We have compiled a short list of five interview questions with guidelines for both interviewers and applicants on how to achieve optimal result in their respective goals.
1. What do you know about the kitchen you will be working at?
For the interviewer: This question can help you gain insight into the candidate’s familiarity with the kitchen environment, as well as their passion for line cooking.
You should look for answers that demonstrate a love for cooking and a desire to learn and grow as a line cook.
For the applicant: In response to this question, you should emphasize your passion for line cooking and your experience working in a kitchen environment.
Remember to express a commitment to maintaining high standards of quality and efficiency in your work.
2. What do you know about the specific health codes and regulations that apply to our state/county as a line cook?
For the interviewer: This question can help you gauge the candidate’s knowledge of health codes and regulations specific to your state/county, as well as their commitment to food safety and sanitation.
Look for answers that demonstrate familiarity with regulations and a willingness to follow them.
For the applicant: In response, highlight your knowledge of state/county health codes and regulations, emphasizing your commitment to food safety and sanitation.
Mention any previous training and experience in adhering to regulations.
3. Could you tell me about a time when you made a mistake at work? How did you handle the situation?
For the interviewer: This question can help you evaluate the candidate’s ability to handle mistakes and adversity in the kitchen.
Look for answers that demonstrate accountability, problem-solving skills and a willingness to learn from mistakes.
For the applicant: When responding to this question, highlight a specific situation where you made a mistake in the kitchen, emphasizing how you took responsibility for the error and worked to rectify it.
Talk about how you communicated with your team and any steps you took to prevent similar mistakes from happening in the future.
4. What techniques do you use to ensure food quality and consistency as a line cook?
For the interviewer: This question can help you assess the candidate’s understanding of food quality and consistency and their ability to maintain these standards.
Look for answers that demonstrate knowledge of techniques like temperature control, proper seasoning and recipe adherence.
For the applicant: When responding to this question, highlight the techniques you use to ensure that the food you prepare meets high standards of quality and consistency.
Talk about how you check for doneness, adjust seasonings and ensure that recipes are followed accurately.
5. Can you tell me about a time when you had to work collaboratively with your team to complete a task or project?
For the interviewer: This question can help you assess the candidate’s ability to work collaboratively with others in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
Look for answers that demonstrate strong communication skills, a positive attitude and an ability to work well under pressure.
For the applicant: When responding to this question, highlight a specific situation where you had to work collaboratively with your team to complete a task or project.
Talk about how you communicated with your team members, how you delegated tasks and how you worked together to achieve a common goal.
Tip: A follow-up email after your line cook interview can highlight your continued interest in the position.
