25 Firehouse Subs Interview Questions (And Hearty Answers)
Are you nervous about your upcoming interview at Firehouse Subs? Of course you are – this could be your dream job and a pivotal moment in your career. As you prepare, take a deep breath and know that being well-prepared will boost your confidence and help you ace this interview.
In this blog post, we have compiled a list of the most frequently asked interview questions at Firehouse Subs, along with example answers to guide your thinking. Consider this your insider peek behind the scenes of the interview process. By familiarizing yourself with these questions and crafting your own personalized answers ahead of time, you will walk into that interview feeling poised, polished, and ready to show Firehouse Subs why you are the perfect fit for their team.
Interviews can be anxiety-inducing, but see this as an opportunity rather than an ordeal. You have so much amazing experience and talent to offer, so believe in yourself and let your light shine through. With preparation and practice, you will be having an engaging conversation about the role and company, not just answering questions.
Does this resonate with you? Are you feeling motivated and empowered? Excellent, then you are in the right mindset to prepare. Now, take a look at the most commonly asked interview questions at Firehouse Subs and the suggested answers to help get you started. You’ve got the opportunity of a lifetime in front of you, now go make it yours!
Firehouse Subs Company Information
It is in your best interest to equip yourself with key facts about Firehouse Subs before your interview. Doing so will enable you to knowledgeably discuss the company and confidently answer any research-based questions that arise.
| Trade Name | Firehouse Subs |
| Type | Fast Casual Restaurant Chain |
| Founded | 1994 |
| Founders | Robin Sorensen, Chris Sorensen |
| Headquarters | Jacksonville, Florida, United States |
| Menu | Hot Specialty Subs, Salads, Sides, Kids’ Combos |
| Signature Items | Club on a Sub, Hook & Ladder, Firehouse Steak & Cheese, Engineer |
| Core Values | Treat People Fairly, Stay Guest Focused, Set High Standards, Work Hard & Learn, Give Back to the Community |
| Website | www.firehousesubs.com |
| Competitors | Jersey Mike’s, Jimmy John’s, Subway, Potbelly, Capriotti’s |
Additional facts:
- Anti-Subway Approach: Firehouse Subs, the second most beloved sandwich chain in America, is recognized as the “anti-Subway,” focusing on hefty sandwiches filled with meats, cheeses, and homemade sauces.
- Humble Beginnings: The founders, Chris and Robin Sorensen, started Firehouse Subs in Jacksonville, Florida, in 1994 with only $100.
- Inspiration from Disaster: The devastating Hurricane Katrina inspired the Sorensen brothers to establish the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation, which has raised $33 million to support first responders.
- Unique Artwork: Every Firehouse Subs location features a unique firefighter-themed mural, created by artist Joe Puskas, that pays tribute to the local fire department.
- Quiet Philanthropy: Besides their Public Safety Foundation, Firehouse Subs also quietly feeds first responders during the holiday season, a tradition that started in Mobile, Alabama in 2006.
- Hot Sauce Challenge: Firehouse Subs hosts a “Level 55” hot sauce challenge, where customers are invited to try all levels of their hot sauces, from 1 to 10, on their sandwiches.
- Handpicked Ingredients: The founders handpick many of the distributors for their ingredients, from Katz’s Deli for their pickles to Saddler’s Smokehouse in Texas for their smoked brisket.
- Mayonnaise Enthusiasts: The Sorensen brothers believe in the power of mayo, using it as the “glue” that holds their sandwiches together. Duke’s mayonnaise is their spread of choice.
- Home-made Hook & Ladder: You can recreate their popular Hook & Ladder sandwich at home, with smoked turkey breast, honey ham, and Monterey Jack cheese, served “fully involved.”
- Ranchers at Heart: When they’re not busy with their sandwich chain, the Sorensen brothers relax at their 9,000-acre family ranch, the Bell Cross Ranch, in Cascade, Montana.
Firehouse Subs Mission Statement
To carry on our commitment to and passion for hearty and flavorful food, heartfelt service, and public safety.
Firehouse Subs Interview Questions
Can you tell me about yourself and your background?
This common interview question is asked to get a sense of who you are and what experience you bring to the table. The Firehouse Subs interviewer wants to see that you can articulate your background, qualifications, and passion for the work.
