Top 20 Interview Questions & Answers for Busser Roles – 2025

Are you excited about applying for a busser position? We've got you covered. This guide provides a comprehensive list of interview questions and answers that will help you showcase your skills, experience, and passion for customer service and hospitality. Whether you're applying for a role in a fast-paced restaurant or a more upscale establishment, these questions cover all essential aspects of the job.

General Questions

• 1. Why do you want to work as a busser?
  I have always enjoyed working in a fast-paced environment and interacting with customers. As a busser, I have the opportunity to do both while also contributing to the smooth running of the restaurant.
• 2. What do you think are the key responsibilities of a busser?
  The key responsibilities of a busser include clearing and setting tables, refilling water and bread baskets, assisting servers, and maintaining a clean and organized dining area.
• 3. How willing are you to work flexible hours?
  I am very willing to work flexible hours as I understand that this is necessary in the restaurant industry, especially during busy periods.
• 4. Can you handle physical tasks, such as carrying heavy trays and standing for long periods?
  Yes, I am physically fit and capable of handling all the tasks required of a busser.
• 5. How do you handle difficult customers?
  I understand that not every customer may be happy, but I always remain calm, listen to their concerns, and try to find a solution to make their experience better. If necessary, I will involve a manager or server to help resolve the situation.

Behavioral Questions

• 6. Tell me about a time when you went above and beyond for a customer.
  In my previous job as a busser, a customer accidentally spilled their drink all over their lap. As soon as I noticed, I immediately brought them napkins and a new drink. I then offered to pay for their dry cleaning, which the customer greatly appreciated.
• 7. How do you prioritize your tasks in a fast-paced environment?
  I prioritize my tasks by first clearing and setting the tables that are needed for incoming guests. I then make sure to assist servers with bringing orders and refilling drinks. Once the rush has died down, I focus on restocking and cleaning the dining area.
• 8. Describe a time when you had to handle a difficult task or request from a server.
  There was one time when a server asked me to clear a table that was in the middle of a busy section. Instead of interrupting the other guests, I communicated with my team and found a way to clear the table efficiently and discreetly without disrupting anyone else's dining experience.
• 9. Talk about a situation where you had to quickly adapt to a change in the dining room layout.
  During a busy Friday night, one of our large tables was suddenly moved to a private room for a last-minute event. This changed the whole layout of our dining room, but I quickly adapted by rearranging tables, communicating with the servers, and making sure everything was still running smoothly.
• 10. Give an example of a time where you had to multitask efficiently.
  During a particularly busy lunch rush, I had to clear tables, assist servers, and refill drinks for a large section all at the same time. I managed to prioritize and complete all tasks without any complaints from guests or delays in service.

Customer Service & Cultural Fit

• 11. How do you ensure that guests have a positive dining experience?
  I always greet guests with a smile and make sure to attend to their needs as quickly and efficiently as possible. I also take the time to engage with them, making sure they are satisfied with their meals, drinks, and overall experience.
• 12. Can you give an example of how you handle a demanding customer while maintaining a positive attitude?
  There was a customer who was unhappy with their meal and raised their voice while talking to the server. I approached the table and calmly apologized for the inconvenience. I listened to the customer's concerns and took prompt action to fix the issue without getting upset or defensive.
• 13. How do you ensure that the dining area is always clean and presentable?
  I make sure to constantly check and clean tables, chairs, and floors throughout the shift. I also restock necessary items such as napkins, silverware, and condiments to maintain a smooth flow of service.
• 14. In your opinion, what makes good teamwork in a restaurant setting?
  Good teamwork in a restaurant setting involves clear communication, efficient task delegation, and being able to support and assist each other to provide the best service to our guests.
• 15. Why do you think it's important to maintain a positive attitude while working in a team?
  A positive attitude helps to create a harmonious working environment, which ultimately translates to a better experience for the guests. It also helps build strong relationships with coworkers and fosters a sense of camaraderie within the team.

Situational Questions

• 16. How would you handle a situation where a table has been waiting for their food for more than 30 minutes?
  I would first apologize for the delay and inform the server and kitchen staff immediately. I would then offer the table complimentary bread or a complimentary appetizer to make up for the delay.
• 17. What would you do if there was a spill on the floor and guests were walking around?
  I would quickly clean up the spill and place a “wet floor” sign to alert guests of the hazard. I would also apologize to any guests who may have gotten their shoes wet and offer to bring them a towel or a clean pair of socks.
• 18. How would you handle a situation where a guest has a severe food allergy?
  I would first ensure that all staff, including the kitchen, is aware of the allergy. I would then take extra precautions and communicate with the kitchen to make sure the guest's meal is prepared separately to avoid any cross-contamination.
• 19. What would you do if you discovered a guest's meal was not cooked according to their request?
  I would apologize to the guest and inform the server immediately. I would also offer to take the dish back to the kitchen and have it remade to their preferences as quickly as possible.
• 20. How would you handle a situation where a guest is unsatisfied with their experience and asks to speak to a manager?
  I would calmly apologize to the guest and inform them that I will bring a manager to speak with them. Before involving the manager, I would do my best to address the issue and find a solution to make the guest's experience better.