Top 40 Housekeeper Interview Questions With Expert Answers

Example answer: “I’ve worked for five years in a variety of housekeeping positions in hotels and residential homes. I’ve developed a knack for noticing the smallest details in my daily tasks — which include laundering, cleaning, sanitizing and supply management. I approach each job with a focus on efficiency and safety, leaving any room spotless.”

For employers: Although vague, this question gives you a clearer and better understanding of the candidate’s practical experience in housekeeping. If they don’t have previous experience, you can also get a feel for their understanding of a Housekeeper’s responsibilities and expectations for the job.

For applicants: The interviewer wants to know about your real-life experience in housekeeping roles. Think about it like how you would answer the question, “Can you tell me something about yourself?”

Describe the different kinds of clients you’ve served — whether you’ve worked in hotels, private residences, etc. You can also describe the tasks you’ve handled and how you make sure everything’s in order and done on time.

Example answer: “I am familiar with the use of cleaning chemicals, including their specific applications and safety measures. For example, all-purpose cleaners can be used on countertops, floors and appliances.

Disinfectants, on the other hand, should be used to clean high-touch areas like doorknobs and bathroom fixtures. For furniture, cabinets or wooden floors, specific wood polishes can be used so as not to affect the wood’s appearance.”

For employers: This question assesses the candidate’s knowledge of best cleaning practices and scenarios in which certain equipment, including cleaning chemicals, would be necessary.

For applicants: The interviewer is looking for assurance that you know about the appropriate use, dilution ratios and safety precautions related to different cleaning products.

Example answer: “When I begin my work, I gather all the necessary supplies and equipment and make sure everything is in good working order. Then, I check the space to identify which areas need more attention.

I normally start with tasks like dusting and surface cleaning, then move on to vacuuming or mopping floors. Throughout the process, I make sure no area is overlooked. I use appropriate cleaning products for each surface and wear gloves or use special equipment when needed.

In bathrooms, I start with the counters and mirrors and move to the toilets and floors. In kitchens, I clean counters and sinks first, then wipe down appliances, clean inside and outside of cabinets and drawers, and mop the floor last.

Once I’ve completed the cleaning, I do a final check to ensure everything meets the client’s standards before considering the task done.”

For employers: This question tells you the candidate’s practical approach to the cleaning duties. Assess how they prioritize tasks by importance and urgency to get things done effectively in a timely manner.

For applicants: Keep in mind that the interviewer is interested in how you organize your tasks for the day — especially given the multiple tasks you have to juggle as a Housekeeper. Make sure you highlight how you keep everything spotless while also considering safety measures.

Example answer: “To meet top cleanliness standards, I first understand the job expectations. I also need to consider any special requests from clients, if there are any.

I normally have a checklist ready before starting any task. This checklist includes steps to take to ensure cleanliness, organization and sanitization. For example, to ensure proper sanitization, I clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces like doorknobs and light switches.

I then go back to this checklist when I think I’m done to make sure everything is accounted for.”

For employers: This question provides insight into the candidate’s attention to detail and their understanding of what makes a great impression and a “job well done.”

For applicants: To answer this question, it’s important first to set your own standards of cleanliness. You can start by describing your standards of what makes a place clean enough to keep clients happy and satisfied.

Your previous employment can influence these standards. Then, describe the specific steps you take to make sure that each of these standards is met.

These steps can include checking whether the cleaning equipment works properly and rechecking the space to make sure no area is overlooked.

Example answer: “When a client has a special request, I listen attentively and reassure them that I’ll get the job done. Should the request go beyond the service to be provided, I discuss possible alternatives or other services they can avail of so they can get the results they need.”

For employers: This gauges how accommodating the candidate is and how clear they are when discussing additional requests. It can also demonstrate the candidate’s ability to upsell when applicable.

For applicants: You should have a good understanding of the most common cleaning services and which is most appropriate given the client’s requirements. Make sure you describe your approach to communicating with clients to make sure that they get the best service possible.

Example answer: “Clients can have peace of mind, knowing their space is in capable hands. In every task, I make sure everything is accounted for with great care. If the client has special instructions, I take note of them and make sure they’re followed.

I take pride in maintaining a spotless record in all the places I’ve cleaned, with zero incidents of item losses or privacy concerns.”

For employers: It’s important to hire candidates who can maintain professionalism and exercise good judgment when handling the client’s personal belongings or delicate information. Look for specific steps they have taken or will take to respect their client’s privacy at all times.

For applicants: Housekeepers need to be reliable and trustworthy, as clients give them autonomy to go about their property with minimal supervision. Make sure you highlight how you can be counted on and your track record of maintaining privacy and safeguarding belongings without incident across past housekeeping experience assignments.

Example answer: “If faced with such accusations, I would do my best to keep calm as I explain my side of the story. I’ll give them a summary of how my cleaning process went and offer to support any investigation.

I’ll also describe my track record in my years of experience as a Housekeeper so they can learn more about my background and honesty.

If I put myself in the client’s shoes, I can understand why they would feel emotional or even angry. I have to keep in mind that they’re not angry at me — they’re disappointed about what happened.”

For employers: This question shows the candidate’s ability to remain composed and communicate effectively. Be mindful of how they ensure they remain honest and respectful even when being falsely accused.

For applicants: Your priority should be to remain calm and respectfully explain your innocence. If necessary, offer your full cooperation with any further investigation. It’s best to discuss the matter with your employer and do your best to resolve the issue amicably.

Example answer: “In such a scenario, I would use translation tools or applications on my phone to bridge the language gap. If I had been informed earlier about the client, I would have tried to learn basic Spanish phrases relevant to my job duties beforehand.

I also ensure that my nonverbal cues, including gestures and facial expressions, are appropriate to avoid further misinterpretation. If all else doesn’t work, I will contact my employer and ask for help.”

For employers: This question assesses the candidate’s ability to think on their feet in an unexpected situation. It can also give you a clear idea of the candidate’s thought process and resourcefulness.

For applicants: Don’t panic. Be patient and seek hints through common words you and the client know, as well as signs and gestures. Check if there’s someone who can assist you in communicating with the client.

If no one else is available, maximize the translation technology on your phone or computer. If needed, ask your employer for assistance.

If you were informed days ahead, you can also learn a few Spanish phrases that will make communicating with the client much easier.

Example answer: “If a client experiences an injury or medical event, my first step would be to ensure their safety and well-being. I would immediately call emergency services and provide any necessary first aid within my training and capabilities.

Throughout the process, I would communicate with the client to keep them calm and informed until professional medical help arrives.”

For employers: This question evaluates the candidate’s decision making and ability to remain calm during emergencies. You can even be more specific about the injury or medical event to get an idea of their first aid knowledge, if any, and their prioritization skills.

For applicants: Your first step should be to ensure the criticalness of the injury or situation, take necessary steps to prevent it from escalation and, in serious cases, seek urgent medical care from a nearby hospital.

Example answer: “If I accidentally broke the client’s vase, I would take immediate responsibility for my actions and apologize sincerely.

I would offer to replace the vase or reimburse the client for its value, whichever they prefer. I’ll be transparent and upfront, and I will take extra care while handling such items in the future.”

For employers: This question assesses the candidate’s honesty, accountability and problem-solving skills in addressing mistakes. The candidate should get extra points should they talk about preventive measures.

For applicants: Be sure to stay honest and transparent with your response to the client. Emphasize how you will take accountability for your actions and ensure the same mistake isn’t repeated.