Interview questions to reveal a candidate’s hospitality quotient

Here are some examples of interview questions that can help determine if a candidate possesses the six attributes Danny Meyer looks for in employees:

Optimistic Warmth:

Can you tell me about a time when you went above and beyond to make a customer or coworker feel welcome and comfortable?

How do you maintain a positive attitude when faced with challenging situations in the workplace?

Intelligence:

Describe a time when you had to quickly learn a new skill or adapt to a new process. How did you approach it?

How do you stay updated and informed about industry trends and developments?

Work Ethic:

Can you provide an example of a time when you had to meet a tight deadline or handle a heavy workload? How did you prioritize and manage your tasks?

How do you motivate yourself to consistently deliver high-quality work?

Empathy:

Describe a situation where you had to handle a dissatisfied customer or resolve a conflict. How did you demonstrate empathy and understanding?

How do you ensure that you actively listen to customers’ needs and concerns?

Self-awareness and Integrity:

Tell me about a mistake you made in your previous job. How did you take responsibility for it and what did you learn from the experience?

How do you handle ethical dilemmas or situations where your personal values might conflict with the company’s policies?

Passion:

What initially sparked your interest in the hospitality industry?

How do you stay motivated and enthusiastic about your work, even during challenging or demanding times?

These questions are designed to elicit specific examples and insights from candidates, allowing you to assess their alignment with the attributes Danny Meyer values in his employees. Remember to listen attentively to their responses and observe their demeanor and enthusiasm, as these qualities can provide additional indications of their fit within your organization.