Subway is one of the most recognisable fast-food brands in the world, known for its fresh sandwiches and commitment to customer satisfaction. Each role within a Subway restaurant plays a critical part in ensuring smooth operations and providing a positive customer experience. From Team Members to Shift Supervisors and Store Managers, understanding the responsibilities and compensation of each position is essential before attending an interview.
Team Member: As a Team Member, your role involves preparing sandwiches, taking orders, maintaining cleanliness, and delivering excellent customer service. Salaries typically start around £19,000 annually in the UK, with opportunities for advancement based on performance.
Shift Supervisor: Shift Supervisors oversee daily operations, manage staff, handle cash, and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations. The average UK salary for this role is approximately £23,000 per year.
Store Manager: Store Managers are responsible for the overall performance of the restaurant, including staff management, inventory control, budgeting, and sales targets. Salaries for this role can range from £30,000 to £38,000 annually.
Now that we understand the importance of each role, let’s dive into 30 interview questions and answers that will help you succeed.
Opening Questions and Answers
1. Tell me about yourself. Answer: “I am a motivated individual with a passion for providing excellent customer service. I enjoy working in fast-paced environments and am eager to contribute to Subway’s team-oriented culture. My previous experience in food service has equipped me with skills in teamwork, attention to detail, and time management.”
2. Why do you want to work at Subway? Answer: “I admire Subway’s commitment to fresh, high-quality food and outstanding customer service. I am excited about the opportunity to develop my skills in a supportive environment and contribute to a team that values professionalism and growth.”
3. What do you know about Subway? Answer: “Subway is a globally recognised fast-food chain that specialises in made-to-order sandwiches, salads, and wraps. The company prioritises healthy options, customer satisfaction, and employee development, which makes it an ideal workplace for growth.”
4. What are your strengths? Answer: “I am highly organised, communicate effectively with customers and colleagues, and thrive in fast-paced environments. My strengths also include problem-solving and maintaining a positive attitude under pressure.”
5. What are your weaknesses? Answer: “I sometimes focus too much on perfecting my work, but I have been learning to balance quality with efficiency. I take feedback positively and always aim to improve my skills.”
Competency Questions and Answers (Using the STAR Model)
6. Describe a time you dealt with a difficult customer. Answer: “Situation: A customer was unhappy with their order. Task: I needed to resolve the issue promptly. Action: I listened carefully, apologised, and offered a replacement sandwich immediately. Result: The customer left satisfied and praised my professionalism.”
7. Tell me about a time you worked successfully in a team. Answer: “Situation: During a busy lunch shift, our team had to manage multiple orders simultaneously. Task: I coordinated with colleagues to streamline preparation and ensure timely service. Action: I communicated clearly and assisted where needed. Result: We served all customers efficiently, maintaining high satisfaction.”
8. Give an example of when you showed initiative. Answer: “Situation: I noticed stock levels were running low during peak hours. Task: I needed to prevent delays in service. Action: I informed the supervisor and helped restock items proactively. Result: Service ran smoothly, and my initiative was acknowledged.”
9. Describe a time you managed multiple tasks. Answer: “Situation: During a busy shift, I had to prepare orders, restock supplies, and assist customers. Task: My responsibility was to maintain efficiency without compromising quality. Action: I prioritised tasks and communicated with my team. Result: All orders were completed on time, and customers were happy.”
10. Tell me about a time you resolved a conflict at work. Answer: “Situation: Two team members disagreed on task assignments. Task: I needed to mediate and maintain harmony. Action: I listened to both sides and suggested a fair solution. Result: The conflict was resolved amicably, and teamwork improved.”
Role-Specific Questions and Answers
Team Member Role
11. How do you handle stress during busy periods? Answer: “I stay organised, focus on one task at a time, and communicate with my team to manage workload effectively. This ensures I provide consistent service even during peak times.”