When answering, focus on how your experience and enthusiasm will allow you to thrive in this role at Firehouse Subs. Share your story in a genuine, enthusiastic way. We know you’re more than just a resume – you’re a dynamic candidate with a passion for the restaurant industry.
To prepare, think about how to summarize your relevant work experience, education, skills, and career goals in a few concise yet compelling sentences.
“As you can see from my resume, I graduated last year with a degree in business administration. My passion for leadership and team development led me to pursue a career in restaurant management. I have over three years of experience as an shift manager at various quick service restaurants, where I have consistently delivered an amazing customer experience through coaching and developing entry-level employees. I am now hoping to take the next step in my career by joining the Firehouse Subs team as an assistant manager. I believe my enthusiasm for mentorship, track record of driving sales and customer satisfaction, and dedication to continuous improvement would allow me to hit the ground running in this role.”
Why do you want to work for Firehouse Subs?
The interviewer wants to see your eyes light up when you talk about Firehouse. Share how you connect with their mission to serve high-quality subs and support first responders. Talk about the opportunities for growth, and how you hope to build a career with them. Most of all, speak genuinely from the heart. Your passion for the brand will shine through.
“Firehouse Subs is more than just a sandwich shop to me. You guys are heroes, serving first responders who sacrifice for our communities every day. I’ve always dreamed of being part of a company that makes such a positive impact. I would love nothing more than the chance to join your team, start my career in an inspiring environment, gain valuable leadership experience, and spread Firehouse Subs’ message of hope and courage to everyone who walks through the doors.”
How would you describe great customer service? What does it mean to you?
When the interviewer asks how you define great customer service, this is your chance to show them why you’re the perfect fit for Firehouse Subs.
Picture this: you walk into your neighborhood Firehouse Subs, and an energetic team member immediately greets you with a warm welcome. They take the time to ask about your day and genuinely listen, all while crafting your sub lightning-fast. When they hand you your steaming hot sandwich, they do so with a smile and a thank you, as if you’re the reason they love their job.
That’s what great customer service means at Firehouse Subs. And to nail this question, that’s the experience you want to describe for the interviewer.
“For me, providing excellent customer service is about making a personal connection with every guest who walks through the door. It’s greeting customers with genuine enthusiasm, taking the extra moment to understand their needs, and ensuring their experience feels personalized. At Firehouse Subs, it’s serving up hot, delicious subs at warp speed, all while maintaining a fun, friendly atmosphere. Great service means going above and beyond to make people feel cared for so they keep coming back for more. If given the opportunity, that’s the level of customer experience I would strive to provide for every Firehouse Subs guest.”
Give some examples of how you have worked with others in past jobs or team environments. How did you handle any challenges?
As a candidate for Firehouse Subs, the interviewer will likely ask you about working with others in past jobs or team environments. They want to see how well you collaborate and handle challenges, since teamwork is so essential for success at Firehouse Subs.
When answering this question, be ready to provide specific examples of times you worked with colleagues to achieve a common goal. Discuss how you listened to different perspectives, compromised when needed, and ultimately created a solution that benefited everyone. The interviewer will be looking for evidence that you can thrive in Firehouse Subs’ team-oriented culture.
For instance, you might say something like:
“In one of my previous restaurant jobs, communication was constantly breaking down during our busiest times. The rush of customers and clutter of voices made it nearly impossible for us to work together efficiently. I knew something had to change, so I brought my team together after hours.
We talked through the challenges, brainstormed ideas, and ultimately created a new system for coordinating orders, table service, and kitchen demands. Within a week, our crew was collaborating like a well-oiled machine. By identifying the root problem, rallying the team, and finding an innovative solution we all believed in, we transformed the way we worked together. Moments like that are what I live for – and the results spoke for themselves!”
Where do you envision your career path leading you within the next 5 years? Do you see yourself still with Firehouse Subs?
You’re smart to prepare for this important question in your upcoming Firehouse Subs interview. The hiring manager will likely ask about your career ambitions to assess your motivation, work ethic, and potential for growth within the company.
The key to nailing this question is having a thoughtful, enthusiastic answer that shows your passion for the brand and desire for career progression.
When the interviewer asks you this question, take a moment to thoughtfully consider your response.
