Top 25 Subway Interview Questions & Answers

1. Introduction

If you’re preparing for a job interview, understanding the types of questions you might face is crucial. This article delves into subway interview questions to help you get ready for your next step towards a career with the well-known fast food chain. Whether you’re applying for an entry-level position or a management role, these insights will give you a head start on what to expect and how to present your best self.

2. The Subway Brand and Interview Process

Subway is a global leader in the fast food industry, particularly renowned for its submarine sandwiches and salads. The company prides itself on offering healthier alternatives to traditional fast food, and as such, looks for individuals who can reflect its values and dedication to customer satisfaction. When interviewing for a position at Subway, you’ll encounter questions that test your customer service acumen, team cooperation, and ability to adapt to a fast-paced food service environment.

Interviews at Subway often focus on real-life scenarios to assess how candidates deal with challenges faced in the store, from handling customer complaints to ensuring food safety. Being prepared to discuss your work experience, adaptability, and personal attributes that align with Subway’s ethos is key to success.

3. Subway Interview Questions

1. Can you tell us a little about yourself and your previous work experience? (Introduction & Experience)

How to Answer:
When answering this question, it’s important to give a brief overview of who you are, focusing on aspects that are relevant to the job for which you’re interviewing. Include a bit about your personality or interests that may be pertinent to the role, and then transition into your work experience. Be sure to highlight any customer service or food industry experience that you have, as well as any achievements or responsibilities that may set you apart from other candidates.

My Answer:
Certainly! I’m an enthusiastic and friendly individual with a passion for providing excellent customer service. I’ve always been interested in the food industry and enjoy working in fast-paced environments. Over the past few years, I’ve gained valuable experience working in retail and hospitality. For instance, at my last job at a local cafe, I was responsible for managing orders, maintaining a clean and organized workspace, and ensuring customer satisfaction. There, I learned a lot about the importance of speed and efficiency, as well as how to handle cash transactions and use point-of-sale systems. I also had the opportunity to lead a small team during the morning rush, which taught me a lot about teamwork and leadership in a busy setting.

2. Why do you want to work at Subway? (Company Interest)

How to Answer:
Express your genuine interest in the brand and the position. Research Subway’s mission, values, and any recent news or initiatives that resonate with you. It’s also a good idea to mention how working at Subway aligns with your career goals or interests.

My Answer:
I want to work at Subway because I admire the company’s commitment to providing fresh, customizable meal options and its focus on healthier fast-food alternatives. I’ve always been a fan of Subway’s sandwiches and the brand’s emphasis on customer satisfaction. Additionally, I appreciate Subway’s ongoing efforts in sustainability and community involvement, which are values I hold dearly. Working here aligns with my passion for the food service industry and my desire to grow professionally in an environment that values quality and innovation.

3. How would you handle a situation where a customer is unsatisfied with their order? (Customer Service)

How to Answer:
In customer service scenarios, the interviewer is looking for your ability to maintain a positive attitude, your problem-solving skills, and your dedication to ensuring customer satisfaction. Structure your response to show empathy, active listening, and a positive resolution.

My Answer:
If a customer is unsatisfied with their order, I would handle the situation by following these steps:

• Listen Carefully: I would give the customer my full attention, listening to their concerns without interrupting, to fully understand the issue.
• Empathize: I would acknowledge their dissatisfaction and empathize with their experience to let them know I’m taking their concerns seriously.
• Apologize and Offer a Solution: I would apologize for any inconvenience caused and immediately offer a solution, such as replacing the incorrect item or offering a refund if appropriate.
• Follow-Up: After resolving the issue, I would make sure that the customer is satisfied with the outcome and ask if there’s anything else I can do to improve their experience.

This approach ensures that the customer feels heard and valued, and it helps to maintain Subway’s reputation for excellent customer service.

4. Explain how you would manage a busy lunch rush. (Time Management & Prioritization)

How to Answer:
Discuss your ability to stay organized, prioritize tasks, and work efficiently under pressure. Highlight any specific strategies or techniques you use to manage high-stress situations.

