Work sample test and structured interview for {role_name}

After shortlisting, assess candidates' skills with a work sample task, followed by an assessment and thorough evaluation.

How to structure the interview to assess skills and cultural fit for {role_name}

Work sample test (Home assignment)

Recruitment Bullet

Assess the candidate’s practical skills by assigning a real-world task similar to the work they would do if hired.

  • Title: Create a Signature Dish
  • Objective: To assess the candidate's culinary creativity, technical skills, and presentation abilities.
  • Requirements:
    • Develop a recipe for a new signature dish.
    • Prepare the dish, taking care to demonstrate advanced culinary techniques.
    • Present the dish as it would be served in the restaurant.
    • Submit a written recipe, including ingredients, preparation steps, and a brief description of the inspiration behind the dish.
  • Time Frame: 3 days to develop, prepare, and present the dish.

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Questions based on home assignment : 

Recruitment Bullet

Once done with work sample test evaluate the candidate’s technical proficiency based on the work sample task.

Technical questions

Recruitment Bullet

Duration : 10 minutes/question

Type of Question Duration Sample Question Expected Answer
Question 1 10 minutes Describe the steps you took to prepare your signature dish. What techniques did you use? Detailed description of preparation steps, including specific culinary techniques like sous-vide, braising, or flambé.
Question 2 10 minutes How did you ensure the dish met high standards of presentation? Explanation of plating techniques, use of garnishes, and attention to detail.
Question 3 10 minutes What challenges did you encounter during the preparation of your dish, and how did you overcome them? Identification of specific challenges and solutions demonstrating problem-solving skills.

Behavioral questions

Recruitment Bullet

Duration : 10 minutes/question

Type of Question Duration Sample Question Expected Answer
Question 1 10 minutes Can you describe a time when you had to work under pressure in the kitchen? How did you handle it? Demonstration of ability to remain calm, prioritize tasks, and maintain quality under pressure.
Question 2 10 minutes How do you handle feedback and criticism about your dishes? Openness to feedback, willingness to learn, and ability to implement constructive criticism.
Question 3 10 minutes Describe a situation where you had to collaborate with other kitchen staff to achieve a common goal. Teamwork, communication, and collaboration skills.

How to evaluate and compare candidates after interviews?

After interviews, it's important to evaluate and compare candidates based on a set of predefined criteria.Use scorecard to evaluate each candidate.

Recruitment Bullet

Sample scorecard based on pre-defined criteria. Here’s an example:

Criteria Sample Question Rating (1-5) Comments
Preparing Dish Describe the steps you took to prepare your signature dish.
Presentation Skills How did you ensure the dish met high standards of presentation?
Problem-Solving What challenges did you encounter and how did you overcome them?
Stress Management Describe a time when you worked under pressure in the kitchen.
Feedback Handling How do you handle feedback and criticism about your dishes?
Teamwork and Communication Describe a situation where you collaborated with other kitchen staff.
Creativity Demonstrate creativity in dish development and presentation.

What criteria should be used to make the final hiring decision?

Final decisions should be based on the candidate's overall evaluation score, with a focus on important qualifications. Prioritize technical skills above everything else for a {role_name}, but do not forget about communication and cultural fit.

Recruitment Bullet

How to communicate the decision to candidates

Sample offer letter for {role_name}

[Your Company Letterhead]

[Date]

[Candidate’s Name]
[Candidate’s Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear [Candidate’s Name],

We are pleased to offer you the position of Chef at [Your Company Name]. Your experience and culinary skills impressed us, and we believe you will be a valuable addition to our team.

Position: Chef
Start Date: [Start Date]
Salary: [Salary] per [hour/year], payable [bi-weekly/monthly]
Benefits: [List of Benefits]

Please review the attached employment agreement and return a signed copy by [Response Deadline].

We look forward to welcoming you to our team.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Contact Information]
[Company Name]

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Sample rejection letter for {role_name}

[Your Company Letterhead]

[Date]

[Candidate’s Name]
[Candidate’s Address]
[City, State, ZIP Code]

Dear [Candidate’s Name],

Thank you for your interest in the Chef position at [Your Company Name] and for taking the time to meet with us. After careful consideration, we regret to inform you that we have decided to move forward with another candidate.

We were impressed with your culinary skills and experience, and this decision was not easy. We encourage you to apply for future openings that match your skills and interests.

Thank you again for considering [Your Company Name]. We wish you all the best in your career.

Sincerely,

[Your Name]
[Your Title]
[Your Contact Information]
[Company Name]

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Hiring guide

About {role_name}

Job description

Source and shortlist candidates

Structured interview

Progression and salary