“Five years from now, I see myself as an integral part of the Firehouse Subs team – hopefully as an assistant manager helping to motivate crew members and provide outstanding customer experiences. I’m eager to prove myself, learn the ins and outs of the business, and work my way into a leadership role. The opportunity for career growth and advancement is really exciting to me. I’ve been a fan of Firehouse Subs for years, so being able to turn my passion for the brand into a long, rewarding career path would be an absolute dream come true.”
How do you handle stress and ensure quality and customer satisfaction during busy periods?
This is a common question in Firehouse Subs interviews, and the interviewer wants to see if you have what it takes to handle the heat during rush hour at Firehouse Subs. We’re talking lunch rush, dinner rush, and any other time hoards of hungry customers come flooding in.
We have spoken to many Firehouse Subs hiring managers, and here are some tips for answering this question: Focus on staying calm under pressure (panicking never helped anyone, right?), having a plan of action, communicating well with your team, and keeping the customer’s needs in mind. Share how you remain focused on the task at hand without compromising quality or service.
The customer comes first, no matter what. Even when you have a lobby full of people and are filling orders at record speed, each customer gets your full attention and leaves happy. Their satisfaction is non-negotiable.
Here’s an example of how to convey your ability to handle stress and prioritize quality and service:
“When things get busy, I stay calm and focused. I communicate clearly with my coworkers so we are all on the same page and we work together efficiently. No matter how long the line or how many orders are coming in, I make sure to greet each customer with a smile, maintain eye contact, and demonstrate that their satisfaction is my top priority. Staying organized and keeping a level head during stressful periods allows me to ensure quality and provide the best experience for all of our customers.”
Tell us about a time you received constructive feedback and how you responded. How did you apply the feedback to improve?
The hiring manager asks this question to determine several things. First, they want to see that you are open to receiving feedback. Second, they want to assess how you handle criticism and use it to better yourself. And finally, they want to see that you are capable of professional growth.
To answer this question successfully, be honest in your response. Share an experience where you received critical feedback, then explain how you handled it with a level head, were open to learning, and took actionable steps to improve.
For example, you might say:
“In my last job slinging subs, my manager gave me the hard truth: I came off kinda brusque with customers. Ouch. But I appreciated her feedback because I truly want to provide the best experience for all of our guests. We came up with an action plan, and I started focusing on smiling more, maintaining eye contact, and asking folks about their day in a friendly tone. Within a couple of weeks, my manager complimented me on the improvement. It showed me the value of listening to constructive criticism and using it as an opportunity to grow.”
An answer like this highlights your ability to receive feedback openly, take action, and achieve results — all qualities Firehouse Subs looks for in standout candidates.
What do you think is your biggest weakness?
So, the dreaded “weakness” question. We know, it’s not exactly anyone’s favorite part of an interview. But don’t worry, the Firehouse Subs hiring manager isn’t trying to catch you off guard – they just want to see that you’re self-aware and constantly improving.
When answering this question, be honest but also highlight the steps you’re taking to improve. We suggest conveying a weakness that is not a core part of the job requirements.
For example, you could say something like:
“My biggest weakness is that I can be too detail-oriented at times. I spend a lot of time ensuring tasks are done correctly and thoroughly which can impact the speed at which I complete assignments. However, I’ve learned to become more efficient by focusing on critical details rather than perfection. I ask clarifying questions to ensure I’m spending time on the right things. While attention to detail is important, I’m working on balancing effectiveness and efficiency.”
An answer like this shows the interviewer you have self-awareness, you’re constantly improving yourself, and your weakness will not significantly impact your ability to perform the job.
Can you tell us something interesting about you that isn’t on your resume?
As a candidate, questions like this one can seem tricky to answer.
But don’t worry, the interviewer isn’t trying to trip you up, they really just want to get to know the real you. Who you are outside the bullet points.
We suggest thinking of a story that shows off your awesome personality and values. Something that proves why you’re the perfect fit to join the Firehouse Subs team.
For example, you could say:
“Well, I’ve always been an entrepreneur at heart. As a kid, I started my own neighborhood dog walking business. I pounded the pavement, made flyers, and before I knew it, I had a waiting list of clients wanting my services! It taught me the meaning of hard work and how to keep customers coming back for more. I bring that same passion and drive to everything I do today.”
A story like this gives the interviewer a glimpse of the determined, hardworking person you are – without rehashing your resume. It highlights qualities we know Firehouse Subs looks for in their employees. Now, don’t be shy, think of an interesting story from your own life that shows what you’re all about.