My Answer:
To manage a busy lunch rush effectively, I would:

• Prepare in Advance: Ensure all necessary ingredients are stocked and prepped before the rush begins.
• Stay Organized: Keep the work area clean and organized to maximize efficiency.
• Prioritize Tasks: Focus on completing one order at a time while being mindful of the queue to ensure a smooth flow.
• Communicate with Teammates: Maintain clear communication with colleagues to coordinate tasks and assist each other when needed.
• Stay Calm and Positive: Keep a positive attitude to create a pleasant atmosphere for both customers and staff.

5. Describe your approach to maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in the workplace. (Hygiene & Safety Standards)

How to Answer:
Share your understanding of hygiene and safety standards in the food service industry. Explain how you ensure that these standards are consistently met in your daily work routine.

My Answer:
My approach to maintaining cleanliness and hygiene in the workplace is comprehensive and aligns with health regulations and Subway’s own standards. Here’s how I ensure a clean environment:

• Regular Cleaning Schedule: Follow a strict cleaning schedule that includes sanitizing surfaces, sweeping and mopping floors, and washing utensils regularly.
• Personal Hygiene: Practice good personal hygiene, such as regular handwashing, wearing gloves when handling food, and keeping my uniform clean.
• Food Safety Practices: Adhere to proper food handling procedures to prevent cross-contamination, including using separate cutting boards for different types of ingredients.
• Waste Management: Properly dispose of waste and organize recycling to keep the workspace tidy and eco-friendly.
• Regular Monitoring: Continuously monitor the cleanliness of the workspace throughout the shift and address any issues immediately.

Task	Frequency	Responsible
Sanitize surfaces	After each use	All staff
Sweep and mop floors	Daily	Closing staff
Wash utensils	After each use	All staff
Check food temperatures	Every 4 hours	Shift leader
Refill hand sanitizers	As needed	Opening staff

Maintaining these hygiene and safety standards is crucial not only for the health and safety of customers and staff but also for maintaining Subway’s reputation for quality and cleanliness.

6. How do you ensure accuracy when preparing multiple orders simultaneously? (Attention to Detail)

How to Answer:
Employers are looking for candidates who can multitask effectively while maintaining high-quality service. Your answer should demonstrate your ability to be organized, detail-oriented, and efficient. It’s beneficial to mention specific strategies or systems you use to keep track of different orders.

My Answer:
To ensure accuracy when preparing multiple orders simultaneously, I employ a variety of strategies:

• Organization: I arrange ingredients and tools in a consistent pattern so that everything is in its rightful place, which minimizes the chance of making mistakes.
• Checklists: For complex orders, I sometimes use a checklist to ensure that each order is completed with all its specific requirements.
• Repeat Orders: As I prepare orders, I repeat the customer’s request to myself to keep focused on what’s needed for each sandwich.
• Prioritization: I prioritize orders based on their complexity and the time they were placed to ensure a smooth workflow.
• Visual Cues: I use the ticket system to keep track of orders and often set up visual cues to differentiate between similar orders.

By employing these methods, I maintain a high level of accuracy even when the store is busy.

7. Are you comfortable working in a team environment? Can you provide an example? (Teamwork & Collaboration)

How to Answer:
A teamwork-focused answer should reflect your ability to collaborate, communicate effectively, and contribute positively to a group setting. Providing a specific example is key to illustrate your teamwork skills in action.

My Answer:
I am very comfortable working in a team environment and believe that collaboration can lead to superior results. For example, at my previous job, our team was tasked with catering a large event. We had to prepare and serve 200 sandwiches within a short time frame. To manage this efficiently, we split the tasks based on each team member’s strengths – some focused on customer service, while others concentrated on food preparation.

• We maintained open communication to handle the workflow and help each other out when necessary.
• We held a brief meeting before the event to assign roles and discuss the game plan.
• During the event, we worked in sync, like an assembly line, with each person responsible for a specific part of the sandwich-making process.

This strategy was highly effective, allowing us to serve all the guests quickly and without compromising on the quality of the food or service.

8. Describe a time when you had to deal with a difficult coworker. How did you handle it? (Conflict Resolution)

How to Answer:
When discussing conflict resolution, it’s important to focus on your ability to handle the situation professionally and constructively. Your answer should convey empathy, understanding, and a willingness to find a mutually beneficial solution.

My Answer:
At my previous job, I worked with a coworker who had a very different work style than mine, which often led to disagreements on how tasks should be completed. The coworker was resistant to trying new methods, which sometimes slowed down our workflow.