12. How do you ensure food safety and hygiene? Answer: “I follow Subway’s hygiene protocols, including handwashing, wearing gloves, and regularly sanitising surfaces. I also monitor food storage and preparation procedures to maintain safety standards.”
13. How do you handle complaints about incorrect orders? Answer: “I listen attentively, apologise sincerely, and offer to correct the order immediately. I then communicate the issue to the supervisor to prevent recurrence.”
14. Describe your experience with cash handling. Answer: “I have experience accurately handling cash, processing card payments, and reconciling the till at the end of shifts. Attention to detail is crucial in this role.”
15. How do you ensure customer satisfaction? Answer: “I greet customers warmly, take orders carefully, provide accurate information, and maintain a clean environment. Ensuring every customer leaves happy is my priority.”
Shift Supervisor Role
16. How do you motivate your team? Answer: “I lead by example, provide constructive feedback, recognise achievements, and create a positive work environment. Motivation increases when team members feel valued.”
17. How do you handle underperforming staff? Answer: “I address issues promptly through private discussions, set clear expectations, and provide support for improvement. Continuous monitoring ensures progress.”
18. How do you manage inventory and stock levels? Answer: “I regularly check inventory, forecast demand, and ensure timely ordering to prevent shortages. Accurate record-keeping helps maintain smooth operations.”
19. Give an example of how you improved a process. Answer: “I noticed delays in sandwich preparation during peak hours. I reorganised the workflow and delegated tasks more efficiently. As a result, service speed improved by 20%.”
20. How do you ensure compliance with health and safety standards? Answer: “I regularly review procedures, train staff on protocols, and conduct spot checks to ensure everyone adheres to guidelines. Safety is a top priority.”
Store Manager Role
21. How do you manage sales targets? Answer: “I analyse past performance, set realistic goals, and implement strategies such as promotions and staff training to achieve targets. Regular monitoring ensures targets are met.”
22. How do you handle employee turnover? Answer: “I maintain open communication, provide opportunities for growth, and conduct exit interviews to understand reasons for leaving. This helps improve retention.”
23. How do you develop your team? Answer: “I identify individual strengths and weaknesses, provide training, and encourage continuous learning. Team development ensures operational excellence.”
24. How do you manage a challenging work environment? Answer: “I stay calm, communicate effectively, and implement structured plans to address challenges. Maintaining a positive atmosphere is essential for team morale.”
25. Describe a successful project you managed. Answer: “I implemented a new inventory tracking system, trained staff, and monitored performance. The project reduced waste by 15% and improved efficiency.”
Ending Questions and Answers
26. Do you have any questions for us? Answer: “Yes, I would love to know more about opportunities for career progression and how the team supports each other during busy periods.”
27. Why should we hire you? Answer: “I bring a strong work ethic, customer service expertise, and a positive attitude. I am committed to contributing to Subway’s success and fostering a supportive team environment.”
28. Where do you see yourself in five years? Answer: “I aim to grow within Subway, taking on increased responsibilities and contributing to the success of the team. I am eager to learn and develop professionally.”
29. What are your salary expectations? Answer: “I am flexible and open to discussing a salary that reflects my experience, skills, and the responsibilities of the role. My focus is on contributing effectively to the team.”
30. How soon can you start? Answer: “I am available to start immediately and am committed to a smooth transition into the team. I am eager to contribute to Subway’s ongoing success.”
General Interview Coaching Encouragement and Tips
Preparing for a Subway interview requires understanding the role, anticipating common questions, and practising your answers using the STAR model for competency-based questions. Always research the company, dress appropriately, and arrive on time. Maintain a positive attitude, communicate clearly, and show enthusiasm for the role. Remember to listen attentively, provide specific examples, and ask thoughtful questions at the end of the interview.
Do’s and Don’ts:
To maximise your chances of success, consider investing in professional support. Booking an interview coaching session can provide personalised guidance, practice scenarios, and confidence-building techniques. Whether through interview coaching online or one-on-one sessions with an experienced interview coach, your preparation will be thorough and effective.
