Make sure you’re ready for your housekeeping job interview by reading our guide on the most commonly asked Housekeeper interview questions — categorized by skills and experience, customer service and situation or behavior.
This guide provides job seekers with insights into what to expect during a housekeeping interview and how to best answer each question the interviewer asks.
Meanwhile, an interviewer or hiring manager can find a collection of commonly asked questions to ask a Housekeeper in an interview and learn how to approach each inquiry to better gauge qualified candidates.
Housekeeping Interview Questions About Skills and Experience
As a candidate, you should outline your experience so interviewers can immediately assess your suitability for the Housekeeper role.
If you have yet to gain prior professional experience, take the opportunity to highlight any other previous jobs or responsibilities where you demonstrated your skills and aptitude.
On the other hand, if you’re an interviewer, ask questions about skills and experience to assess the candidates’ competency and verify their qualifications.
This will give you a good prediction of the candidates’ performance and identify the need for any further training should the candidates get accepted.
1. Can you describe your housekeeping experience?
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’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.”
2. Can you describe your familiarity with different cleaning chemicals and how to use them?
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: “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.”
3. Can you describe your cleaning process from start to finish?
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: “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.”
4. How do you make sure your work meets cleanliness standards?
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: “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.”
To learn more about the Housekeeper role, check out our Housekeeper Job Description.
Housekeeper responsibilities
View the video below for a sneak peek into a Housekeeper’s daily tasks.
[Source: Center Parcs Careers]
Housekeeper Interview Questions About Customer Service
A good Housekeeper’s job isn’t just cleaning — it’s about making sure their work meets or exceeds the client’s expectations.
Candidates should understand that the housekeeping job also involves direct interactions with clients. They also need to respond to requests or address concerns.
Interviewers should assess the ability of the Housekeeper candidates to build rapport and trust with clients. If candidates excel in customer service, potential employers can guide them on how to upsell additional services or amenities.
5. How do you handle requests for additional cleaning services from clients?
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: “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.”
6. How do you guarantee confidentiality while performing your duties?
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: “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.”
Situational/Behavioral Questions Asked in a Housekeeping Interview
Candidates should prepare for these questions to effectively highlight their problem-solving abilities. Housekeepers need to be proactive and prepared for unexpected situations like maintenance issues, lost or missing items, etc.
Interviewers can evaluate the candidates’ preparedness and awareness of potential challenges in the Housekeeper role.
7. What do you do when an employer blames you for theft, even when you’re innocent?
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: “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.”
8. Let’s say you’re assigned to a client who only speaks Spanish, and you only speak English. How would you communicate with the client to learn their requirements?
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: “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.”
Practice your Spanish as a Housekeeper
Here’s a short video on common housekeeping Spanish terms and phrases you can use should this exact situation happen to you!
[Source: 7 Minute Language School]
9. How would you handle a situation wherein a client experiences an injury or medical event while you’re working?
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 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.”
10. Let’s say you accidentally broke the client’s vase. What would you do after?
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.
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.”
How To Prepare for a Housekeeping Job Interview
Remember the points below to prepare for your next Housekeeper interview, whether you’re a candidate or an interviewer.
As a candidate:
- Do your research on the employer interviewing you. Check their website and services, and know more about their cleaning standards and other specific areas of focus.
- Review the job description carefully and understand the employer’s expectations. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with the housekeeping responsibilities listed. It’s best to emphasize how you handled tight schedules or difficult cleaning tasks.
- Familiarize yourself with various cleaning agents, chemical cleaners, tools and methods, and know when and how to use them.
As an interviewer or hiring manager:
- Prepare questions that gauge the candidate’s skills, such as organization or time management. Ask about specific instances where they demonstrated such skills.
- Consider including situational questions to evaluate their problem-solving abilities and cleaning knowledge. Present scenarios, such as dealing with tough stains or spills on different surfaces.
- Communication is important in housekeeping. It’s important to know how they interact with clients or colleagues, as well as handle criticism or complaints. Ask about their experience working within a housekeeping team as well.
- Encourage candidates to share their personal experiences — not vague opinions. Make sure they feel comfortable and respected every time they answer your questions.
