Can you give an example of a time when you provided exceptional customer service?

Sample answer to the question

Sure! One example of a time when I provided exceptional customer service was during a wedding reception I worked at as a Banquet Server. There was a table of elderly guests who needed extra assistance. I noticed that they were struggling with their silverware and had difficulty cutting their food. So, I discreetly approached them and offered to cut their food into smaller, more manageable bites. They were extremely grateful for the extra help and it made their dining experience more enjoyable. Additionally, throughout the event, I made sure to check on the guests regularly, anticipating their needs and addressing any concerns they had. Overall, I received positive feedback from the guests and the event organizers for my exceptional customer service.

A more solid answer

Certainly! Let me share an example of a time when I went above and beyond to provide exceptional customer service as a Banquet Server. During a high-profile corporate event, one of the guests had a severe allergy to peanuts. As part of my attention to detail, I made sure to inform the kitchen staff about the allergy to ensure that the guest's meal was prepared with utmost care. I also took the initiative to personally check with the guest about any specific dietary requirements and preferences to ensure their complete satisfaction. Throughout the event, I continuously monitored the guest's table, refilling their drinks promptly and ensuring they had everything they needed. The event organizer praised my ability to anticipate the guest's needs and appreciated the extra effort I put into providing exceptional service.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides more specific details about the actions taken by the candidate to provide exceptional customer service. It also highlights the impact of the candidate's actions and the positive feedback received. However, it could still be further improved by adding more information about the candidate's ability to work as part of a team.

An exceptional answer

Absolutely! Let me share with you an exceptional example of when my commitment to exceptional customer service as a Banquet Server truly shined. I was working at a charity gala attended by high-profile individuals. During the event, a guest accidentally spilled red wine on their expensive designer gown. As soon as I noticed the mishap, I swiftly approached the guest with confidence and poise. I immediately offered to take the gown to the nearby dry cleaner we had an established partnership with, assuring the guest that we would take full responsibility for the cleaning and any associated costs. While the guest was understandably upset, my empathetic and proactive approach helped alleviate their stress. I promptly arranged for the gown to be delivered back to them the following day, perfectly cleaned and pressed. The guest was extremely grateful for our exceptional service and wrote a personal note expressing their appreciation. The event organizer commended my ability to handle a difficult situation with professionalism and provide a seamless experience for all guests.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer goes above and beyond in providing a specific and detailed example of when the candidate provided exceptional customer service. It demonstrates the candidate's ability to handle a difficult situation and provides concrete evidence of the impact of their actions. It also highlights the positive feedback received from both the guest and the event organizer.

How to prepare for this question

Familiarize yourself with the job description and the specific customer service skills required for the role of a Banquet Server.
Reflect on your past experiences in the hospitality industry or in roles that required customer service.
Identify specific examples where you went above and beyond to provide exceptional customer service.
Think about the impact of your actions and the positive feedback you received from customers or supervisors.
Practice storytelling and articulating your examples clearly and concisely.
Highlight the importance of teamwork and collaboration in providing exceptional customer service.

What interviewers are evaluating

Customer service orientation
Attention to detail
Ability to work as part of a team