Working as a housekeeper at Soho House is more than just a cleaning role — it’s about maintaining the high standards and luxury experience the brand is renowned for. Housekeepers ensure every guest’s stay is flawless by keeping rooms immaculate, managing linen, and providing discreet, professional service. The role typically offers a competitive salary starting around £20,000 to £25,000 annually, with benefits reflecting Soho House’s premium hospitality environment. Excelling in this position demands attention to detail, reliability, and excellent customer service skills.
Preparing well for your Soho House Housekeeper interview is key to standing out. Below are 25 fully explained interview questions and answers designed to help you confidently navigate the selection process. These questions cover opening, competency-based, situational, and closing sections, while incorporating the STAR model to frame your responses effectively. Remember, preparation combined with expert interview coaching can dramatically improve your chances of success.
1. Tell me about yourself.
This common opener allows you to briefly outline your background, experience in housekeeping, and passion for hospitality. Keep it relevant and focused on what makes you a great fit for Soho House.
Example answer:
“I have over 3 years of experience in luxury hotel housekeeping, where I learned to maintain impeccable standards while respecting guests’ privacy. I’m detail-oriented, punctual, and thrive in fast-paced environments, which I believe aligns perfectly with Soho House’s values.”
2. Why do you want to work at Soho House?
Show your knowledge of the company and enthusiasm for the role.
Example answer:
“I admire Soho House’s reputation for delivering exclusive and personalised guest experiences. I want to contribute my skills to a brand that values both luxury and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.”
3. How do you prioritise your cleaning tasks during a busy shift?
Demonstrate time management and organisational skills.
Example answer:
“I prioritise by focusing first on rooms with arriving guests and high-traffic areas, then tackle detailed cleaning tasks. I keep a checklist to ensure nothing is missed and always communicate with my team for smooth coordination.”
4. Tell me about a time you handled a difficult guest.
Use the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, Result.
Example answer:
“At my previous hotel, a guest was unhappy about their room’s cleanliness (Situation). I took responsibility immediately (Task), personally re-cleaned the room and offered an apology (Action). The guest was satisfied and later complimented our service (Result).”
5. What does excellent housekeeping mean to you?
Focus on quality, attention to detail, and guest satisfaction.
Example answer:
“Excellent housekeeping means creating a spotless, comfortable environment where guests feel valued. It’s about consistency, respect for privacy, and anticipating guest needs.”
6. How do you ensure you maintain health and safety standards?
Highlight your knowledge of hygiene protocols and safe handling of cleaning chemicals.
Example answer:
“I strictly follow the health and safety guidelines, use protective gear, and ensure chemicals are correctly labelled and stored. I’m also vigilant about reporting hazards.”
7. Describe a situation where you worked effectively in a team.
Show your collaboration skills.
Example answer:
“During a large event, our housekeeping team divided tasks to prepare all rooms on time (Situation). I volunteered to handle the most challenging rooms (Task), communicated progress regularly, and supported colleagues when needed (Action). The event ran smoothly, and guest feedback was positive (Result).”
8. How do you manage repetitive or mundane tasks?
Demonstrate your motivation and commitment.
Example answer:
“I remind myself that every task, no matter how routine, contributes to the guest’s experience. Staying focused and taking pride in my work helps me maintain high standards.”
9. What experience do you have using cleaning equipment and chemicals?
Be specific about your practical skills.
Example answer:
“I’m trained in using various cleaning machines, like carpet cleaners and floor polishers, and knowledgeable about appropriate chemical use to ensure safety and effectiveness.”
10. How do you handle confidential information or guest privacy?
Stress your professionalism and discretion.
Example answer:
“I always respect guest privacy by not discussing any personal information and handling room access discreetly.”
11. What motivates you in this role?
Show passion and alignment with the job’s demands.
Example answer:
“Knowing that my work directly enhances guests’ comfort and satisfaction motivates me daily.”
12. Tell me about a time you improved a process at work.
STAR example again.
Example answer:
“I noticed cleaning schedules were causing overlaps and delays (Situation). I suggested a staggered timetable (Task), helped implement it (Action), and we saw a 15% improvement in efficiency (Result).”
13. How do you deal with feedback or criticism?
Show openness and growth mindset.
Example answer:
“I view feedback as an opportunity to improve. I listen carefully, ask questions if needed, and take action to enhance my performance.”
14. What qualities make a great housekeeper?
Reflect key skills.
Example answer:
“Attention to detail, reliability, discretion, and excellent communication skills.”
15. How do you stay organised during your shift?
Demonstrate planning skills.
Example answer:
“I use a checklist and prioritise tasks based on guest needs and management instructions.”
16. Describe a time you went above and beyond for a guest.
STAR example.
Example answer:
“A guest requested extra pillows late at night (Situation). I personally delivered them with a smile and offered additional amenities (Task and Action), resulting in a heartfelt thank you note (Result).”
17. How do you handle stress during busy periods?
Show resilience and coping strategies.
Example answer:
“I stay calm by breaking tasks down and focusing on one thing at a time. I also communicate with my team to share the workload.”
18. Can you work flexible hours including weekends and evenings?
Be honest and positive.
Example answer:
“Yes, I understand the hospitality industry requires flexibility and am happy to adapt my schedule.”
19. What do you know about Soho House’s culture and values?
Show research and alignment.
Example answer:
“I know Soho House values creativity, inclusivity, and personalised service, creating a community feel for guests.”
20. Describe your experience with laundry and linen management.
Practical knowledge.
Example answer:
“I’m experienced in sorting, washing, and ironing linen, ensuring quality and hygiene standards.”
21. How do you handle lost property found in rooms?
Demonstrate responsibility.
Example answer:
“I follow the hotel’s lost property policy, logging the item and handing it to management promptly.”
22. What would you do if you noticed a maintenance issue in a guest room?
Show initiative and communication skills.
Example answer:
“I’d report it immediately to maintenance to ensure a swift fix and inform my supervisor.”
23. How would you deal with a conflict with a team member?
Highlight professionalism and conflict resolution.
Example answer:
“I’d try to discuss the issue calmly and privately, focusing on solutions and maintaining respect.”
24. What questions do you have for us?
Always have questions prepared to show engagement.
Example answer:
“Can you tell me more about the training provided for new housekeepers at Soho House?”
25. Why should we hire you as a housekeeper?
Summarise your strengths confidently.
Example answer:
“My dedication to quality, strong teamwork, and passion for luxury hospitality make me a great fit for Soho House.”
General Interview Coaching Encouragement and Tips
Interviews can feel daunting, but remember, they are as much about you assessing the employer as them assessing you. Practice using the STAR model to structure your answers clearly—describe the Situation, your Task, the Actions you took, and the positive Result. Keep your answers concise and focused, demonstrating both your skills and your enthusiasm for the role. Do dress smartly, arrive on time, and always maintain polite, positive body language.
Do’s:
Research Soho House thoroughly.
Practice answers out loud with a friend or coach.
Be honest and authentic.
Show eagerness to learn and adapt.
Don’ts:
Don’t speak negatively about previous employers.
Avoid rambling—stay on point.
Don’t forget to ask thoughtful questions at the end.
Remember, preparation is the key to confidence. Consider investing in professional interview training or booking an interview coaching session with an experienced interview coach to polish your skills and stand out.
