Applebee’s is a famous American chain restaurant known for its casual atmosphere and wide range of tasty dishes and signature drinks. With over 1,830 outlets across the globe, Applebee’s has carved a niche for itself in the restaurant industry. This article will talk about some possible interview questions for people who want to work at Applebee’s, a brand that has been around since 1980 and has been known for making people happy.
The hiring process at Applebee’s is generally described as easy and straightforward. Applicants usually send in their information online and then have an interview with a hiring manager. The interview can happen in person or online. The interview questions are usually basic and focused on customer service and prior experience. Some applicants might get the job right away, while others might hear back in a few days. People say that the interview process is friendly, helpful, and informative, and that the goal is to find a good match between the applicant and the company.
Heading into an interview can be nerve-wracking You want to make the best possible impression and stand out from the crowd of applicants This is especially true for popular restaurant chains like Applebee’s, which receive a high volume of applicants for both front and back of house positions.
In this article, I’ll provide an overview of Applebee’s, their hiring process, and then dive into the top 15 most frequently asked Applebee’s interview questions. I’ve provided sample answers as a guide to help you craft your own impressive responses.
Whether you’re interviewing to be a server, cook, host, or manager, preparation is key. Let’s get started!
Overview of Applebee’s and Their Hiring Process
Applebee’s is a well-known American casual dining chain with over 1,900 locations worldwide. They are best known for their broad menu of American fare like burgers, ribs, pasta, and signature drinks.
The Applebee’s hiring process typically involves an online application, a phone or in-person interview, and orientation/training if hired. They look for friendly team players who can handle a fast-paced work environment. Relevant experience is valued but not required for most entry-level roles like hosts or servers.
Now let’s look at some of the most common Applebee’s interview questions asked across all positions so you can be prepared:
15 Common Applebee’s Interview Questions and Answers
1. Why do you want to work at Applebee’s?
This is a very common question to expect, as interviewers want to gauge your interest and motivations. Focus your answer on your enthusiasm for the brand, the working environment, and how the role aligns with your skills and experience.
Sample Answer: I’m excited to apply my customer service skills and passion for food in the lively, team-oriented environment that Applebee’s is known for. I love the energy and bustle of a busy restaurant, and Applebee’s commitment to creating a welcoming dining experience aligns with my values. This server role would allow me to combine my hospitality experience with my enthusiasm for delivering excellent service.
2. What do you know about our restaurant/brand?
With this question, interviewers want to see that you’ve done your research! Highlight your knowledge of their menu offerings, brand values, and anything else that shows your interest.
Sample Answer: Through my research, I learned that Applebee’s is dedicated to providing a welcoming neighborhood experience to every guest. You offer an extensive American menu from burgers to ribs, pastas, salads, and signature drinks like the Perfect Margarita. Family-friendly service and consistency across all locations also seem to be top priorities. I really admire your community outreach efforts as well.
3. Why do you feel you’re a good fit for this position?
This gives you a chance to connect your skills and experience directly to the role you’re applying for. Be specific!
Sample Answer: As a server, hospitality and communication skills are crucial – two areas I excel in and enjoy. I’m accustomed to providing excellent customer service while managing multiple tasks efficiently in past restaurant roles. Whether it’s resolving issues, making recommendations, or ensuring food arrives hot and timely, I have the experience to thrive in this role.
4. How does your past experience prepare you for this job?
Similar to the previous question, be sure to highlight transferable skills and directly relate your experience to the position. Quantify your achievements when possible.
Sample Answer: In my 3 years as a server at Casa Linda, I consistently received positive feedback for my attentive service even during busy rushes. For example, I was able to increase my average monthly sales by 20% over 2 years through effective menu recommendations. These skills in delivering consistent and friendly service will enable me to thrive in the fast-paced environment at Applebee’s.
5. How do you handle pressure or stressful situations?
Applebee’s gets busy so interviewers want to ensure you can stay cool under pressure! Share examples of how you multitasked, prioritized, or resolved conflicts calmly.
Sample Answer: I thrive under pressure and handle it by staying organized. When things get hectic, I take a quick moment to prioritize tasks based on importance to keep everything moving smoothly. For example, when we were understaffed, I stayed calm, delegated tasks, and coordinated with the kitchen to ensure customers still had an excellent experience. My ability to perform under pressure will allow me to excel on busy shifts.
6. How do you motivate or inspire team members?
For leadership roles, interviewers look for people-skills and your approach to teamwork. Share examples of recognizing achievements, setting goals, or fostering open communication.
Sample Answer: I motivate my team by recognizing achievements and understanding personal goals. When my coworker handled a difficult customer situation exceptionally, I praised them in front of the team and recommended them for employee of the month. I also have monthly check-ins to understand career aspirations and find ways to help them grow. This personal approach helps inspire my team to deliver their best.