We get it, this question can be intimidating. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back.
The key here is to share a story that shows you can keep your cool under pressure and turn frustrated customers into lifelong fans. The interviewer wants to see that you’re the kind of person who can charm your way out of any tricky situation with professionalism and positivity. No robotic, generic answers here – they want to get a feel for how you operate on the front lines.
Take a deep breath and think of a time you were able to seamlessly resolve a conflict and make someone’s day. Maybe a hangry customer’s sub was taking too long and you offered them a free side to ease the tension. Or an upset patron demanded to see the manager, but you were able to calmly address their concerns on the spot with a winning smile and solution.
You get the idea – now it’s your turn to share your moment of glory!
When the interviewer asks this question, look them straight in the eye and say:
“One time, a customer came in already upset that her order was taking too long. I apologized and offered her a free side or drink for the inconvenience. She refused, saying she was in a hurry. I assured her I would expedite her order. However, there was a delay in the kitchen due to a large takeout order ahead of hers. When I delivered her food, she angrily demanded to speak to the manager. I remained calm and apologized again, then offered a refund and coupon for her next visit. At first, she refused, but I insisted that we wanted her to be a happy, satisfied customer. She accepted, and I thanked her for her patience and understanding. Though the situation was difficult, I was able to resolve it by staying professional, taking responsibility, and providing solutions to remedy her experience.”
Are you able to work well with others, cooperate, and contribute to a team environment?
This question is aimed at determining if you would be a good team player and cultural fit within the Firehouse Subs organization. The interviewer wants to ensure you can cooperate with your coworkers and contribute to a positive work environment.
To ace this question, we recommend emphasizing your ability to work with different types of people, your conflict resolution skills, and your desire to help others.
With the right mindset and preparation, you’ll be ready to share an answer that resonates with the interviewer.
“Absolutely. Teamwork is my jam. I enjoy collaborating with coworkers and believe teamwork is crucial to accomplishing goals. In my previous role, I had to work closely with colleagues from various socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds to achieve our restaurant goals. We didn’t always see eye to eye, but through open communication and compromise, we were able to resolve any issues and have a very successful working relationship. I aim to contribute by sharing my ideas, listening to others, and ensuring all team members feel heard and valued. When we create an environment where everyone feels motivated and has each other’s backs, there’s no limit to what we can achieve together.”
Show them you’re someone who builds others up and brings people together. Share how you navigate disagreements in a constructive way. Highlight how you go above and beyond to create a positive team spirit. Your answer should demonstrate the kind of coworker you’ll be – the one who will cooperate, contribute, and help Firehouse Subs succeed as a team.
What are some of your hobbies and interests outside of work?
When the interviewer asks about your hobbies and interests outside of work, they want to get to know you better as a whole person. Their goal is to assess if you’re a good cultural fit for Firehouse Subs. Remember, they are looking for interesting candidates who are passionate and lead active, balanced lifestyles.
The key is to highlight hobbies and interests that show you have a range of life experiences and interests beyond just work.
“Some of my hobbies and interests outside of work include exercising at the gym, reading mystery novels, and volunteering at an animal shelter on weekends. Staying physically and mentally active is important to me. I find that exercising and reading help me recharge from a busy workweek. And volunteering at the animal shelter allows me to give back to the community in a meaningful way. Working with animals in my free time is a passion of mine and helps balance out my more professional pursuits.”
If offered the position, when would you be available to start?
This is your chance to show them you’re raring to join the Firehouse Subs team. As hiring managers, we’re looking for candidates who are excited to dive right into the action.
The perfect answer? Be enthusiastic yet realistic.
“If offered the position, I would be thrilled to start within the next 2 weeks. in order to promptly make an impact and get up to speed on operations and procedures. My previous experience working in fast-paced retail environments has prepared me to quickly integrate into new teams and responsibilities.”
This response tells them you’re eager to get going, but understand the need to wrap up your current commitments. It’s music to their ears! They want someone whose passion for serving up subs is matched only by their level-headedness.
What are some of your key strengths that would benefit our team?
When the interviewer asks you this question, they want to gauge what you will bring to the role and team at Firehouse Subs. They are looking for candidates who have a clear understanding of their strengths and abilities, and how these attributes would be an asset for the team.
