Going for an interview at TGI Fridays soon? Feeling a little anxious, wondering what questions they might throw your way? Well, take a deep breath and relax! This comprehensive guide’s got you covered on everything you need to know to totally nail that TGI Fridays interview.
As one of America’s most iconic restaurant chains, TGI Fridays receives hundreds of applications for their vibrant server, bartender and cook positions. With competition fiercer than their legendary loaded potato skins, being prepared with killer answers can make all the difference in landing your dream job.
That’s where this guide comes in. After extensive research and analysis of real TGI Fridays interview questions, we’ve compiled the top 25 questions you’re likely to face, along with detailed suggestions and sample responses for each one.
Think of this as your secret weapon, arming you with the confidence and insider tips you need to amaze that interviewer and score the job. Let’s dive right in and explore those key TGI Fridays interview questions and answers
Common TGI Fridays Interview Questions and Answers
1. Tell me about yourself.
This ubiquitous opening interview question is a chance for the interviewer to learn about your background and skills. Keep it succinct and relevant to the TGI Fridays job. Focus on highlights that showcase customer service abilities, problem-solving and your passion for the restaurant industry.
Sample Response “I’m an enthusiastic food service professional with 5 years experience as a server and shift leader at a high-volume restaurant. In my last role, I increased positive customer reviews by 15% through attentive service and quick thinking. Finding solutions for customers gave me a real sense of pride I love bringing passion and positivity to a hard-working team which makes me feel TGI Fridays would be a great mutual fit I thrive in lively environments and my priority is ensuring every guest has an amazing dining experience.”
2. Why do you want to work at TGI Fridays?
Here’s where you prove you’ve done your research on the company. Show your understanding of the TGI Fridays brand and how your skills and values align. Be specific – highlight a few qualities you possess that directly match their culture and requirements for the role.
Sample Response: “I’m very drawn to TGI Fridays’ lively, high-energy atmosphere and emphasis on wowing guests. Having worked in family restaurants for 3 years, I really value that welcoming, fun spirit. I also love how TGI Fridays allows team members to express their personalities. I’m super passionate about creating great experiences for guests through building connections and going that extra mile. My outgoing nature and proven customer service skills make me a great match for enhancing the TGI Fridays guest experience.”
3. What do you know about our restaurant?
Demonstrate you’ve researched their history, values, signature menu items and brand reputation. Highlight a few facts that resonate with you and show your enthusiasm.
Sample Response: “I know TGI Fridays first opened in 1965 in New York and was the first singles bar to feature co-ed mingling. That pioneering, spirited vibe remains part of the DNA today. You’re known for signature cocktails, loaded apps like potato skins and an Americana menu with global influences. But most importantly, TGI Fridays has a reputation for providing an unforgettable dining experience fueled by team energy, unique drinks and food and passion for creating fun moments.”
4. How would you handle an unhappy customer?
Prove you can stay calm and employ smart service recovery tactics. Show the steps you’d take to listen, empathize, find a solution and follow up. Give an example of turning around a bad experience.
Sample Response: “First, I’d listen closely to understand the exact issue. I’d then apologize sincerely and assure them I’ll make it right. If a meal was unsatisfactory, I’d offer a replacement or substitution. I’d inform a manager if required but own solving it myself. I once had a guest upset over receiving the wrong dish. I apologized, asked what they’d prefer instead and rushed to get it out hot and fast. They were so appreciative of the quick fix that they left me a 25% tip.”
5. How would you make a great impression on guests?
Share your techniques for wowing guests. Give examples of how you connect through attentive service, customizing the experience and demonstrating extensive menu knowledge.
Sample Response: “I always introduce myself by name and make plenty of friendly eye contact. If guests seem interested, I’ll offer thoughtful suggestions based on their tastes. Like suggesting the perfect drink pairing for an appetizer or entree. I get a sense of pride from surprising and delighting guests with my menu knowledge. And I love adding personal touches, like bringing a kid’s meal out fast because I’ve noticed them getting restless. It’s all about those memorable moments of service.”
6. A large party arrives without a reservation. What do you do?
Show you can think on your feet. Discuss coordinating with the hostess, manager and kitchen staff to accommodate the guests. Emphasize providing an amazing experience despite the challenge.
Sample Response: “I’d immediately notify the manager on duty and hostess. We’d swiftly decide on a seating option given current occupancy and table configuration. I’d help set tables together, pitching in so they’re seated fast. I’d apologize for any wait and acknowledge their frustration. But also share we’ll do everything to make this a great experience. I’d get drink orders ASAP and assure them the kitchen is notified to fire orders out fast. It’s about working as a team to deliver great service despite the surprise challenge.”
