This is the first question that is usually asked in an interview. It breaks the ice and helps you to talk about something you are comfortable with. The interviewer usually expects to hear about a particular aspect of your background that you would like to elaborate. You should be appropriately focussed and avoid confusion. You should have the answer prepared but it
should not seem rehearsed. The answer to this question should convey some relevance to your professional aspirations and achievements. You could highlight your education, career and current situation chronologically from the past to the present.
2. Why do you Want to Work with this Hotel?
To answer this question properly you need to have researched the company/hotel, their website and unique features. A suitable answer would be that you want to work for the hotel as it is a market leader, innovator or provides a vital service. Put some thought into how you will answer this question beforehand, be specific and link the company’s values and mission statement to your own goals and career plans.
You can also emphasize the various attributes of the company and add that you enjoy your work and know that the company has an excellent reputation and shares similar values which will enable you to fit in and complement the team.
3. What did you Like/Dislike About your Last Job/Training?
Most interviewers start the initial interview with an introductory statement about the company. You should pay attention as that information will help you answer this question. In fact, any statement the interviewer makes about the job or corporation could be used to your advantage.
Sharing any negative thoughts about your present employer with the interviewer might be a problem. Try to keep your answer short and precise.
You can also say that you really liked everything about the job and the reason you want to leave is to find a position where you can make a greater contribution to a large corporation that encourages specialization of skills.
4. Who are Our Main Competitors?
This shows that you really understand the industry and the main players.
Think about a few competitors and say how you think they compare (similarities, differences) with this company. This is a good opportunity to highlight what you think are the company’s key strengths.
5. What are your Major Accomplishments?
It is important to keep this answer job related. If you do not want to sound too modest, you may begin your reply with, “Although I feel my biggest accomplishments are still ahead of me, I am proud of my involvement when I made my contribution as part of that team and learned a lot in the process”.
6. Can you Work Under Pressure and Stressful Conditions?
Hospitality professionals are often under pressure and stress. You can respond to this question by saying that you are a person who works well under pressure. Whatever the case, make sure you do not say that you panic.
You may wish to give specific examples of stressful situations and how well you dealt with them. You may also want to list a few tools you use to help such as to-do lists, etc. It is alright to say that you will ask for assistance when the job is more than what you can handle. It is equally acceptable to say that you work best under pressure if this is indeed the case and relevant to the particular role.
7. How do you Like to be Directed?
The interviewer wants to know if you are open-minded and can be a team player. This type of question can also be interpreted as, “How do you accept criticism?” Your answer should cover both areas; “I take directions well and recognize that they can come in a variety of different forms. I think it’s important to accept all directions and criticism, as there are always other considerations I am not aware of, and taking such advice will allow me to grow as a professional.”
8. Are you Looking for Another Job Offer?
Although the question appears to be simple it may be tricky to answer. It is suggested that you should not mention money at this stage as you may come across as a greedy person. If you have job offers then it is likely that you are applying for other positions. It is also a way of showing that you are in demand. Be honest but do not go into much detail as you should not
spend a lot of time on this question. If asked about the names of hotels or organizations that you have spoken to/interviewed with, it is absolutely acceptable to say that you prefer not to disclose this information at this stage.
9. Do you like Working in a Team?
Your answer should be that you are an excellent team player as no individual can function in an organization as a loner. You can also mention what type of role you tend to adopt in a team, especially if you want to emphasize key skills such as leadership.
10. What is your Greatest Strength?
The interviewer is focussed on work related strengths. You could highlight some of your qualities, for example, a motivator, problem solver, perform well under pressure, loyal, positive attitude, eager to learn, take the initiative, attention to detail, with examples to show the requisite strength.
11. What is your Main Weakness?
This is a challenging question because if you say that you have no weaknesses it means you are obviously lying as no human is perfect. Be realistic and mention a small work related flaw; some people would suggest answering this using a positive trait disguised as a flaw such as, “I’m a perfectionist” or “I expect others to be as committed as I am.” This question is actually all about how you perceive and evaluate yourself.
12. What Would you Like to be Doing Five years From Now?
It is important to remember that all roles nowadays require teamwork and communication. These two skills, and the behaviour emanating from developing them, will allow you to broaden your opportunities in the work environment. The safest answer to this question is focused around the desire to be regarded as a qualified professional and a team player.
13. Are you Willing to Travel or Relocate if Necessary?
You should be very clear in your mind prior to the interview about your location. There is no point in first agreeing just to get the job if the real answer later is negative. Be honest, as this point can save you from the problems arising in the future.
14. Why do you Think we Should Hire You?
This is an important question that you will need to answer carefully. It is your chance to stand out and draw attention to your skills which have not been addressed. Concentrate on your strengths rather than on others’ flaws.
If given an opportunity explain why you make a good employee, why you are a good fit for the job and the company and what you can offer, highlighting your achievements. This answer should be short and crisp. It should emphasize areas of your background and experience that relate to the job’s needs and how you satisfy those criteria.
15. If Given a Suitable Opportunity Would you Opt for Higher Studies?
The answer should be very diplomatic and in a positive frame. You could say that presently your plans are not focussed on it but later if the organization so feels that higher studies would be needed for additional responsibilities you would opt for them.
16. What are your Expectations Regarding Salary?
You should be sure about the training programme for which they wish to select you and have an idea of what this job is offering. It is advisable that you avoid the question altogether as you could say that at this moment you are looking to advance in your career, gain knowledge and experience as money is not your main motivator.
17. Do you Have any Questions for Us?
This question is often asked when the interview is coming to a close. You could have some questions prepared which will show that you have done some research and are eager to know and learn. You may not wish to ask two or three questions. A general question might be, “How soon can I start if I were to get the job.”