Today, video interviews are a critical tool for appointing kitchen and front-of-house personnel in record time. In the middle of a staffing crisis, whether it’s for a wedding weekend, they sidestep the bottlenecks of face-to-face screenings.

Set up a simple yet effective process: send candidates a direct link to a Canva Video Interviews. Include a pre-shared list of questions so they can structure meaningful responses.

Focus on practical, real-world scenarios such as: How do you prioritize tasks when everything is blowing up?. Listen not just to their answers—observe their communication clarity.

Value applicants who go beyond the basics, like those who’ve trained new staff. Note examples of exceptional client service, such as adjusting a dish for an allergy without being asked.

Save the video through your platform’s recorder so your chef can give input. It allows your leadership to weigh in—even while traveling—with your HR coordinator.

Avoid vague, overused questions like "Tell me about yourself." Instead, ask focused questions such as: "What did you do when a key team member called out last minute?".

Extend an offer before the end of the business day. They demonstrate the right attitude and skill, call them with the good news and share digital paperwork. It stops qualified applicants from accepting other offers.

Video interviews reveal subtle cues—do they dress appropriately?. For guest-facing roles, demeanor matters just as much as technical skill.

Even rejected candidates deserve courtesy. Write a personalized note—even if you don’t hire them. It keeps the relationship warm and positions you as a respectful employer.

Adopting video as your primary screening tool, you accelerate onboarding. In the high-pressure hospitality industry, catering recruitment agencies speed with quality is everything.