5 Best Ways to Handle Hilarious but Challenging Job Interviews in the Restaurant Industry

Hiring for restaurants is no walk in the park. Between the no-shows, wild interview stories, and candidates who make you question everything, it can be overwhelming. But it doesn’t have to be! Let’s dive into some of the best ways to navigate these challenges and come out with a solid team.

1. Trust Your Gut (But Not Too Much)

Ever had that gut feeling about a candidate? You know, the one where you can’t quite put your finger on it, but something’s off? Trust that instinct! But at the same time, don’t let it rule out someone who could surprise you. Sometimes the best hires come from those who didn’t seem like a great fit at first but turn out to be rockstars. So, trust your gut... with a side of open-mindedness.

Example: One manager recalled hiring a high school grad with zero experience. Turns out, they became one of the best employees they ever had!

2. Prepare for the Unexpected

Buckle up, because you’re going to hear some wild stuff. From interviewees who think wearing pajamas is a good look to those who think a Hawaiian shirt and a beer gut combo is professional attire, be ready for anything. But remember, the interview isn’t just about how they dress—it’s also about how they communicate, solve problems, and handle stress.

Pro Tip: Try not to judge too quickly. They might not seem like the perfect fit right away, but take some time to get to know them—you might discover they have what it takes. (And if not, you’ll still have an interesting story to share later!)

3. Test for Flexibility and Adaptability

In the restaurant world, adaptability is key. You need staff who can roll with the punches when the kitchen gets slammed or the front of house is swamped. During the interview, ask how they’d handle unexpected situations—like being short-staffed or dealing with a difficult customer. Their answers will tell you a lot.

Fun Story: One applicant mentioned she’d just “leave customers alone” as her idea of good service. Probably not the kind of adaptability you’re looking for!

4. Don’t Be Afraid to Take a Risk

Sometimes, you’ve got to take a chance on a candidate who doesn’t check every box. Maybe they don’t have much experience, or maybe they’ve been out of the workforce for a while. Give them a shot! You might end up with a hidden gem who’s eager to learn and grow.

Real-Life Example: A manager once hired a stay-at-home mom who hadn’t worked in years. She ended up becoming a superstar employee, proving that taking a risk can pay off big.

5. Create a Fun but Respectful Environment

The restaurant business can be stressful, so it’s important to create a positive, respectful environment for your team. This starts in the interview. Set the tone by being approachable and friendly, but don’t let anyone walk all over you. If someone demands to speak to the “real” hiring manager or tries to bring their boyfriend to the interview, you know it’s time to walk away.

Pro Tip: You want someone who’s going to respect the team and the process, not someone who’s going to storm off because they didn’t get their way.

Hiring for restaurants is an adventure, filled with surprises and memorable moments. But by trusting your gut, staying open-minded, and testing for adaptability, you’ll find the right people who can handle the heat of the kitchen (or the chaos of the front of house). And hey, if nothing else, you’ll have some great stories to share at the next manager meeting!