• Conflict Identification: I first made sure to understand the coworker’s perspective and identify the root cause of the conflict.
• Private Discussion: I approached my coworker privately and discussed our differences in a respectful manner, focusing on how we could improve our collaboration for the benefit of the team.
• Compromise & Solutions: Together, we compromised by agreeing to a trial period for new methods while keeping some of the tried-and-true practices in place.
• Follow-up: We regularly checked in with each other to discuss what was working and what wasn’t, which helped us to continue improving our teamwork.

9. How would you describe excellent customer service? (Customer Service Standards)

Excellent customer service is the cornerstone of any successful food service establishment. It can be described as follows:

• Promptness: Serving customers in a timely manner, acknowledging their presence as soon as they enter, and ensuring that their orders are taken and prepared quickly.
• Friendliness: Greeting customers with a smile, using polite language, and maintaining a positive demeanor throughout their visit.
• Attention to Customer Needs: Listening carefully to customers’ requests, asking clarifying questions when necessary, and catering to special needs or dietary restrictions.
• Professionalism: Handling all interactions with customers professionally, including when dealing with complaints or issues.
• Going Above and Beyond: Occasionally exceeding customer expectations by offering samples, remembering regular customers’ preferences, or providing small acts of kindness that enhance the customer experience.

10. What steps would you take if you noticed a colleague violating food safety protocols? (Food Safety & Compliance)

How to Answer:
Your answer should demonstrate a commitment to food safety and an understanding of the appropriate steps to take when a violation occurs. Describe the actions you would take in a way that shows respect for your colleague while prioritizing the well-being of customers.

My Answer:

Step	Description
Observation	Confirm that a food safety protocol is indeed being violated and that it wasn’t a one-time oversight.
Direct Approach	Talk to the colleague directly and privately, reminding them of the correct protocol.
Education	Offer to help them understand the importance of the protocol and how to follow it properly.
Escalation	If the behavior continues, report the issue to a supervisor or manager to ensure it’s addressed.
Follow-up	Monitor the situation to make sure that proper food safety protocols are being maintained.

Taking these steps helps ensure the safety of the food being served and maintains the integrity of the workplace.

11. Are you familiar with the Subway menu? Can you tell us about your favorite sandwich? (Menu Knowledge)

How to Answer:
When answering this question, it’s important to show that you have taken the time to familiarize yourself with the company’s products. Showing enthusiasm for the menu and selecting a favorite sandwich to discuss can demonstrate your genuine interest in the brand. Try to mention specific ingredients or combinations that Subway offers, as this can reflect your attention to the details of the menu.

My Answer:
Yes, I am familiar with the Subway menu. I appreciate the variety it offers, which caters to different dietary needs and preferences. My favorite sandwich from the menu is the Italian B.M.T.®. I find the combination of Genoa salami, spicy pepperoni, and Black Forest ham particularly flavorful. The sandwich is even more delicious when served on Italian bread with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, green peppers, onions, and a drizzle of the Subway vinaigrette. This combination of flavors and the option to customize it with various toppings and sauces are what make the Italian B.M.T.® my go-to choice at Subway.

12. How do you handle constructive criticism? (Receptiveness to Feedback)

How to Answer:
For this question, employers are looking for a candidate’s ability to listen, learn, and improve from feedback without taking it personally. Structure your answer to show that you value feedback as a means to personal and professional growth. It’s helpful to provide a specific example of how you’ve used constructive criticism to improve your performance.

My Answer:
How I Handle Criticism:

• Listening: I make sure to listen carefully and fully understand the feedback given.
• Reflecting: I take some time to reflect on the criticism and evaluate its validity.
• Asking Questions: If something isn’t clear, I ask questions to gain more insight.
• Implementing Changes: I use the feedback to make necessary changes and improvements in my work.

Example of Handling Feedback:
In my previous role as a retail assistant, my supervisor pointed out that my interaction with customers was a bit hurried during peak hours, which might have affected their shopping experience. I took this feedback to heart, and the next time I was on the shop floor, I made a conscious effort to balance efficiency with a friendly, unhurried approach. This led to better customer satisfaction and improved my rapport with the patrons.

