An interview process will decide if you are indeed a good enough barback to hire. Even if your job application documents were immaculate, they won’t help you if you do not ace the interview.
The good news is that you do not need to do much to be successful at an interview, especially if you are aware of the work that you will be expected to perform if hired.
The trick is to make sure that you are aware of at least some of the questions that might be shot your way.
For a barback position, you can look through the following set of interview questions and answers:
Barback Interview Questions and Answers
1. How did you decide to take up working as a barback? What was your motivation?
I have always been fascinated by bartending work, and since I know that this work can be quite challenging at times, I wanted to start at the beginning. Working as a barback will help me understand the details and intricacies of handling a bar, which is what motivated me to work in this role.
2. What duties have you performed in the role of a barback in your present position?
In my present position as a barback, I have been handling a wide variety of work including ensuring that the bartender has access to liquor, water bottles, and juice, making sure that kegs are timely changed, cutting and preparing fruit and garnishes for drinks, ensuring the cleanliness of the bar and surrounding areas, and ascertaining that tables and chairs are properly cleaned and tidied as soon as patrons leave.
3. What type of skills do you think are necessary to work as a barback?
Apart from possessing exceptional skills in handling “behind the scenes” bartending work, one has to be an exceptional communicator, with great proficiencies in providing well-placed customer services.
4. What has been your greatest accomplishment as a barback?
Three months ago, I was asked to man the bar all by myself (for 7 straight hours), in the absence of the bartender who failed to report to duty. I managed to complete the shift without any complaints from patrons. I believe that this has been my greatest accomplishment so far.
5. How do you handle irate customers/patrons?
While I do not usually have great interaction with patrons, in cases where I do, I make sure that I use a calm approach to resolving issues. Staying calm in the face of adversity always works.
6. Where do you see yourself 3 years from now, professionally speaking?
Since I have aspired to work as a bartender for so long, I am hoping to work in this role within the next couple of years. I am certainly working hard to make sure that I reach this milestone soon.