Observe interaction during team-based trial activities, communication style with current staff, and response to collaborative scenarios whilst testing willingness to support colleagues and adapt to team dynamics. Focus on natural team behaviours rather than forced interaction.
Common misunderstanding: Many hiring managers assess team integration through interview questions alone without observing actual interaction with current staff during practical trials that reveal genuine communication style, cooperation instincts, and team chemistry essential for catering success.
Common misunderstanding: Some managers focus on personality compatibility without assessing work-style integration and collaborative problem-solving that determine success in catering environments where team coordination and mutual support affect overall event quality and guest satisfaction.
Ask for examples of helping colleagues during busy periods, resolving team conflicts, and supporting collective goals whilst exploring situations requiring coordination and mutual assistance. Focus on specific behavioural examples rather than general teamwork attitudes and opinions.
Common misunderstanding: Hiring managers sometimes ask theoretical teamwork questions without probing for specific examples of colleague support, conflict resolution, and team problem-solving that demonstrate actual collaboration capability and team-focused mindset in demanding work environments.
Common misunderstanding: Some managers accept vague teamwork responses without exploring details about communication methods, support actions, and outcome results that reveal genuine team cooperation skills and willingness to prioritise collective success over individual recognition during challenging periods.
Look for initiative in team situations, willingness to guide newer staff, and natural problem-solving during group challenges whilst assessing communication confidence and supportive attitude toward colleagues. Focus on collaborative leadership rather than authoritative management styles.
Common misunderstanding: Hiring managers sometimes seek traditional leadership traits without recognising that effective catering assistant leadership involves supportive guidance, team encouragement, and collaborative problem-solving that builds team capability rather than hierarchical control or individual dominance.
Common misunderstanding: Some managers overlook quiet leadership styles whilst missing candidates who demonstrate initiative through consistent support, reliability, and positive influence that create team stability and encourage collective success in demanding catering environments requiring sustained cooperation and coordination.