13. If given a leadership role, how would you motivate your team? (Leadership & Motivation)

How to Answer:
Discuss your understanding of the key principles of leadership and team motivation. Give an example of how you would apply these principles in a Subway environment or reference past experiences where you have successfully motivated a team.

My Answer:
In a leadership role, I believe motivation stems from leading by example, creating a positive work atmosphere, and recognizing individual and team accomplishments. Here’s how I would motivate my team:

• Lead by Example: I’d ensure my work ethic and attitude set a positive standard for the team to follow.
• Clear Communication: I would communicate goals and expectations clearly to avoid confusion and ensure team alignment.
• Recognition and Praise: Acknowledging hard work and successes with genuine praise and rewards can boost morale and motivation.
• Professional Growth: Encouraging professional development and providing opportunities for team members to learn new skills or take on new challenges can keep the team engaged and motivated.

Example in a Subway Environment:
If I were managing a Subway store, I would motivate my team by organizing a monthly competition for the most creative sandwich, with the winning creation being featured as a special for a day. This not only encourages creativity but also gives the team a sense of ownership and pride in their work.

14. Describe your cash handling experience and any point-of-sale systems you are familiar with. (Cash Handling & POS Systems)

How to Answer:
Provide specific details about your experience with cash handling and the POS (Point-of-Sale) systems you’ve used. Emphasize accuracy, careful handling of transactions, and your familiarity with the technology.

My Answer:
I have two years of experience working in retail, where I was responsible for handling cash transactions daily. During this time, I became proficient in using POS systems, including Square and Shopify POS. I am meticulous in ensuring that all cash handling is done with precision to avoid any discrepancies at the close of day. Here is a summary of my experience:

Experience	POS Systems	Skills Acquired
Retail	Square, Shopify	Cash handling, transaction processing
Food Service	NCR Aloha	Order management, inventory tracking

I also have a strong understanding of the importance of security measures when dealing with cash and am familiar with procedures for handling cash shortages or overages.

15. Can you provide an example of how you have contributed to a positive work environment in the past? (Positive Attitude & Team Contribution)

How to Answer:
Use this opportunity to highlight your ability to work well with others and to create a positive and supportive work culture. Share a specific example that shows how you actively contributed to a team’s morale and productivity.

My Answer:
In my previous role at a coffee shop, I actively contributed to a positive work environment by:

• Encouraging teamwork: I often organized team meetings to ensure everyone was on the same page and to foster a sense of collaboration.
• Supporting my co-workers: Whenever a colleague was struggling or needed help during a rush, I made sure to step in and assist them, which helped to alleviate stress and maintain a supportive atmosphere.
• Celebrating successes: I made it a point to celebrate small victories and milestones with the team, which helped boost team morale.

Example of Positive Contribution:
One memorable instance was when we were short-staffed and facing a particularly busy day. I rallied the team with an impromptu pep talk and coordinated our efforts to work more efficiently. Additionally, I brought in homemade treats to keep spirits high throughout the day. These actions not only helped us get through the day successfully but also strengthened our bond as a team.

16. How do you maintain a fast pace without compromising the quality of the food you are preparing? (Efficiency & Quality Control)

How to Answer:
When answering this question, you should demonstrate your understanding of the importance of both speed and quality in a fast-food environment. Highlight any techniques or strategies you have used to optimize your workflow while still paying attention to the details that ensure food quality.

My Answer:
To maintain a fast pace without compromising the quality of the food preparation, I employ several strategies:

• Prioritize Tasks: I identify the tasks that can be completed quickly and the ones that require more attention to detail, prioritizing them accordingly.
• Systematic Approach: I follow a consistent routine for each type of food item to ensure that nothing is missed and quality is maintained.
• Time Management: I’m conscious of the peak hours and try to prep as much as possible during downtime so that when it gets busy, I can focus on assembling the food quickly without rushing.
• Cross-training: I make sure to be well-trained in all areas of food prep, so I can work efficiently and cover any station without a drop in quality.
• Quality Checks: I incorporate brief quality checks into my workflow, such as visually inspecting ingredients and the final product to ensure they meet standards.

By focusing on these areas, I can work swiftly while still providing customers with high-quality food.

