interview Process

The interview process at Tim Hortons can vary depending on the position you are applying for. For entry-level positions, such as Team Member or Supervisor, the process is typically fairly straightforward and may only consist of one or two interviews. For more senior positions, such as Shift Supervisor or Baker, the process may be more extensive and include multiple rounds of interviews. Overall, the interview process is generally not too difficult, although some applicants may find it challenging to answer questions about their experience working with food or customer service.

1. Why do you want to work at Tim Hortons?

This question is a great way for the interviewer to learn more about your passion for working at Tim Hortons. They want to know that you are excited to work in their restaurant and that you have done some research on the company. When answering this question, make sure to highlight what attracted you to the job opening.

Example: “I applied for this position because I am passionate about providing excellent customer service. I love interacting with people and making them feel welcome. I also really enjoy baking, so I think it would be fun to work here. I noticed that Tim Hortons has an amazing reputation for its food quality, which makes me even more excited to join the team.”

2. How would you handle an agitated customer?

As a server, you may encounter customers who are upset about something. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the skills and confidence to diffuse an uncomfortable situation. In your answer, explain how you would use your communication skills to help calm the customer down. Share one or two strategies that you’ve used in the past to help people feel more comfortable.

Example: “I once had a customer who was upset because they didn’t get their order right. I went over to them and apologized for the mistake. Then, I offered to remake their entire order at no charge. This helped diffuse the situation, and the customer ended up being happy with their new meal. I also think it’s important to listen to what customers have to say. If they’re upset, I try to give them my full attention so they know I care.”

3. What are your availability and days that you can’t work?

Employers ask this question to make sure you’re available for the majority of their hiring needs. They also want to know that you can work a full schedule and be on time consistently. When answering, list your availability and explain why it works well with the job’s requirements. If you have any days off or limitations, mention them as well.

Example: “I’m available Monday through Friday from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. I don’t have any days off, but I do take one hour for lunch each day. My schedule is flexible enough that I could start at 5 a.m. if needed.”

4. How would you describe your customer service style?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you would interact with customers at Tim Hortons. Describe your customer service style in relation to the company’s mission statement and values, and give examples of how you’ve applied this style in previous roles.

Example: “I believe that every customer is important, so I always make sure to greet them with a smile and offer assistance when they need it. When taking orders, I try to be as detailed as possible to ensure accuracy. For example, if a customer wants their coffee black, I’ll ask if they want cream or sugar instead of assuming they want nothing. This helps me avoid mistakes and ensures my customers get exactly what they want.”

5. Are you comfortable with taking orders over the phone?

This question is a great way to determine if you’re comfortable with the fast-paced environment of working at Tim Hortons. The interviewer wants to know that you can handle taking orders over the phone and interacting with customers in a quick manner. Use your answer to highlight your ability to multitask, communicate clearly and work quickly under pressure.

Example: “I have worked as a barista for several years now, so I am very familiar with taking orders over the phone. In fact, I find it easier than having customers come into the store because I can focus on their order without being distracted by other customers or employees. I also enjoy talking to customers and making them feel welcome when they call.”

6. If a customer was unhappy with their purchase, how would you handle the situation?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you handle customer complaints and whether you have experience with conflict resolution. When answering, it can be helpful to mention a specific situation in which you helped resolve a problem for a customer.

Example: “If a customer was unhappy with their purchase, I would first apologize for the inconvenience and ask what they were unsatisfied about. If there was something that could be fixed or replaced, I would do so immediately. If not, I would offer them a coupon for another item on the menu.”

7. Can you tell me about a time when you had to solve a problem on short notice?

Employers ask this question to see how you react under pressure. They want to know that you can handle a challenge and still perform your job well. When answering, think of a time when you had to solve a problem quickly but also did so effectively.

Example: “At my previous job, I was working the drive-thru window when one customer’s order got mixed up with another customer’s. The two customers were both waiting in line for their orders, so I immediately apologized and told them we would get their orders out as soon as possible. I then asked the other employee who took the wrong order what they ordered so I could put it together for the correct customer. We ended up getting both orders out within five minutes.”

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

Working at a coffee shop like Tim Hortons can be hectic during peak hours. Employers ask this question to make sure you’re comfortable working in an environment where you have to multitask and prioritize tasks quickly. In your answer, explain how you handle stress and stay organized when faced with multiple tasks.

Example: “I’ve worked as a barista for the past three years, so I’m used to working in a fast-paced environment. During my first year of experience, I was still getting used to the pace of things, but now I know what to expect. I am very good at prioritizing tasks and staying calm under pressure. When it gets busy, I try to focus on one task at a time and not get overwhelmed by all that’s going on around me.”

9. Describe a time where you went above and beyond for a customer.

This question is a great way to show your dedication and passion for customer service. When answering this question, it can be helpful to think of a time when you went above and beyond for a customer and the outcome was positive.

Example: “When I worked at my previous job, we had a regular customer who would come in every day after work. He always ordered the same thing, but one day he came in and said that his usual order wasn’t as good as usual. I offered him a new drink on me, which he gladly accepted. After taking a sip of his new drink, he told me it tasted just like his normal drink and thanked me for going out of my way to make sure he was happy.”

10. Which shift are you available to work?

Employers ask this question to make sure you are available for the hours they need. They also want to know if you have any scheduling preferences or conflicts. Before your interview, review the job description and determine which shifts are open. Choose one that fits with your availability and schedule preferences.

