Present realistic event challenges like equipment failures, staff shortages, or guest complaints whilst observing analytical thinking, resource utilisation, and team consultation approach during problem resolution. Focus on practical problem-solving within catering contexts rather than theoretical scenarios.
Common misunderstanding: Abstract scenarios reveal catering problem-solving
Many hiring managers test problem-solving through abstract scenarios without connection to actual catering challenges like event coordination, team support, and guest service. Catering roles require specific analytical approaches and resource awareness for realistic assessment.
Let's say you are presenting hypothetical business scenarios when catering assistants need practical problem-solving skills for equipment failures, guest complaints, or service coordination challenges. Abstract testing doesn't reveal actual catering competency.
Common misunderstanding: Catering assistants should solve problems independently
Some managers expect perfect problem-solving without recognising that effective catering assistant thinking involves seeking guidance appropriately, collaborating with colleagues, and learning from challenges. Support roles require teamwork rather than independent crisis management.
Let's say you are expecting candidates to solve complex problems alone when successful catering assistants know when to consult supervisors, collaborate with colleagues, and follow established protocols during challenging situations.
Use time-sensitive situations requiring quick choices about guest service, team support, or event coordination whilst testing ability to prioritise tasks and make decisions whilst maintaining service standards. Focus on realistic catering dilemmas with multiple valid approaches.
Common misunderstanding: Unrealistic scenarios test decision-making effectively
Hiring managers sometimes present unrealistic scenarios without connection to actual catering assistant decision-making challenges like balancing guest requests with team needs and prioritising competing tasks. Assessment needs realistic catering situations requiring practical choices.
Let's say you are testing decision-making with complex business scenarios when catering assistants face practical choices about guest service timing, team support priorities, or equipment allocation during busy events.
Common misunderstanding: Individual decision-making predicts team performance
Some managers test decision-making in isolation without assessing ability to communicate choices, seek input appropriately, and adapt decisions based on feedback. Catering success requires collaborative decision-making and team coordination.
Let's say you are evaluating candidates only on independent choices without testing their communication about decisions, willingness to seek guidance, or ability to adapt based on supervisor or colleague input.
Test response to multiple simultaneous challenges, communication during emergencies, and ability to maintain composure whilst supporting team coordination and guest satisfaction during difficult situations. Focus on support role rather than crisis leadership expectations.
Common misunderstanding: Catering assistants manage crises independently
Hiring managers sometimes test crisis management as individual responsibility without recognising that catering assistant crisis response involves supporting team efforts, following protocols, and maintaining service standards. Support roles don't require independent emergency leadership.
Let's say you are expecting candidates to take charge during emergencies when catering assistants should support supervisors, follow established protocols, and maintain service whilst team leaders handle crisis coordination.
Common misunderstanding: Advanced crisis skills are necessary for assistant roles
Some managers expect advanced crisis management skills without focusing on essential catering assistant capabilities like staying calm, following instructions, and communicating clearly. Support roles require cooperation rather than advanced emergency management.
Let's say you are testing complex crisis leadership when catering assistants need practical skills like remaining composed, following directions clearly, and supporting team coordination during challenging but manageable service situations.