Joe's Crab Shack Server Interview Questions & Reviews

Interview Details – I went in to the Human Resources building of the Kemah Boardwalk, and filled out an application. The application included all of the basics like your work history, hours available, and that sort of thing, as well as the establishments within the boardwalk you would like to work at. Once I turned it in, I was told that Joe's was interviewing at that very moment and to head on over.
The manager saw me right away and sat down with me at a booth and interviewed me for a total of 5 minutes before "hiring" me on the spot for orientation, which is where most people actually get weeded out. Orientation lasts for 2 weeks and consists of learning the very intricate menu to a T, how the food is prepared, specials, how to sell Landry's cards, uniform etiquette, what is in all of the alcoholic beverages as well as how they are made, the separate Happy Hour menu, how the tables should be set up, as well as memorizing where all of the 111 tables are. There were bi-daily tests that you were given one chance to re-take if you had failed before you were fired. Then there was the big test over everything, which you were also given two opportunities to pass. If you passed, you got the job.

Negotiation Details – Non-negotiable.

Interview Details – I submitted an application online. I called later that day to ask if they were hiring and the hostest told me to apply online then call and ask a manager to review my app. I called back later in the day and asked if someone reviewed my application. The manager said he normally doesnt review them until later in the day but since I called, he did it on the phone. He asked me if I could come in for an interview the following day. I met with the assistant general manager. He reviewed my app with me and asked normal questions. He asked me "what do you bring to the table?" or "why should i hire you?" He then asked if I could come back to speak with the GM.

Negotiation Details – No cell phones while at work. Smoke free facility. Must dance on command. Two shirts are given to you. Must wear jeans and nonslip shoes.

Interview Details – I applied online then followed up by bringing a copy of my cover letter and resume to the restaurant. The general manager called me a few days later and conducted a phone interview. I was offered a 1 : 1 interview with the assistant manager. It went well, so they scheduled a 1 : 1 interview with the general manager. That also went well, and I was offered a job on the spot. Neither interview was difficult - everybody I spoke to was friendly and welcoming, and anybody with customer service or retail experience would be able to answer the questions asked easily enough. The entire process took approximately a week from start to finish.

Negotiation Details – I had no prior serving experience, was grateful that they were willing to give me a chance, and did not attempt to negotiate. I expect the majority of my income to come from tips, so hourly wages are of little consequence.