To prepare, identify 3-4 of your top strengths that match what Firehouse Subs looks for in team members, such as reliability, work ethic, positivity, and effective communication.
Maybe you’re always on time, willing to go the extra mile, and able to chat up anyone. Perfect. Now, open up and reveal them – something like this:
“Some of my key strengths that would benefit the Firehouse Subs team are my reliability, strong work ethic, and ability to communicate effectively. I show up on time, ready to work, and consistently meet or exceed the responsibilities that are asked of me. I believe in working hard and smart to achieve team and company goals. Finally, I have well-developed communication skills that allow me to connect with both co-workers and customers in a professional, friendly manner. These strengths, combined with my passion for providing great customer service, would allow me to thrive as part of the Firehouse Subs crew.”
What qualities do you look for in a manager or supervisor that would enable you to thrive?
When the interviewer asks you this question, they want to see that you can thrive under the kind of supportive, hands-on management that Firehouse Subs is known for.
As we’ve found from our experience, Firehouse Subs looks for candidates who work best under managers who will invest in their growth. For this answer, show that you’re looking for a mentor, not just a boss.
The good news is, you’ve got this. Now, take a deep breath and picture your ideal manager – someone who will inspire you and make you excited to come into work every day. Maybe they lead by example, give you honest feedback, and encourage you to make decisions on your own. Maybe they go out of their way to help you improve and advance in your role. However they support you, be authentic in your answer.
Now, put it into words:
“I thrive under a manager who leads by example, gives constructive feedback, and empowers me to work independently. Someone who values open communication and takes time to mentor their team. The kind of manager who makes you passionate about growth and challenging yourself. At Firehouse Subs, I’m looking for a leadership experience where I can learn from the best, tackle new responsibilities, and build a career – not just take orders.”
An answer like this shows you have a vision for the kind of motivating work environment and career path you want. It highlights your desire for a supportive manager who will invest in your success.
Why should we consider hiring you for this role over other candidates? What makes you the best choice?
This is your chance to show them why you’re the perfect fit for the role, so get pumped!
As pros in the hiring biz, we can tell you that the interviewer wants to see someone with the drive to thrive at Firehouse. Someone who lives and breathes serving up sandwiches with a smile. Someone who gets that team spirit is everything.
If this sounds like you, get ready to wow them with an answer like this:
“I believe I would be an excellent fit for this role at Firehouse Subs because I have over two years of experience providing fast, friendly service in the restaurant industry. Beyond my relevant experience, I have a genuine passion for serving customers and ensuring they have the best experience possible. The hustle and bustle charges me up instead of wearing me down. I’m all about keeping the good times and sandwiches rolling for every single customer. If you hire me, I’ll bring my natural sandwich-slinging enthusiasm and make it my personal mission to satisfy every customer that walks through the door. I dare anyone else to match my dedication to the delicious Firehouse Subs experience you’ve built.”
In the event a customer receives the incorrect sandwich, what steps would you take to make it right and ensure they have a positive experience?
Questions like this are asked to evaluate how you would handle a common situation that arises, and to see your customer service orientation.
As for how to answer, be honest yet enthusiastic. Share how you would take responsibility, remain calm and courteous, and take action to remedy the situation.
“First, I would sincerely apologize to the customer for the inconvenience and mistake. I would ask them what sandwich they had actually ordered and have a new one made right away. Once I have the correct sandwich, I would deliver it to the customer along with a coupon for a free sub on their next visit as a courtesy for the trouble. Mistakes happen, but it’s how you recover from them that really counts. My goal would be turning this error into an opportunity to provide outstanding service and have the customer leave with a positive experience.”
What accomplishment in your life are you most proud of so far? How did you achieve it, and what did you learn?
When the interviewer asks about your proudest accomplishment, they want to see what really makes you tick. Share a story that shows your values, skills, and motivation.
We recommend choosing an achievement that fires them up about what you’d bring to Firehouse Subs. Something that proves you’ve got the team spirit and drive to make the best sub sandwiches on the planet!
Now, let’s dish up an answer that’s sure to satisfy.
