Working at Stonegate Pubs offers a variety of rewarding roles that are vital to the success of each establishment. From bar staff and kitchen teams to management positions, every role contributes to creating an outstanding guest experience. Understanding the job descriptions, responsibilities, and salaries helps candidates prepare effectively. For example, a Bar Staff role typically earns around £10–£12 per hour and involves serving drinks, maintaining cleanliness, and engaging with customers. A Chef or Kitchen Staff earns approximately £11–£14 per hour and is responsible for food preparation, hygiene, and team collaboration. Meanwhile, Management roles, including Bar Managers and Assistant Managers, can earn £25,000–£35,000 per year and oversee operations, staff development, and customer satisfaction.
Preparing for a Stonegate Pubs interview requires knowing the typical questions, understanding the STAR model, and practicing your responses to make a lasting impression. This guide provides 30 fully explained interview questions and answers for differing job roles, along with tips for competency-based answers, opening and closing questions, and general interview guidance.
1. Can you tell us a little about yourself?
Answer: Keep it concise, relevant, and positive. Focus on work experience, key skills, and your passion for hospitality. Example: “I have over two years of experience in customer service within busy pubs. I enjoy creating a welcoming atmosphere and ensuring every guest has a positive experience. I’m excited about the opportunity to bring my skills to Stonegate Pubs.”
2. Why do you want to work at Stonegate Pubs?
Answer: Highlight the company culture, reputation, and career development opportunities. Example: “I admire Stonegate Pubs’ focus on delivering great experiences. I am passionate about hospitality and would love to be part of a team that values high standards and excellent customer service.”
3. Describe a time you handled a difficult customer.
Answer (STAR method):
Situation: A customer was unhappy with a delayed order.
Task: Resolve the issue while keeping the customer satisfied.
Action: Apologised, provided a complimentary drink, and ensured the order was prioritised.
Result: Customer left happy and praised the service.
4. How do you handle working under pressure?
Answer: Focus on organisational skills and staying calm. Example: “During peak times, I prioritise tasks, communicate with the team, and remain calm. This ensures efficiency without compromising service quality.”
5. What are your strengths?
Answer: Highlight skills relevant to the role. Example: “I am highly organised, attentive to detail, and work well in a team. I am also passionate about delivering excellent customer service.”
6. What are your weaknesses?
Answer: Be honest but show self-improvement. Example: “I sometimes take on too much at once, but I’m learning to delegate tasks effectively and ask for support when needed.”
7. How do you prioritise tasks during a busy shift?
Answer: Describe your approach. Example: “I list tasks in order of urgency, communicate with colleagues, and focus on the most critical tasks first while ensuring quality service.”
8. How would you deal with a conflict in the team?
Answer (STAR method):
Situation: A disagreement between colleagues during a busy night.
Task: Maintain team harmony.
Action: Mediated respectfully, listened to both sides, and proposed a solution.
Result: Team worked effectively, and the shift ran smoothly.
9. Why should we hire you?
Answer: Emphasise unique skills and enthusiasm. Example: “I bring both experience and passion for customer service. I am reliable, energetic, and ready to contribute positively to Stonegate Pubs’ team.”
10. Can you describe a time you went above and beyond for a customer?
Answer (STAR method):
Situation: Customer had dietary restrictions.
Task: Ensure safe and enjoyable dining experience.
Action: Consulted with kitchen, suggested alternatives, and provided personal attention.
Result: Customer thanked me and left a positive review.
11. What motivates you in your work?
Answer: Focus on team success and customer satisfaction. Example: “I am motivated by making guests happy and contributing to a friendly, efficient team environment.”
12. How do you ensure safety and hygiene standards are met?
Answer: Explain compliance knowledge. Example: “I follow food safety guidelines, maintain cleanliness, and complete regular checks to ensure standards are met.”
13. What do you know about Stonegate Pubs’ values?
Answer: Research is key. Example: “Stonegate values customer experience, teamwork, and staff development. I align with these values and aim to contribute positively.”
14. How do you handle feedback from a manager?
Answer: Show openness to improvement. Example: “I welcome constructive feedback and use it to improve my performance, ensuring the team and guests benefit.”