7. Why should we hire you over other applicants?
Sell yourself! Outline 2-3 strong traits that make you stand out, like customer focus, work ethic, team spirit, problem-solving abilities. Back with examples of how you’ve demonstrated these strengths.
Sample Response: “I have an unrivaled passion for crafting amazing guest experiences. For example, my last manager noticed I spent extra time interacting with a lonely elderly couple. Afterward, he said I really embodied the spirit of thoughtful hospitality. I also love rising to challenges as a team, thinking creatively to provide the best outcome for guests. Like the time 10 of us stayed late to transform the patio into an adorable wedding ceremony space on short notice. My positive attitude and natural service skills enable me to create memorable moments.”
8. What is your greatest strength?
Choose a strength like customer focus, positivity or adaptability. Provide a specific example illustrating when this strength made a difference in your job performance and the impact it had.
Sample Response: “My greatest strength is my ability to adapt smoothly to any situation. For example, during my last job, we were 10 staff down on the busiest graduation weekend. I volunteered to take on extra tables and altered my routine to provide the best possible experience despite being so short-staffed. Guests commented on how I maintained outstanding service levels despite the chaos. Adapting kept me calm and allowed me to enhance the experience for my guests, not just survive the rush.”
9. What is your greatest weakness?
Be honest but choose a minor weakness not core to the job. Show your self awareness and the proactive steps you’re taking to improve.
Sample Response: “My biggest weakness is probably that I sometimes take constructive criticism too personally. I’m quite a sensitive soul, so negative feedback can sting a bit, even when it’s meant to help me improve. However, I’ve been working on adopting a growth mindset. Now when I receive tough feedback, I make sure to ask clarifying questions, reflect on how I can get better and even thank the person for helping make me stronger.”
10. Why do you want to be a server/bartender?
Share your motivation for this role. Express your passion for hospitality, delighting guests, and bringing fun energy to a team.
Sample Response: “I’m naturally outgoing, hyper-organized and love helping people have a great time. Working collaboratively with a team to create memorable dining experiences for guests is so rewarding. I get excited imagining crafting the perfect night out for newlyweds, girlfriends catching up or families celebrating. The fast pace also energizes me. I just love delivering amazing hospitality experiences through this kind of fast-paced, social and fun role.”
11. How do you handle stress or pressure?
Reassure them you work well under pressure. Share tactics like staying focused, asking for help and using stress as fuel to up your game. Provide an example of thriving during a high-stress restaurant moment.
Sample Response: *”I operate well in high-pressure situations. When it gets extremely busy, I take a breath, make a quick priority list and tackle the most crucial tasks first. If I feel overwhelmed, I’ll proactively ask a co-worker for help restocking drinks or running food. Viewing pressure as a challenge rather than a threat helps me get in the zone and deliver faster, friendlier service. A good example was during a huge 50-top birthday party. I stayed energized and didn’t mix up a single order because I leveraged that pressure to up
Top 5 TGI Fridays Interview Questions and Answers
FAQ
Why do I want to work at TGI Fridays?
What is the interview process like at TGI Fridays?
I interviewed at TGI Fridays (Manchester, England) First you must complete an application and if successful you move on to a group interview day. The group interview consists of group tasks and quick fire interviews with different staff Where do you see yourself in 5 years? I applied online. The process took 2 days.
What do you see yourself doing at TGI Fridays?
If you see yourself staying at TGI Friday’s state you would like to see yourself in a management position. TGI Fridays have kitchen management, restaurant management, and general manager positions. If you are going to college state what you see yourself doing when you finish. 4. What does TGIF mean? Thank God it’s Friday. 5. Why should I hire you?
What skills do you need to be a TGI Friday?
Below is a sample T.G.I. Friday’s job description which I will show the skills they are looking for: Greets Guests builds rapport and ensures an enjoyable, quality dining experience (skill required: communication skills) Build rapport. Ask questions to identify the experience the guests want (skill required: listening skills).
What’s new at TGI Friday’s?
Last Monday TGI Friday’s unveiled a new promotion (available at many TGI Friday’s locations, but none on the island of Manhattan) whereby customers can gorge themselves on unlimited appetizers—without fear of punishment, embarrassment, or ostracization—for a one-time payment of $10. The promotion is called “Endless Appetizers.”
