Working as a Customer Service Assistant at Costa Coffee is more than just serving drinks – it’s about delivering memorable customer experiences. Costa Coffee is one of the UK’s most loved coffee chains, and their front-of-house staff play a crucial role in building brand loyalty. From making high-quality beverages to maintaining store cleanliness and interacting with customers, your daily responsibilities will combine service, speed, and personality.
Typical duties include taking customer orders, preparing drinks and food, operating tills, cleaning, and stocking up supplies – all while maintaining a friendly and helpful attitude. A strong work ethic, reliability, and a love for teamwork are must-haves in this role.
As of 2025, the average hourly pay for a Costa Coffee Customer Service Assistant in the UK ranges from £9.50 to £11.50, depending on experience and location. With opportunities for growth, training, and even barista certification, it’s a fantastic starting point for anyone looking to grow in the hospitality industry.
Top 20 Interview Questions and Answers for Costa Coffee Customer Service Assistant Role
1. Tell me about yourself.
“I’m a people-oriented individual with a strong background in customer service. I enjoy fast-paced environments and love contributing to a positive team atmosphere. I’m passionate about coffee and customer care, which makes Costa the perfect fit.”
2. Why do you want to work at Costa Coffee?
“I admire Costa’s dedication to quality and sustainability. I also appreciate how the company values its staff and promotes from within. Being part of a respected brand and helping customers have a great experience excites me.”
3. How would you handle a difficult customer?
“I’d stay calm, listen actively, and empathize with their concern. I’d do my best to resolve the issue within policy and, if needed, involve a supervisor to ensure a satisfactory outcome.”
4. What do you know about Costa Coffee?
“Costa Coffee is the UK’s largest coffeehouse chain, known for its handcrafted drinks and focus on ethical sourcing. It was founded in 1971 and is now owned by The Coca-Cola Company.”
5. Describe great customer service.
“It’s about exceeding expectations – being friendly, efficient, attentive, and solving problems quickly. It’s also about creating a welcoming atmosphere that encourages repeat visits.”
6. How do you prioritize tasks during a busy shift?
“I stay focused and organized, assess the most urgent needs, communicate with my team, and make sure that customers are always served promptly, even when multitasking.”
7. Are you comfortable working early mornings, weekends, or holidays?
“Yes, I understand that flexibility is key in hospitality, and I’m happy to work varied shifts, including early mornings and weekends.”
8. How would you deal with a customer complaint about their drink?
“I’d apologize sincerely, offer to remake the drink, and ensure it meets their expectations. Keeping the customer happy is my top priority.”
9. Can you describe a time you worked as part of a team?
“In my previous role, we had to coordinate during a busy weekend shift. I supported colleagues, communicated clearly, and helped reduce wait times by anticipating customer needs.”
10. What would you do if you noticed a colleague not following hygiene standards?
“I’d politely remind them of the correct procedure and report it to a manager if necessary. Maintaining hygiene is critical in food service.”
11. How do you stay motivated during repetitive tasks?
“I set small personal goals, find ways to improve my speed or technique, and remind myself that even small tasks contribute to customer satisfaction.”
12. What skills do you bring to this role?
“Excellent communication, strong attention to detail, multitasking, and a proactive attitude. I also have a genuine interest in coffee and enjoy learning new skills.”
13. How would you handle long queues during busy hours?
“I’d stay calm, work efficiently, keep the energy positive, and acknowledge waiting customers to show that we’re doing our best to serve everyone quickly.”
14. What would you do if you made a mistake on a customer’s order?
“I’d apologize and correct the mistake immediately, ensuring the customer receives the correct order with a smile.”
15. How would you upsell a product to a customer?
“I’d suggest popular pairings, like offering a pastry with their coffee, and highlight promotions or limited-time offers without being pushy.”
16. Are you comfortable working under pressure?
“Yes. I actually thrive in busy environments. It helps me stay alert and focused, and I enjoy the satisfaction of getting through a rush with my team.”
17. What does teamwork mean to you?
“It means supporting one another, communicating clearly, sharing responsibilities, and helping the team reach shared goals, especially during peak times.”
18. How would you respond to a customer who doesn’t know what to order?
“I’d ask about their preferences and offer popular or seasonal recommendations, making them feel comfortable and welcome.”
19. Have you ever gone the extra mile for a customer?
“In a past role, I once noticed a regular customer was upset. I took the time to chat, remembered their usual order, and added a small freebie – they left smiling and thanked me personally.”
20. Where do you see yourself in 2–3 years?
“I hope to grow within Costa, maybe becoming a trained barista or supervisor. I’m excited about the opportunities for progression and learning.”
Final Interview Tips and Encouragement
Walking into a Costa Coffee interview prepared is half the battle. Show your enthusiasm for the brand, speak clearly, and let your personality shine. Interviewers look for team players with a can-do attitude and great energy. Practice common questions, research the company, and wear a smile – it goes a long way.
Remember: be yourself, be honest, and stay positive. Every answer is a chance to show how you’ll enhance the Costa team. Good luck!