15. Describe a situation where you had to learn a new skill quickly.
Answer (STAR method):
Situation: New POS system introduced.
Task: Learn quickly to avoid delays.
Action: Practiced, asked questions, and reviewed procedures.
Result: Became proficient, helped colleagues, and maintained smooth service.
16. How do you maintain energy during long shifts?
Answer: Emphasise practical strategies. Example: “I stay hydrated, take short breaks when possible, and maintain a positive mindset to keep energy high.”
17. Can you work flexible hours, including weekends?
Answer: Be honest. Example: “Yes, I am happy to work flexible hours, including evenings and weekends, to meet the needs of the pub.”
18. How do you deal with repetitive tasks?
Answer: Show professionalism. Example: “I focus on consistency, efficiency, and maintaining quality, even during routine tasks.”
19. Tell me about a time you worked effectively as part of a team.
Answer (STAR method):
Situation: Busy Friday evening.
Task: Coordinate with team for smooth service.
Action: Communicated clearly, supported colleagues, and shared responsibilities.
Result: Shift completed without issues, customers satisfied.
20. What experience do you have handling cash or card payments?
Answer: Provide relevant experience. Example: “I have experience handling cash, processing card payments, and balancing the till at the end of each shift accurately.”
21. How do you approach upselling drinks or specials?
Answer: Focus on customer experience. Example: “I suggest products naturally, highlighting benefits or specials, while ensuring the customer feels comfortable and informed.”
22. What are your career goals?
Answer: Align with company growth. Example: “I aim to develop within the hospitality industry, taking on additional responsibilities and contributing to the pub’s success.”
23. Can you handle stressful situations without losing professionalism?
Answer: Give a real example. Example: “During busy nights, I stay calm, communicate clearly, and focus on solutions rather than problems.”
24. How would you deal with an intoxicated customer?
Answer: Demonstrate safety awareness. Example: “I would remain calm, follow company guidelines, and involve management if necessary to ensure safety.”
25. How do you stay organised in a fast-paced environment?
Answer: Highlight personal techniques. Example: “I make lists, prioritise tasks, and communicate with my team to stay organised and efficient.”
26. Tell me about a mistake you made and how you corrected it.
Answer (STAR method):
Situation: Misplaced an order during a busy shift.
Task: Correct quickly.
Action: Apologised, rectified the mistake, and informed the customer.
Result: Customer satisfied and learned to double-check orders.
27. Do you prefer working independently or in a team?
Answer: Be flexible. Example: “I enjoy both. I am confident working independently but also thrive in collaborative team environments.”
28. Do you have any questions for us?
Answer: Always ask. Example: “Can you tell me about opportunities for career growth within Stonegate Pubs?”
29. How do you handle receiving criticism from a colleague?
Answer: Show professionalism. Example: “I listen respectfully, evaluate the feedback, and use it to improve my work and support the team.”
30. Why is excellent customer service important in a pub environment?
Answer: Demonstrate understanding of role. Example: “Customer service is key to repeat business, positive reviews, and a welcoming atmosphere. It impacts the pub’s success directly.”
General Interview Coaching Tips:
Prepare using the STAR method – Situation, Task, Action, Result. It helps answer competency questions clearly.
Research the company – Know Stonegate Pubs’ values, culture, and menu.
Dress appropriately – Even for casual roles, professional appearance matters.
Listen carefully and answer clearly – Pause to think, and avoid rambling.
Ask questions – Shows interest and engagement.
Do’s and Don’ts:
Do: Smile, make eye contact, show enthusiasm.
Don’t: Speak negatively about past employers or exaggerate experience.
Practice common questions – Rehearse with a friend or interview coach.
Preparing for a Stonegate Pubs interview is easier with structured job interview preparation. Booking interview training or a session with an experienced interview coach can boost confidence. Learn techniques through interview coaching online to refine your responses and handle tricky questions smoothly.
Investing in interview coaching ensures you stand out, feel confident, and maximise your chances of landing the role you want. Take the next step and schedule a session to benefit from 25 years of UK-based career coaching expertise.
