Top 24 Housekeeping Interview Questions and Answers

Working in a housekeeping capacity requires hard work, physical capability, and stamina.

In addition, a housekeeper needs to interact with customers on a one-on-one basis, which is extremely challenging.

If you are hiring someone as a housekeeper or seeking a housekeeping position, the following housekeeping interview questions (along with appropriate answers) will be useful. 

1. Tell me a little bit about yourself?

Well, first of all, thank you very much for giving me the opportunity to be interviewed for this housekeeping position today. I would describe myself as a passionate housekeeper who is very hardworking and has extensive experience in hotel and household housekeeping. I am proficient in cleaning rooms, changing the linens, taking out the trash, and cleaning the bathrooms. Also, I am competent in clearing off snow from parking areas using manual and chemical procedures.

2. How did you learn about this job opening?

I was actively looking for a similar position when I can across your advertisement in the newspaper. Upon seeing that the match between your requirements and my qualifications is perfect, I decided to give it a shot.

3. Why did you choose to work in this Housekeeping position? 

I have exceptional cleaning skills, which make me comfortable while performing different kinds of cleaning and sanitation tasks. Besides, I have a demonstrated ability to perform minor repair and maintenance tasks. Because of these skills, I can provide exceptional housekeeping services.

4. Why do you want this job?
OR
Why do you want to work for us?

The qualifications which you have asked for are in perfect alignment with my skills and competencies. Once hired, I am sure that I will be a great contributor in many ways.

5. What are the key tasks of a housekeeper?

Typical housekeeping duties include; cleaning designated, changing linens, damp dusting horizontal surfaces, and vents, trash removal, cleaning/scouring sinks, mopping, vacuuming carpets, and washing windows, door frames, and other vertical surfaces. Also, there might be other tasks that may be assigned by the employer. Not to mention, I will be pleased to perform all of the given functions beyond my job scope.

6. How do you manage to complete multiple housekeeping tasks in a single day?

I am good at multitasking and task prioritization. When given multiple tasks for a day, I would immediately prioritize them and set them to work. This strategy almost always helps me in completing the day’s tasks, no matter how many there are.

7. Are you familiar with chemical cleaning precautions?

Yes, I am an expert in chemical cleaning and fully understand the precautions to be followed while using any chemical cleaners, including ice cleaners. I am capable of reading and following instructions that come with various chemical cleaning supplies.

8. What are the strengths that help you as a housekeeper?

My strengths are persistence, patience, and organization. These traits support me not only in the role of housekeeping but also in dealing with customers effectively.

9. How well do you work in a team?

I am good at interpersonal relationships and exercise my effective communication skills when needed to work in a team. I also try to help my colleagues whenever possible, which makes me a very productive team player.

10. Explain a time when your work was criticized? How did you handle it?

During my first year of work, my supervisor called me once and criticized me for not cleaning the windows correctly. I took the criticism positively and improved my window cleaning skills.

11. How do you react if you are asked to perform tasks that are not in your job description?

I am a helpful person, and generally, gladly fill in for my colleagues. However, if I am continuously asked to perform tasks that are not part of my duty, I would discuss the matter openly and politely with my supervisor.

12. How do you handle a client who is angry or upset and dissatisfied with your work?

If a client is not happy with my work, I apologize and then work on improving my services. I always try my best to understand the client’s housekeeping requirements fully and to deliver a high standard of housekeeping, and clients are generally happy with my work.

13. How do you manage to take on simultaneous tasks as is the nature of any hospitality job?

To be able to multitask, one has to have a clear head. I make sure I get enough sleep before I report to work, and I have a habit of not just multitasking physically but mentally as well. If one has to work in a capacity that is so demanding, one has to do a lot of mental computing to get the job done right.

14. How would you calm down a demanding customer?

I do not believe in arguing – so I will listen to what he or she has to say first without interrupting. When I know for sure what is bothering him or her, I will try to look for a solution that satisfies the customer and is also within the policies and procedures of the company.

15. How would you react if you see misconduct or inappropriate behavior in a fellow worker?

I will report it immediately to the supervisor since I would not want the facility or the management to suffer due to an employee’s indiscretion.

16. What is your biggest weakness?

I am a perfectionist. And sometimes, that does not work too well. Since I want everything to be done at the right time, and in the right way, I often have unrealistic expectations. However, I am working on it so that I can work well, but not expect perfection every single time.

17. What is your biggest strength?

I believe that my biggest strength is my ability to handle more than one task at a time – and ensure quality work every time. This has made it possible for me to multitask, and deliver excellent results.

18. Out of all the other candidates, why should we hire you?

I should be considered for this position because of my skills primarily. I am excellent at handling housekeeping tasks, such as cleaning, mopping, and sanitizing. Also, I possess knowledge of replenishing supplies in bathrooms and restrooms. Additionally, I am well-versed in providing excellent customer service, with a view to ensuring repeat business opportunities.

19. Tell me about the last time a co-worker or customer got angry with you. What happened?

About a year ago, a guest that I was servicing a room for, blamed me for the loss of his gold ring. She was very angry, as she suspected that I had stolen it. She asked me to hand it over. After half an hour of me denying it and her blaming me, her daughter came and said she had left it in the bathroom. The guest was nice enough to apologize.

20. Why do you want to leave your current job?

I love my current workplace, but I feel that my work is not as challenging as I would want it to be.

21. Do you like working in a team?

I love teamwork. I believe that it is very important to work with other people, as you can get the job done quickly, and you learn from teammates too.

22. What is the importance of attention to detail in housekeeping?

In fact, attention to detail is extremely important in housekeeping. Every corner needs to be cleaned. And every little thing needs to be seen and worked with a toothcomb. You cannot just work fleetingly.

23. Are communication and customer service skills important for a housekeeper?

Both communication and customer service skills are extremely important when working as a housekeeper. This is because one needs to be able to take and follow instructions effectively. And ensuring repeat business due to customer satisfaction is imperative.

24. Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

I am working hard to polish my leadership skills. Within the next 5 years, I hope to work in a supervisory capacity in your company.
OR
Presently, I am learning about the work of a housekeeper. In the near future, I hope to climb up the ladder to the position of housekeeping manager in your company.

See also: How to prepare for a housekeeper interview?

Search for: