Hospitality interview questions in Australia for cafe and restaurant roles is one of those topics that comes up when you apply for hospitality work. Hospitality interviews have specific questions about handling pressure, customer service, and working in fast paced environments. I’ve done hospitality interviews, and I’ve watched friends do them. Some went well. Others didn’t. The difference was knowing what to expect and how to answer hospitality specific questions.
Three years later, I’m finishing my Master’s at the University of Melbourne. I’ve worked in hospitality and done interviews, and I’ve learned what questions come up and how to answer them. Some questions are about handling pressure. Others are about customer service. The difference was understanding what hospitality employers want to know.
So here’s everything I know about hospitality interview questions in Australia, based on what employers actually ask.
How Do You Handle Pressure?
This is almost always asked, and here’s how to answer it.
Good answer: “I stay calm and focused under pressure. I prioritise tasks and work efficiently. In busy periods, I focus on what’s most important and work quickly but accurately. I’ve found that staying organised helps me handle pressure well.”
Bad answer: “I don’t handle pressure well” or “I get stressed.”
But here’s what I’ve learned: show you can handle it. Hospitality work is fast paced and can be stressful. Show you understand this and can work effectively under pressure.
Why Do You Want to Work in Hospitality?
This is common, and here’s how to answer it.
Good answer: “I enjoy working with people and thrive in fast paced environments. Hospitality work offers flexible hours that fit around my studies, and I value the opportunity to develop customer service skills. I also enjoy the social aspect of working in cafes and restaurants.”
Bad answer: “I need money” or “I can’t find other work.”
But here’s what I’ve learned: show genuine interest. Don’t just say you need money. Show why hospitality work appeals to you: working with people, fast paced environment, or flexible hours.
How Do You Handle Difficult Customers?
This is crucial, and here’s how to answer it.
Good answer: “I stay calm and professional. I listen to their concerns and try to understand what they need. I offer solutions and involve a supervisor if necessary. I’ve found that being patient and respectful usually resolves issues, and I always prioritise customer satisfaction.”
Bad answer: “I avoid them” or “I don’t know.”
But here’s what I’ve learned: show problem solving. Hospitality work involves dealing with difficult customers regularly. Show you can handle this professionally and find solutions.
Can You Work in a Fast Paced Environment?
This is important, and here’s how to answer it.
Good answer: “Yes, I thrive in fast paced environments. I work quickly but accurately, and I can multitask effectively. I understand hospitality work is fast paced, especially during busy periods, and I’m prepared for that.”
Bad answer: “I think so” or “Maybe.”
But here’s what I’ve learned: show confidence. Hospitality work is fast paced. Show you understand this and can work effectively in busy environments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need hospitality experience?
Not always. Many cafes and restaurants hire people without hospitality experience. They care more about attitude, reliability, and ability to learn.
How do I show I can handle pressure?
Give examples. Talk about times you’ve worked under pressure, whether in work, study, or other situations. Show how you stayed calm and got things done.
What if I’ve never worked in hospitality?
That’s okay. Focus on transferable skills: customer service, teamwork, working under pressure. Show how your experience demonstrates these skills.
How long do hospitality interviews last?
Usually 15 to 30 minutes. They’re often brief and focused on availability, attitude, and ability to handle pressure.
What should I wear?
Dress professionally but appropriately. Business casual is usually fine. Don’t be too casual, but don’t be overly formal either.
Should I mention tips?
Not unless they ask. Focus on the work and your suitability. Tips are usually discussed after you’re hired.
I’ve written about working in hospitality in Australia if you want more detail.
Final Thoughts
Hospitality interview questions in Australia focus on handling pressure, customer service, and working in fast paced environments. Prepare answers to common questions, show you can handle pressure, and demonstrate customer service skills. Don’t overthink it. Hospitality interviews are usually straightforward.
Don’t be too nervous. Hospitality employers want to see if you’re suitable. Show you can handle pressure, work with people, and work in fast paced environments. You’ll do fine.
I’ve made plenty of mistakes since landing in Melbourne, but each one taught me something. The biggest lesson? Show you can handle pressure. Hospitality work is fast paced and can be stressful. Show you understand this and can work effectively. Be confident, and show your customer service skills.
If you’re still preparing for hospitality interviews, prepare answers to common questions, show you can handle pressure, and demonstrate customer service skills. Hospitality interviews are usually straightforward. Prepare, but be yourself.
