10 Best Questions to Ask a Bartender in an Interview (2024)

Employers seeking to hire bartenders for their restaurant or event understand the importance of hiring the right people. This is a chance to hire someone who effectively becomes a face of the business. As with any role, it’s important to not overlook the interview process in order to get the best idea of how the candidate would perform, if hired.

Why is it important to have good bartenders on staff?

For any establishment serving alcoholic beverages, having a good bartender is imperative for a restaurant or event for several reasons.

Customer experience: Bartenders often have the most direct contact with customers, making them key players in shaping the customer's experience. A good bartender can make customers feel welcome and valued, which can significantly enhance their overall experience.
Skill and knowledge: A good bartender has a deep understanding of mixology, including knowledge of various types of alcohol, co*cktail recipes, and pairing drinks with food. This expertise can elevate the quality of the drinks served and contribute to a more sophisticated dining or event experience.
Efficiency: Bartenders often work in fast-paced environments, and their ability to work efficiently can greatly impact the flow of service. A good bartender can quickly and accurately mix drinks, manage multiple orders, and handle transactions, ensuring customers are served promptly.
Problem-solving: Bartenders often need to handle challenging situations, such as dealing with unruly customers or managing supply shortages. A good bartender can effectively navigate these challenges, ensuring minimal disruption to the service and customer experience.
Revenue generation: Bartenders play a significant role in a restaurant or event's profitability. By upselling premium drinks, creating appealing specials, and providing excellent service that encourages customers to stay longer, they can significantly boost revenue.

In the hospitality industry, customer service is paramount. It can make the difference between a one-time visit and a loyal, repeat customer. Excellent customer service can lead to positive reviews and word-of-mouth referrals, helping to enhance the establishment's reputation and attract more customers. A good bartender, with their direct interaction with customers, plays a crucial role in delivering this high level of customer service.

10 questions to ask in an interview for a bartending position

In order to tease out the best answers and get a good understanding of the candidate, the top 10 questions to ask a bartender in an interview are:

1. Can you describe your previous experience as a bartender?

An important factor to remember is if the candidate doesn't have previous experience as a bartender but has relevant skills from other roles, they may still be a strong candidate. Transferable skills such as customer service, cash handling, and working under pressure are all valuable in a bartending role. Otherwise, you should be looking for several key elements in the candidate’s answer:

Technical skills: You want to hear about their ability to mix drinks, knowledge of different types of alcohol, and familiarity with various co*cktail recipes. They should also mention their ability to handle cash transactions and use point-of-sale systems.
Customer service: Excellent customer service is crucial in bartending. Look for examples of how they've provided great service in the past, handled customer complaints, or went above and beyond to ensure customer satisfaction.
Handling pressure: Bartending can be a high-pressure job, especially during busy periods. Candidates should be able to demonstrate their ability to stay calm and efficient under pressure.
Knowledge of regulations: They should have a good understanding of the local and state laws regarding alcohol service, including when and to whom they can serve alcohol.
Teamwork: Bartenders often work as part of a team. Candidates should be able to provide examples of how they've effectively worked with others in a bar setting.
Problem-solving: Look for examples of how they've dealt with challenges or problems in a bar setting, such as dealing with difficult customers or resolving conflicts.
Longevity and commitment: If a candidate has held previous bartending roles for a significant period, it can indicate reliability and commitment. It also suggests they enjoyed the work and were successful in the role.

2. How do you handle difficult or unruly customers?

The goal is to ensure that the candidate can maintain a high level of customer service and professionalism, even when faced with challenging situations. Here are specific key elements in the candidate’s answer you should be looking for:

Communication skills: The candidate should demonstrate their ability to communicate effectively and professionally, even in challenging situations. They should be able to articulate how they would calmly and respectfully address the customer's behavior.
Problem-solving skills: Look for examples of how the candidate has diffused tense situations in the past. This could involve offering a solution to a customer's complaint, involving a manager when necessary, or finding other creative ways to ensure customer satisfaction while maintaining a safe and pleasant environment for all patrons.
Patience and empathy: Dealing with difficult customers requires a great deal of patience and empathy. The candidate should show that they can understand the customer's perspective and respond in a way that validates their feelings, while also maintaining the bar's standards.
Adherence to policies: The candidate should demonstrate an understanding of the importance of adhering to company policies and local laws, especially when dealing with unruly customers. This might involve refusing service to overly intoxicated customers or involving security or law enforcement when necessary.
De-escalation techniques: In some cases, bartenders may need to de-escalate situations with unruly customers. Candidates should be able to explain how they would calm a situation to prevent it from escalating further.

