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Interview Questions

Top 37 Hotel Manager Interview Questions & Expert Answers

If you're preparing for a Hotel Manager interview, be ready for a mix of skill-based and role-specific questions. Read on to know the most common ones and how to answer them.

Table of Contents

In this list below, you'll find seven essential questions that every successful Hotel Manager candidate should be able to answer with confidence.

The Best Hotel Manager Interview Questions

1. Questions about experience, operations & industry knowledge

2. Interview questions about leadership & problem-solving

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Types of Hotel Manager Interview Questions

  • Questions about experience, operations & industry knowledge: As an experienced Hotel Manager you will be asked to present yourself in a series of questions that will test your knowledge and ability to consistently apply best industry practices while maintaining high standards of services.
  • Interview questions about leadership & problem-solving: Given this is a managerial role, you should be able to demonstrate your leadership skills. Think about specific situations where overcame challenges or a time when you made processes more efficient and cost-effective. As an employer, look for experienced candidates who are able to express themselves in a clear and confident manner.

What Are the Top Interview Questions for Hotel Manager Interview?

Instead of spending hours browsing through the internet, take a moment to check out these additional 30 questions that will help you increase your chances or finally landing that job you've been wanting!

30 More Questions for a Hotel Manager Interview

  • Tell me about a time when you improved a process or procedure at work.
  • What is your experience managing supply chains?
  • Which methods do you use to monitor your staff's performance?
  • When was the last time you had to handle staff shortages? What happened?
  • Which booking systems are you most proficient in?
  • When was the last time a guest complained to you and how did you solve it?
  • How do you handle guest reviews on social media?
  • What is your go-to approach for maintaining hotel property and rooms?
  • What is the most challenging part of being a Hotel Manager during peak season?
  • What's the best thing about your job?
  • Why did you decide to become a Hotel Manager?
  • What would you say is the most important factor when managing a hotel?
  • Can you give me an example of a time when you received excellent customer service?
  • How would you typically implement major changes in hotel operations?
  • What is your experience managing multiple departments simultaneously?
  • What was the biggest challenge you faced at work and how did you solve it?
  • Tell me about a time when you experienced a major setback in this role.
  • How do you handle conflicts between staff and customers?
  • Tell me about a time when you went above and beyond for a customer.
  • How do you think others would describe your leadership style?
  • Who has had the biggest impact on your career and why?
  • When was the last time you had to make a tough decision? What happened?
  • How do you deliver feedback to underperforming employees?
  • How do you promote collaboration and teamwork?
  • How would you handle a frustrated guest accused of stealing?
  • Tell me about a time when you turned a failure into a success.
  • How do you inspire your staff to perform well at all times?
  • What is your greatest strength?
  • What is your biggest weakness?
  • What was the last training you attended and what did you learn?

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Insider Interview Tips for Hotel Managers

As OysterLink is dedicated to helping job seekers and employers, we've prepared some additional tips both for the candidate and the interviewer. For those looking to grow in this field, make sure to also check out the most interesting Hotel Manager demographics and statistics.

Tips for Hotel Manager Applicants

Now that you've covered all the important questions and answers, let's discuss details such as interview outfits. The first impression can make or break the deal.

We know that we shouldn't judge a book by its cover, but in reality, people make quick judgments based on the first impression. A customer-facing role such as a Hotel Manager needs to dress to impress.

We are confident that as an experienced hotel professional, you won't be wearing sports attire for your interview and that you will refrain from wearing overly revealing clothes.

One of the key skills of a Hotel Manager is attention to detail. So, make sure you avoid some essential mistakes when preparing for your interview. For example, bear in mind that wrinkled clothes might be a big turn-off for the hiring manager. It's better to prepare your outfit in advance and ensure it looks as impeccable as your next uniform.

PRO TIP: Ensure that your nails are neat, and for the ladies, we suggest modest styling. We are aware that nail fashion is taking off and that ultra-long, extremely colorful nails are in, but we suggest you try something less attention-grabbing.

At the end of the day, you want the hiring manager to focus on your words, not your nails.

During the interview, maintain positive body language at all times. Make sure that communication with the hiring manager is on a two-way street. What does it mean?

Prepare some questions for the hiring manager, so that when asked what you would like to know, you don't just stumble and freeze up. Good questions you could ask are:

  1. What would the first month of working in your establishment be like for me?
  2. What are some KPIs I should be focused on?
  3. What is the current leadership style toward your employees?

Depending on the interview process, the hiring manager might ask you about your salary expectations. This is a very important question, and you should know what to say. In case you have some doubts, check the Hotel Manager average salary across the United States here.

Tips for Hotel Manager Interviewers

When hiring for a Hotel Manager role, you need to assess their leadership skills, hospitality knowledge, communication style and overall demeanor. It goes without saying that you should refrain from asking the candidate personal questions during the interview.

While we all know the obviously inappropriate ones, try to avoid questions such as:

  • (x) How much do you currently make?
  • (x) How often do you go on vacation?
  • (x) Do you plan on starting a family soon?

This might cause the candidates to experience discomfort and reject your later job offer.

While having the right degree and a number of years in the field is a crucial factor for hiring a Hotel Manager, you should also assess their passion for the hospitality industry, because you can't train people on is passion. So, if you see the spark in your candidate's eye, we recommend doing so.

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Written by Jericka Orellano

Content Specialist

Jericka is a published author who has had a decade of experience in publishing, editorial work, localization and media. Having spent eight years as a professional trainer and supervisor for other writers and editors, she excels in research, copyediting, proofreading and quality assurance. She now works with OysterLink as a content specialist.

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Edited by Marcy Miniano

Editor

Marcy is an editor and writer with a background in public relations and brand marketing. Throughout her nearly decade-long career, she has honed her skills in crafting content and helping build brands across various industries — including restaurant and hospitality, travel, tech, fashion and entertainment.