7. How do you handle an unhappy or rude customer?
They want to ensure you can deal with challenges professionally and turn dissatisfied customers into happy ones. Highlight your patience, empathy, and conflict resolution ability.
Sample Answer: When facing an unhappy customer, I listen attentively first to understand the full situation. I apologize sincerely for any inconvenience caused and make it a priority to resolve their issue respectfully and promptly. For example, when a customer’s steak was undercooked, I immediately got the kitchen to remake it to their preference and offered a free dessert for the inconvenience. My calm and understanding approach helped turn their experience into a positive one.
8. Why do you want to be a server/cook/manager?
Show your passion for the specific role you’re applying for. Share why it appeals to you and how you’ll apply your best qualities in this position.
Sample Answer: I aspire to be a cook because I absolutely love experimenting and cooking international cuisines. The fast-paced environment and emphasis on quality will allow me to constantly expand my culinary skills. I also enjoy mentoring others, so I look forward to sharing my knowledge and techniques to help create dishes that WOW diners.
9. How do you stay motivated in a repetitive job?
In restaurant work, your tasks can become routine. Demonstrate your dedication, work ethic, and reliability. Share examples of how you stay focused in previous roles.
Sample Answer: While certain tasks can become routine, I stay engaged by focusing on providing high-quality customer service. I create mini-goals each shift, like beating my previous sales numbers or getting 5 compliments from customers. Setting these attainable goals and motivating my team keeps me focused in any repetitive role. My work ethic and competitiveness drive me to excel daily.
10. How do you build rapport with customers?
For any customer-facing role, highlight your friendliness, communication skills, and passion for hospitality. Share examples of how you connect with customers.
Sample Answer: I build rapport by engaging customers in friendly conversation and determining their preferences. Instead of just rattling off specials, I’ll ask about their favorite dishes or tailor suggestions based on whether they seem to want a quiet night or a celebratory experience. My ability to make personal connections makes customers feel valued while enabling me to provide better service.
11. How do you handle criticism from customers or coworkers?
Show that you are open to feedback by discussing how you listen actively, are never defensive, and use criticism to improve. Share examples where feedback led to positive outcomes.
Sample Answer: I welcome feedback as an opportunity for growth. When a customer felt their burger was overcooked, I apologized for the oversight, asked for suggestions to improve, and relayed it to our chef so we could enhance our cooking process. This Feedback allowed me to provide a better product. I handle coworker criticism similarly by expressing my appreciation for their perspective and working together to build on our strengths.
12. Why do you want to work in the restaurant industry?
Demonstrate your passion for the industry and how you’ll apply your unique skills or experiences. If you have no experience, discuss your enthusiasm to learn.
Sample Answer: I’m excited to bring my creativity and customer service skills to the restaurant industry. Whether it’s developing new recipes, planning events, or ensuring diners have a fantastic experience, this fast-paced environment allows me to learn and grow daily. Restaurant work synergizes my passion for food and people – I can’t wait to create memorable dining experiences.
13. How do you handle dissatisfied customers?
Discuss the steps you take to turn frustrated customers into happy ones. Highlight patience, empathy, and a commitment to service recovery. Share examples if possible.
Sample Answer: When handling dissatisfied customers, I first listen attentively to understand their concerns. I express empathy for the situation before apologizing sincerely and assuring them I will address the issue promptly. Depending on the situation, I may offer a replacement meal, discount, or complimentary item to make amends. My aim is always to turn a negative experience into a positive one through open communication and active problem
Most Often Asked Applebee’s Interview Questions and Answers
FAQ
Is it easy to get hired at Applebee’s?
How many interviews does Applebee’s do?
What questions do they ask at an Applebee’s server interview?
They will definitely ask about your previous work experience at your Applebee’s Server Interview. Talk about any experience you have working with customers, serving food and drinks, using a point of sale system, and finally setting and busing tables. Why should we hire you?
What does an Applebee’s restaurant manager do?
An Applebee’s Restaurant Manager reports to the General Manager and assists in leading the operations of the restaurant and a team of 40+ hourly associates. Here you will find frequently asked Applebee’s Restaurant Manager Interview Questions and Answers. Can you tell us about your previous work experience?
What’s it like working at Applebee’s?
Depending if your a closer you might not make as much as intended . Long closing hours. Morning shift is way calmer and better.the managers for the most part are cool. Was this review helpful? I enjoyed working at Applebee’s. I liked how well the managers were actually there for the employees and showed compassion and understanding.
What does an Applebee’s server do?
The job description states an Applebee’s server communicates with guests to serve food and drinks while maintaining an upbeat atmosphere. A server also relays orders to the bar and kitchen. Here you will find frequently asked Applebee’s Server Interview Questions and Answers. Tell us about your previous work experience?