3. How do you manage your time during busy periods?

The goal is to feel comfortable that the candidate can maintain a high level of service and efficiency, even during peak times. Here are specific key elements in the candidate’s answer you should be looking for:

Prioritization skills: The candidate should demonstrate their ability to prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance. They should be able to quickly assess what needs to be done first and act accordingly.
Multitasking ability: Bartending often requires juggling multiple tasks at once. Look for examples of how the candidate has successfully managed multiple responsibilities simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
Efficiency: The candidate should be able to explain how they perform their duties efficiently. This could involve grouping tasks together, using downtime effectively, or finding ways to perform tasks more quickly without sacrificing quality.
Stress management: Busy periods can be stressful. The candidate should demonstrate their ability to stay calm and focused under pressure, and not let stress affect their performance or customer service.
Proactivity: Look for signs that the candidate is proactive in managing their time. This could involve anticipating busy periods and preparing in advance, or taking the initiative to perform tasks without being asked.

4. Can you describe a time when you had to deal with a difficult situation at work and how you handled it?

The goal is to understand how the candidate handles challenges and adversity in a work setting. Their response can give you a lot of insight into their character, their work style, and their suitability for the role. Here are specific key elements in the candidate’s answer you should be looking for:

5. How do you ensure accuracy when mixing drinks and serving customers?

You should feel confident that the candidate can deliver high-quality, consistent service to your customers, even during busy periods after going through this question. Here are specific key elements in the candidate’s answer you should be looking for:

Knowledge and skills: The candidate should demonstrate a solid understanding of different types of drinks and how to mix them correctly. They should also show familiarity with the tools and techniques used in bartending.
Attention to detail: Accuracy in mixing drinks and serving customers requires a high level of attention to detail. Look for examples of how the candidate has used this skill in their previous roles.
Consistency: Consistency is key in bartending. The candidate should be able to explain how they ensure each drink they make is consistent in taste and presentation.
Memory: A good bartender needs to remember multiple orders at once. The candidate should demonstrate their ability to remember complex drink orders and customer preferences.
Adherence to policies: The candidate should show that they understand and adhere to the establishment's policies regarding drink preparation and serving, including portion control and alcohol serving laws.
Use of technology: If your establishment uses a point-of-sale system or other technology to track orders, the candidate should demonstrate their ability to use these tools effectively to ensure accuracy.

6. How do you keep up-to-date with current trends in the bar industry?

You will want to ensure that the candidate is committed to staying current in their role and is able to bring new ideas and trends to your establishment through their answer. Here are specific key elements in the candidate’s answer you should be looking for:

Proactive learning: The candidate should demonstrate a commitment to ongoing learning and professional development. This could involve attending industry events, taking courses, or seeking out mentorship opportunities.
Industry engagement: Look for signs that the candidate actively engages with the industry. This could involve reading industry publications, following influential bartenders or bars on social media, or participating in industry forums or groups.
Experimentation: The candidate should show a willingness to experiment with new techniques, ingredients, and trends. They should be able to give examples of how they've incorporated new trends into their work.
Customer feedback: The candidate should demonstrate an understanding of the importance of customer feedback in identifying and responding to trends. They should be able to explain how they gather and use customer feedback to improve their service.
Knowledge of current trends: The candidate should be able to discuss current trends in the bar industry. This shows that they have a good understanding of the industry and are actively keeping up-to-date.

7. How would you handle a situation where a customer has had too much to drink?

Similar to the question “How do you handle difficult or unruly customers?,” the goal is to ensure that the candidate can handle such situations responsibly, professionally, and in accordance with the law and your establishment's policies. Here are specific key elements in the candidate’s answer you should be looking for:

Knowledge of laws and policies: The candidate should demonstrate a clear understanding of local and state laws, as well as your establishment's policies regarding serving alcohol to intoxicated customers. They should know when and how to refuse service appropriately.
Communication skills: The candidate should be able to explain how they would communicate with the customer in a respectful, clear, and firm manner. They should be able to de-escalate the situation and avoid confrontation.
Problem-solving skills: Look for examples of how the candidate has handled similar situations in the past. They should be able to provide a solution that ensures the safety and satisfaction of all customers, such as arranging for a taxi or suggesting the customer have some water or food.
Empathy and sensitivity: The candidate should show empathy and sensitivity in handling such situations. They should understand the potential embarrassment for the customer and handle the situation discreetly.
Teamwork: The candidate should be able to explain how they would work with their colleagues or a manager to handle the situation. This could involve getting assistance from a bouncer or involving a manager when necessary.