“One of my most thrilling achievements was leading my high school soccer team as captain all the way to state finals last year. At each practice, I pushed my teammates to pour their hearts onto the field, just like Firehouse Subs puts passion into every sub they make. Through team challenges, we built trust and learned to work as one. During that final match, we faced a tough opponent, but through grit and teamwork, we came out on top in overtime. The buzz from that win still gives me chills! It showed me that when people unite behind something they care about, they can make dreams come true. I hope to bring that same fire and leadership to Firehouse Subs.”
What do you know about Firehouse Subs, our brand, and our company culture? What interests you most?
This question aims to assess your knowledge of and enthusiasm for the company.
We highly recommend doing thorough research on Firehouse Subs so you can speak knowledgeably about their brand and culture. Mention Firehouse Subs’ mission to serve hearty subs, refreshing drinks, and a welcoming environment. Discuss their community involvement and the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation. Share what specifically interests you, like their focus on high-quality food and excellent customer service.
Here’s how you can respond:
“I know Firehouse Subs is all about hearty subs, community service and providing customers a welcoming place to enjoy a meal. What interests me most is Firehouse Subs’ commitment to serving the highest quality ingredients and providing exceptional service in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere. I love that Firehouse Subs supports fire departments and emergency responders in the communities they serve. The culture seems to value teamwork, hard work, and genuinely caring about customers and community. That kind of positive, service-oriented environment is exactly what I’m looking for in my next role.”
This role at Firehouse Subs can be fast-paced at times. How do you stay productive and focused during periods of increased stress or workload?
Want to impress the interviewer at Firehouse Subs? You’ll need a strategy for tackling those hectic lunch rushes. As seasoned hiring managers, we see many candidates freeze up when asked how they handle stress. Don’t be one of them!
The key is staying focused. Tune out the chaos and focus on one task at a time. Take a deep breath and give each customer your full attention. Once they’re happy, move on to the next.
For you, we suggest saying something like:
“To stay productive during busy times, I focus on one customer or one order at a time. I tune out what’s going on around me and give that person or task my full attention. Once I’ve completed it, I move on to the next. If I start to feel stressed, I take a few deep breaths to center myself. On my breaks, I try to step away for a few minutes to unwind. Having a game plan in place for high-volume situations and knowing how to avoid burnout helps me provide the best experience for every customer.”
Have you ever tried a Firehouse Sub?
This common Firehouse Subs interview question is designed to gauge your familiarity with and passion for their menu.
When the interviewer asks you this question, take the opportunity to express your genuine enthusiasm for the brand.
Talk about the experience of dining in their restaurant – the nostalgic firefighter decor, the crew cracking jokes while making your sub, that smoky aroma wafting through the air. Describe what it feels like to take a bite of hot sub perfection. How the cheese stretches, the flavors pop, and for a moment all seems right in the world.
Then share why their mission to support firefighters and public safety means so much to you. Explain that every sub you buy, you do so knowing you’re giving back to real-life heroes. That’s the real reason you eat at Firehouse Subs again and again.
“Yes, I’m a big fan of Firehouse Subs and have been a regular customer for years. The premium meats and cheeses you use are far superior to typical sub sandwiches. My personal favorite is the Hook and Ladder sub – the combination of smoked turkey breast, Virginia honey ham, and melted provolone is absolutely delicious. I also love that a portion of proceeds from every sub goes to the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation. The overall experience of enjoying a sub in your restaurant and knowing I’m supporting such an important cause really resonates with me.”
Can you provide any examples of how you have provided great customer service in the past?
This question is a great opportunity for you to showcase your customer service skills and experience. The interviewer wants to know that you can provide the friendly, helpful customer experience Firehouse Subs is known for.
We suggest you prepare a specific example that demonstrates how you went above and beyond to satisfy a customer’s needs.
Now, here is an example answer to give you an idea:
“One busy Saturday, I was working the closing shift at my old job when one of our regulars came in, ordered her usual, and left with a smile. A few minutes later, she returned, frowning. I could tell something was wrong, so I greeted her right away. She pointed out that I had forgotten an ingredient in her sub. My heart sank – we had messed up her favorite order!
I sincerely apologized, thanked her for coming back, and promised we would make it right. I had my team prepare her a fresh sub with extra meat and cheese, her favorite, and brought it out to her table. I let her know I appreciate her business and loyalty as I placed a coupon for a free sub in front of her. By the time she left, I had turned that frown upside down!
