As you gear up for the interview, remember, it’s not just about your cooking skills; it’s about showcasing your passion, creativity, and adaptability. Check out our tips from the INAC Hospitality team to prep for your big day.
- Understand the Role
Before you step in, research the position. Study the job description, listing the skills needed to tailor your responses during the interview
- Dress for Success
Just like in the kitchen, presentation matters. Dress professionally, whether in a chef’s jacket or business casual attire. It shows respect for the industry. And for remote interviews, make sure your virtual setup reflects your professionalism!
- Highlight Your Culinary Skills
Your culinary prowess is the star. Be ready to discuss your expertise, kitchen management skills, menu development, and cost control abilities.
- Culinary Expertise: Share your expertise in various cooking techniques, types of cuisine, and your experience working in different culinary environments.
- Kitchen Management: Discuss your skills in managing a kitchen, leading a team, and ensuring a smooth operation during busy periods.
- Menu Development: Talk about your involvement in creating menus, seasonal dishes, and your ability to cater to diverse tastes.
- Costing: Discuss cost control abilities: depending on the role you will often have a say in menu planning and cost control. Share your experience in creating cost-effective yet delectable dishes, minimising food waste, and maximising profitability while maintaining high-quality standards.
- Be Prepared for Behavioral Questions
Get ready for behavioural questions. Share experiences dealing with high-pressure scenarios and leading a team. Your stories make you memorable.
- “Can you describe a situation where you had to handle high-pressure scenarios in the kitchen and how you managed it?”
- “Tell us about a time when you had to lead a team of chefs to achieve a common goal. What was the outcome?”
- Ask Thoughtful Questions
- How Adaptable are you
In the fast-paced world of kitchens, adaptability is key. Share examples of adjusting to new cuisines or handling sudden changes in the kitchen.
- Cuisine: Share an example of how you adapted to a dietary or when you have to re work a dishin your previous role
- Kitchen: Talk about a time when you had to quickly adjust to sudden change in the kitchen and how did you handle it.
Remember, the interview is an opportunity for you to evaluate the employer and the potential workplace as well. Consider asking questions such as:
- The specific expectations and challenges of the chef role.
- Opportunities for professional growth and development within the culinary establishment.