8. Can you describe your knowledge of local and state alcohol laws?

You should have the takeaway that the candidate is well-versed in the legal aspects of serving alcohol and is committed to upholding these laws in your establishment. Here are specific key elements in the candidate’s answer you should be looking for:

Understanding of laws: The candidate should demonstrate a clear understanding of the local and state laws regarding alcohol service. This includes knowing the legal drinking age, understanding regulations about serving intoxicated patrons, and being aware of hours when alcohol sales are permitted.
Compliance: The candidate should emphasize their commitment to adhering to these laws in all situations. They should understand the serious consequences of non-compliance, both for themselves and for the establishment.
Training: If the candidate has undergone formal training, such as a responsible service of alcohol (RSA) course, this is a good sign that they take their legal responsibilities seriously.
Practical application: The candidate should be able to explain how they apply their knowledge of alcohol laws in their day-to-day work. This could involve checking IDs, refusing service to intoxicated customers, or managing situations where customers try to break the law.
Continuous learning: Laws can change, so the candidate should demonstrate a commitment to staying up-to-date with any changes to local and state alcohol laws.

9. How do you maintain cleanliness and organization in your work area?

Through the candidate’s response, you will want to feel confident that they can maintain a clean and organized work area, which is crucial for efficiency, customer satisfaction, and compliance with health and safety regulations. Here are specific key elements in the candidate’s answer you should be looking for:

Understanding of importance: The candidate should demonstrate an understanding of the importance of cleanliness and organization in a bar setting, not only for efficiency and aesthetics but also for health and safety reasons.
Routine cleaning: The candidate should explain their routine for keeping their work area clean. This might include cleaning as they go, wiping down surfaces regularly, and ensuring tools and glasses are cleaned promptly.
Organization skills: The candidate should be able to explain how they keep their work area organized. This could involve a specific system for arranging tools and ingredients, restocking items promptly, or managing the disposal of waste efficiently.
Adherence to health and safety regulations: The candidate should demonstrate knowledge of health and safety regulations related to cleanliness in a bar setting. They should explain how they adhere to these regulations in their work.
Proactivity: Look for signs that the candidate takes a proactive approach to cleanliness and organization. They should not wait until the end of their shift to clean up, but rather maintain cleanliness and organization throughout their shift.

10. Can you describe a time when you provided excellent customer service as a bartender?

You’ll want to understand how the candidate interacts with customers and how they strive to provide excellent service. Their response can give you a lot of insight into their customer service skills and their suitability for the role. Here are specific key elements in the candidate’s answer you should be looking for:

Understanding of customer service: The candidate should demonstrate a clear understanding of what excellent customer service means in a bartending context. This could include attentiveness, friendliness, efficiency, and a willingness to go above and beyond to meet customer needs.
Specific example: The candidate should provide a specific example that clearly illustrates their customer service skills. This could be a situation where they handled a customer complaint, accommodated a special request, or simply provided exceptional service that led to a positive customer experience.
Problem-solving skills: If the example involves a problem or challenge, the candidate should explain how they resolved the issue and ensured the customer's satisfaction. This can give you insight into their problem-solving skills and their ability to handle difficult situations.
Outcome: The candidate should explain the outcome of the situation. Did their actions lead to a satisfied customer, a repeat visit, or a positive review? This can give you an idea of the impact of their customer service skills.
Reflection: The candidate should reflect on what they learned from the situation and how they might apply those lessons in the future. This shows that they are able to learn and grow from their experiences.

Bonus tip: Ask the bartending candidate to work a shift

In addition to a formal interview, you may also invite prospective bartenders to come in and work a shift. This allows you to see the candidate in action and assess their practical skills. It also gives the candidate a chance to demonstrate their ability to interact with customers, handle the pace of the job, and fit in with the existing team. This can be a valuable part of the hiring process, providing a more comprehensive assessment of the candidate's suitability for the role.

Conclusion

The interview process for bartenders is a critical component in the hiring process. It allows employers to assess a candidate's technical skills, interpersonal abilities, work ethic, and cultural fit. It provides an opportunity to verify credentials and understand the candidate's approach to customer service, problem-solving, and handling pressure. Additionally, it can offer valuable insights into a candidate's character and potential to contribute positively to the business. In some cases, having candidates work a trial shift can further enhance the assessment process, providing a real-time evaluation of their practical skills and ability to integrate into the team. Therefore, thorough and thoughtful interviewing is essential to making successful hiring decisions in the bartending profession.