17. How flexible is your availability, and are you able to work weekends and holidays? (Availability & Flexibility)

How to Answer:
Respond truthfully about your availability, as this will impact your potential work schedule. If you have specific constraints, it’s better to communicate them upfront. Employers appreciate candidates who can offer flexibility, especially for roles in the food service industry where weekend and holiday shifts are common.

My Answer:
I understand the demands of the food service industry, especially in a fast-paced environment like Subway. My availability is quite flexible; I can work various shifts throughout the week, including weekends. While I do have some commitments, I am generally able to work holidays as well. Here is a table detailing my availability:

Day	Availability
Monday	Open
Tuesday	After 12 PM
Wednesday	Open
Thursday	After 12 PM
Friday	Open
Saturday	Open
Sunday	Open

I’m also willing to pick up extra shifts if needed and can adjust my schedule with advance notice.

18. Have you ever had to adapt quickly to a change in a work procedure or a new policy? How did you manage? (Adaptability)

How to Answer:
Share a specific example that demonstrates your ability to adapt to change. Explain the situation, the change that occurred, and how you reacted to it. Emphasize your flexibility and positive attitude towards change.

My Answer:
At my previous job, the restaurant introduced a new point-of-sale system which was completely different from the one we were used to. I managed the transition by:

• Staying Positive: I approached the change with a positive mindset, seeing it as an opportunity to learn and improve efficiency.
• Training: I took the initiative to train on the new system both during the formal training sessions and in my own time.
• Helping Others: After getting comfortable with the new system, I helped my coworkers who were struggling, which also reinforced my own knowledge.
• Feedback: I provided constructive feedback to management about the system, which led to some tweaks that improved the user experience for the whole team.

This approach helped me to adapt quickly and maintain my performance during the transition.

19. What are your strategies for dealing with long lines and high-volume orders? (Stress Management)

How to Answer:
Discuss your methods for handling high-pressure situations without becoming overwhelmed. Mention any techniques you use to stay calm, focused, and efficient.

My Answer:
To manage long lines and high-volume orders effectively, I implement the following strategies:

• Stay Calm: I take deep breaths and maintain a composed demeanor, which helps to keep the team and customers calm as well.
• Focus on the Task: I concentrate on one order at a time to ensure accuracy and avoid feeling overwhelmed by the queue.
• Efficient Workflow: I follow a set process for making each sandwich, which increases speed and reduces the chance of errors.
• Team Communication: I communicate clearly with my team members, so we can assist each other and work synergistically.
• Anticipate Needs: I try to anticipate customer needs and questions to expedite the ordering process.

With these strategies, I can handle busy periods efficiently, ensuring customer satisfaction and reducing stress for the whole team.

20. Do you have any experience with inventory management or ordering supplies? (Inventory Management)

How to Answer:
If you have experience, describe the responsibilities you’ve had and the systems you’ve used. If you don’t have direct experience, you can talk about any transferable skills that could apply to inventory management, such as attention to detail or organizational skills.

My Answer:
Yes, I have experience with inventory management and ordering supplies from my previous role at a local cafe. My responsibilities included:

• Inventory Tracking: Regularly checking stock levels for all ingredients and supplies.
• Ordering: Placing orders with suppliers, ensuring we had the necessary items before we ran low.
• Organization: Keeping the storage area organized to make it easy to see what needed to be reordered.
• Waste Reduction: Monitoring expiration dates and usage patterns to minimize waste.

This experience taught me the importance of maintaining an efficient inventory system to ensure the business operates smoothly and cost-effectively.

21. How would you respond if a customer asked for a sandwich combination that is not on the menu? (Creativity & Problem-Solving)

How to Answer:
When answering this question, it is important to show that you understand Subway’s customer service philosophy, which is to satisfy the customer’s needs while adhering to the company’s standards. You should demonstrate creativity, flexibility, and a willingness to accommodate the customer’s request within reasonable limits. Discuss how you would work with the customer to create a satisfying experience without compromising food safety or operational guidelines.

My Answer:
If a customer asked for a sandwich combination that is not on the menu, I would first ensure that the request is within our ability to fulfill, considering the ingredients we have available. I would then explain to the customer that while we have a set menu, we are happy to accommodate custom orders to the best of our ability. I would offer suggestions based on their preferences, make sure to communicate any potential additional costs, and ensure that their unique combination meets Subway’s standards for quality and safety.