Mistakes happen, but service recovery is everything. I took responsibility, stayed positive, and gave that customer a satisfying solution – and a reason to return. Experiences like that build serious loyalty and turn casual customers into die-hard fans. I know that’s the kind of care and community Firehouse Subs is known for.”
Tell me about a time you had a disagreement with a coworker. How did you handle it and make sure it didn’t impact your work?
This is your chance to show you can deal with conflict in a constructive way.
The interviewer wants to see that you can resolve conflicts in a professional manner while maintaining a positive work environment.
We know what they’re really asking – can you play nice with others? The key is to give an authentic example that shows how you navigated the situation to a win-win outcome and highlights your ability to find common ground.
One way to answer this is:
“There was a time when a coworker and I disagreed over how to arrange the sandwiches in the display case to maximize sales. I suggested grouping similar subs together, while my coworker thought arranging by price was better. Rather than arguing, we decided to test both methods to determine which was most effective. After a week, we reviewed the sales data together and found that grouping similar subs actually increased sales. My coworker agreed to implement that strategy going forward. By focusing on facts and data instead of opinions, we were able to have a constructive conversation and find a solution that benefited the whole team.”
Speak genuinely about a time you turned a disagreement into an opportunity for growth. Focus on the solution, not the conflict, and you’ll convey why you’re the perfect addition to their team.
What hours are you available and willing to work, including weekends?
This question is the interviewer’s way of making sure you understand what you’re signing up for. Firehouse Subs is open late and on weekends, so they need team members who are willing to work when the subs are calling!
When asked about your availability, paint a picture of someone eager to roll up their sleeves.
Say something like:
“My schedule is wide open and I’m ready to take on any shift you need. Mornings or nights, weekends or weekdays – I’ll be there. I didn’t apply to Firehouse Subs to work 9 to 5! I’m passionate about the restaurant industry and willing to put in the hours to become a top-notch team member. On a Friday night when the line is out the door, you can count on me to keep the subs coming. I’m in this for the long haul and ready to work my way up, even if that means staying late to mop floors or coming in early to prep veggies.”
An enthusiastic response like that will make you a front-runner. The hiring manager wants to know they can rely on you when the heat is on. Show them you have the motivation and dedication to thrive in a fast-paced work environment. Talk about the opportunity to gain valuable experience, advance your career, and become an integral part of the team. Your flexibility and can-do attitude will seal the deal.
Do you have reliable transportation to get you to and from work each day?
When the Firehouse Subs interviewer asks if you have reliable transportation, they really want to know one thing: can they count on you to show up for your shifts, on time, every single day? Don’t panic – this is your chance to prove you’re as dependable as they come.
We know how much is riding on this interview. As hiring managers, we can tell you that one of the biggest red flags is an employee who frequently calls out or shows up late. Firehouse Subs values punctuality and consistency. Show them that’s exactly what they’ll get with you!
“Of course I have reliable transportation – my dependable set of wheels has gotten me to work on schedule for years without issues. Punctuality and great attendance are must-haves in my book. If you hire me, you’ll never have to worry about me calling out or strolling in late. I’ll be here, ready to go, whenever my shift starts.”
An enthusiastic, confident answer like this tells the interviewer you’re 100% reliable from day one.
Questions to Ask the Interviewer in Firehouse Subs Interview
When your Firehouse Subs interviewer asks if you have any questions for them, this is your opportunity to demonstrate your enthusiasm and interest in the role, company, and team. Come prepared with thoughtful questions that show you’ve done your research.
As a candidate, this is also your chance to assess if the role and company culture are the right fit for you. The questions you ask the interviewer should aim to clarify details about the position, establish a connection, and reaffirm your interest. Your questions can make a strong impression, so spend time crafting them in advance.
Here are some suggested questions to ask your Firehouse Subs interviewer:
- What does a typical day in this role at Firehouse Subs look like?
- What are the key priorities and responsibilities of a team member at Firehouse Subs?
- What are some of the challenges of this position?
- What does success look like in the first 3-6 months?
- What do you enjoy most about working for Firehouse Subs?
- What is the culture like at this Firehouse Subs location?
- How would you describe your management and leadership style? What is the culture of your team?
- What attracted you to Firehouse Subs? How long have you been with the company?
- Where do you see opportunities for growth within the role and department over the next 2-3 years?
- What skills and experiences would prepare me for a leadership position at Firehouse Subs?