Example: “I am available to work all of the available shifts. I prefer working in the morning because it’s a quieter time at the restaurant. However, I can also work later in the day when there is more business. I’m flexible and would be happy to fill in on other shifts as needed.”

11. Provide an example of a time when you worked as part of a team.

Working as part of a team is an important skill to have when working at Tim Hortons. Teamwork allows you to complete tasks more efficiently and effectively, which can help you meet your goals. When answering this question, it can be helpful to highlight how you worked together with others to achieve something or solve a problem.

Example: “When I was in high school, I volunteered at the local animal shelter. We had a lot of animals that needed homes, so we decided to hold a fundraiser where people could adopt pets for free if they bought food from us. It was a great idea, but we didn’t know how many people would show up. To prepare, we divided into teams and each group took on a different task. One group made sure there were enough tables and chairs, another prepared the food and drinks and another cleaned up after the event.”

12. Have you ever managed a team before?

This question can help the interviewer determine your leadership skills and how you might fit into their team. If you have previous management experience, share what responsibilities you had in that role and how they relate to managing a team at Tim Hortons. If you don’t have prior management experience, you can still answer this question by describing any other leadership roles you’ve held or ways you’ve helped others succeed.

Example: “I’ve never managed a team before, but I did serve as president of my sorority during college. In that role, I organized weekly meetings with our executive board members, planned social events for our chapter and worked with our advisors to ensure we were following university guidelines. This experience taught me how to delegate tasks to others and work with different personalities.”

13. What is your favorite product from Tim Hortons?

This question is a great way to see if you are familiar with the company’s products. It also shows that you have tried their food and drinks, which can be important for an employee who will be serving customers. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific product and why you like it.

Example: “My favorite Tim Hortons product would have to be the Iced Cappuccino. I love coffee, but sometimes find it too strong. The iced cappuccino has just enough coffee flavor without being overwhelming. Plus, it’s refreshing on hot days.”

14. What hours do you prefer to work?

Employers ask this question to make sure you’re flexible with your work schedule. They want employees who can adapt to the needs of their business and are willing to work different hours if needed. When answering this question, be honest about what hours you prefer but also emphasize that you’re flexible and will do whatever is best for the company.

Example: “I’m a night owl so I really enjoy working late into the evening. However, I know that some businesses have more customers during the day, so I would be happy to start my shift earlier if it meant getting more customers in the door.”

15. Tell us about yourself.

This is a common question that employers ask to get to know you better. They want to learn about your personality, work ethic and goals. When answering this question, be sure to highlight any skills or experiences that relate to the job description.

Example: “I grew up in a small town where I was one of two people who worked at Tim Hortons. My parents were both very busy with their jobs, so they would drop me off there every morning before going to work. I learned how to make coffee and other drinks by watching my coworkers. Eventually, I started making specialty coffees for customers. I also helped out around the restaurant when needed. This experience taught me responsibility and gave me confidence.”

16. How well do you work under pressure?

Working in the food service industry can often involve high-pressure situations. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience working under pressure and how well you perform in these situations. In your answer, share a time when you worked under pressure and what you did to manage it. Explain that you are able to stay calm and focused on completing tasks during stressful times.

Example: “I am someone who thrives under pressure. When I know there is a lot of work to be done, I use that as motivation to get everything finished quickly and efficiently. At my last job, we were always busy, so I got used to working under pressure. I would arrive early every day to ensure I had enough time to complete all of my tasks before the rush started.”

17. Have you worked in retail or food service before?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your experience and how it relates to the position. If you have retail or food service experience, share what skills you gained from that job that will help you succeed in this role.

Example: “I worked as a cashier at a local grocery store for two years while I was in college. While working there, I learned valuable customer service skills and developed my ability to multitask. I also became familiar with operating point-of-sale systems and handling money. These skills helped me get my first job after graduation.”

18. What do you think makes a good leader?

Employers ask this question to see if you have the leadership skills they’re looking for in a manager. They want someone who can inspire their team, communicate effectively and make decisions that benefit the company. When answering this question, think about what makes a good leader in your opinion. Explain how you possess these qualities or how you would implement them into your management style.

Example: “I think a good leader is someone who inspires others to do their best work. I believe it’s important to be an approachable person so employees feel comfortable coming to you with questions or concerns. A good leader also has strong communication skills. It’s important to listen to everyone’s ideas and opinions when making decisions. Finally, I think a good leader should be decisive. While it’s important to consider all options before making a decision, once you’ve made one, you need to commit to it.”

19. What would you say is your greatest strength and weakness?

Employers ask this question to learn more about your personality and how you view yourself. They want to know that you are self-aware, so it’s important to answer honestly. When answering this question, try to focus on a strength rather than a weakness.

Example: “My greatest strength is my ability to work well with others. I am always willing to help anyone who needs it, even if it means going above and beyond what is expected of me. My only weakness would be that I sometimes get overwhelmed by large projects. To overcome this, I make sure to break down the project into smaller tasks and set deadlines for myself.”

20. What would you do if you noticed that a fellow team member was not following company policy?

This question can help the interviewer determine how you would handle a situation that could affect your team’s productivity. In your answer, explain what steps you would take to address the issue and ensure it doesn’t happen again.

Example: “If I noticed a fellow team member was not following company policy, I would first speak with them privately about the matter. If they were aware of their mistake but continued to do so, I would document the incident in case it happened again. If they didn’t realize their mistake or continued to break policy after being spoken to, I would inform my manager so they could address the issue.”