22. Are you able to perform the physical requirements of the job, such as standing for long periods and lifting supplies? (Physical Capability)

How to Answer:
It’s essential to answer honestly about your physical capabilities. If you have any limitations, it’s better to discuss them upfront and talk about how you could address them or what reasonable accommodations you may need.

My Answer:
Yes, I am able to perform the physical requirements of the job. I have prior experience working in roles that required standing for extended periods of time, and I understand the importance of maintaining proper posture and taking short breaks to avoid fatigue. Additionally, I am comfortable lifting supplies and have routinely engaged in such tasks in previous jobs. I always make sure to use proper lifting techniques to avoid injury.

23. What steps would you take if you discovered a coworker giving free food to friends? (Integrity & Honesty)

How to Answer:
This question tests your integrity and adherence to company policies. Your answer should highlight your commitment to honesty and detail the steps you would take to address the situation without making hasty assumptions.

My Answer:
If I discovered a coworker giving free food to friends, I would take the following steps:

• Assess the Situation: Confirm that what I observed is against company policy and not a misunderstanding.
• Speak to the Coworker: I would approach the coworker privately and discuss the incident, giving them a chance to explain.
• Report to Management: If the coworker’s actions were clearly against policy and they did not rectify the behavior, I would report the incident to my manager, as it is important to maintain the integrity of the workplace and follow Subway’s ethical standards.

24. Can you describe a time when you went above and beyond for a customer? (Customer Service Excellence)

How to Answer:
Reflect on a past experience where you provided exceptional service that exceeded customer expectations. Explain the situation, your actions, and the positive outcome.

My Answer:
At my previous job, a customer was in a rush and had specific dietary restrictions. She was visibly anxious about being late. I quickly helped her choose menu items that fit her dietary needs and expedited her order while ensuring the quality was up to standard. I also provided her with a complimentary beverage for her wait. She left relieved and grateful, and later emailed management to commend the service.

25. Why do you believe you would be a good fit for the team at our Subway location? (Cultural Fit & Personal Contribution)

How to Answer:
Discuss your relevant skills, experience, and personal traits that align with Subway’s values and the specific requirements of the location. Highlight why your addition would benefit the team.

My Answer:
I believe I would be a good fit for the team due to my:

• Customer Service Skills: I have extensive experience in customer-facing roles and a proven track record of satisfying customers.
• Teamwork: I am a collaborative team player and enjoy working in environments where everyone supports each other.
• Adaptability: I can quickly adjust to new situations and am comfortable with the fast pace of food service.
• Passion for Food: I have a keen interest in Subway’s commitment to fresh, healthy food choices and would love to contribute to that mission.

Skills/Attributes	Description
Customer Service	Proven ability to handle customer inquiries and resolve issues with a positive attitude.
Teamwork	Experienced in collaborative environments and contributing to a team’s success.
Adaptability	Capable of quickly adapting to change and thriving in dynamic settings.
Passion for Food	Interest in healthy eating and enthusiasm for Subway’s menu options.

4. Tips for Preparation

Before stepping into any interview, familiarizing yourself with the company’s history, mission, and values can give you a competitive edge. For a Subway interview, review the menu and understand the brand’s focus on customer service and fresh ingredients.

Role-specific preparation will vary depending on the position you’re applying for. If it’s a sandwich artist role, brush up on food safety and hygiene practices. For managerial positions, prepare to discuss leadership experiences and how you handle team coordination. Regardless of the role, practice answering common interview questions and think of anecdotes that showcase your problem-solving and teamwork skills.

5. During & After the Interview

Your demeanor during the interview is as crucial as your answers. Dress appropriately, maintain eye contact, and convey enthusiasm for the role and the brand. Subway interviewers typically look for candidates who are friendly, efficient, and capable of working in a fast-paced environment.

Avoid common missteps such as speaking negatively about past employers or appearing disinterested. Prepare a few thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer about the company culture, success measures for the role, or training opportunities; this shows your genuine interest in the position and the organization.

After the interview, send a personalized thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity and reiterate your interest in the job. If you haven’t heard back within a week or two, it’s appropriate to send a polite follow-up inquiry regarding the next steps in the hiring process.