- Does Firehouse Subs encourage internal mobility? Are there opportunities for career growth?
- How does Firehouse Subs support ongoing training and education for employees?
- What do you consider to be Firehouse Subs’ competitive advantage in the industry?
- Could you describe the training program for this role? What does onboarding look like?
- What are some of the ways Firehouse Subs gives back to the local community?
- Does Firehouse Subs have any exciting new products or initiatives on the horizon?
- Do you have any concerns or hesitations about my qualifications for this role?
- Is there anything else I can answer for you today?
- What is your timeline for next steps in the interview process?
- When can I expect to hear from you?
Firehouse Subs Hiring Process
So you have an interview lined up at Firehouse Subs—congratulations! To prepare you for what to expect, here is a breakdown of Firehouse Subs’ typical hiring process based on experiences from real candidates.
After you submit an application, either online or in-person, you can expect a call back for an interview within 3-5 business days typically.
The interview is usually casual, lasting 10-20 minutes, and conducted by the general manager or store owner. This is your chance to show off your enthusiasm for the brand and your friendly customer service skills.
You may also be asked to take a short menu quiz during the interview to test your familiarity with the menu items. But don’t worry, as long as you’ve reviewed the menu ahead of time, you’ll do great.
The good news is, many candidates get hired on the spot or receive an offer phone call within a couple of days of their interview. Once hired, you’ll fill out some quick new hire paperwork to make it official.
Before hitting the floor, new hires go through a training orientation which includes watching some training videos. You’ll receive your Firehouse Subs t-shirts and any other necessary uniform items.
Most candidates start work right away or within a week of their interview, with schedules determined during the hiring process.
As you can see, Firehouse Subs aims to move candidates through the hiring process quickly and efficiently.
Firehouse Subs Interview Tips
Go into your Firehouse Subs interview with confidence in who you are and what you can offer. Be authentic by sharing relevant experiences that showcase your abilities, but also focus on your desire to learn and grow. Ask thoughtful questions about the work, training, and company culture to demonstrate your genuine interest. Remember, Firehouse Subs values energetic and dedicated team players – so bring your positivity and smile.
What to Wear to Firehouse Subs Interview
When getting ready for your interview at Firehouse Subs, take cues from their company dress code.
The dress code at Firehouse Subs is a company-provided shirt and visible name tag, black work pants (which can be jeans, provided they are not ripped, torn, or disheveled), a black hat or visor, and non-slip black shoes. Hair needs to be consistently pulled back, and certain locations disallow acrylic or fake nails. The acceptance of piercings and visible tattoos is contingent upon the restaurant owner/manager’s discretion, and they are generally prohibited.
Choosing attire that fits their standards shows you understand and appreciate their culture.
For a crew member, team member, or cashier role, opt for smart casual or standard business casual. A nice pair of slacks or chinos, polo or button-down shirt and loafers will strike the right balance of style and comfort. First impressions matter greatly for entry-level positions so aim for neat, clean and tucked in.
For an assistant or shift manager interview, elevate your look with a full business casual ensemble. Choose dress pants, an ironed dress shirt with a tie or blouse, and dress flats. A lightweight blazer is optional. Projecting a polished yet understated appearance shows you understand the semi-formal expectations for leadership roles.
For corporate roles, go for true business formal with a dark business suit, conservative tie, dress shoes, and belt. Show you can shift effortlessly into the corporate requirements with minimal fuss.
Conclusion
You now have insightful responses to prepare for the most common interview questions asked at Firehouse Subs. With this knowledge, you can walk into your interview confident and ready to impress the hiring manager. You have what it takes to land this job – just believe in yourself, think positively, and let your passion for the work shine through. Even if things don’t work out with this particular position, keep putting one foot in front of the other – the right opportunity for you is out there waiting to be found.
Don’t stop applying to other places just because you have an interview lined up. Keep sending out applications and resumes, especially to similar establishments like Jersey Mike’s, Jimmy John’s, Which Wich, Subway, Potbelly, and Capriotti’s. The job market is competitive, so cast a wide net.
While Firehouse Subs would be lucky to have you, another company may end up being an even better fit. Stay determined and persistent. With the right mindset and preparation, you will land a great job. Believe in yourself, learn from any rejections, and keep your head high. The perfect role for you is out there, so get out there and seize it! Success and new beginnings await.
